Grant eligibility checklist
A grant eligibility checklist saves the most time when it stops a bad-fit application early.
Eligibility is not a footnote. It is the first decision.
How to judge grant eligibility fit
| Check | What to ask |
|---|---|
| Applicant type | Confirm whether startups, SMEs, nonprofits, universities or consortia can apply. |
| Country and region | Check where the applicant must be registered and where the work can happen. |
| Stage and sector | Match the company maturity and field to the call. |
| Consortium rules | Check whether partners, countries or coordinators are required. |
| Cost rules | Confirm eligible and excluded costs before budget work starts. |
| Deadline and documents | Check submission method, attachments, signatures and portal access. |
Practical review order
Read rules
Start with official eligibility, deadline, cost and submission rules.
Write one sentence
Name the applicant, work, result and deadline in one sentence.
Score fit
Use the scorecard before the team writes a long proposal.
Build evidence
Collect proof that the work is needed and possible.
Review budget
Check cost categories, match funding and cash timing.
Decide
Apply, park or stop with a written reason.
Common mistakes
- Starting the narrative before eligibility is clear.
- Using pitch-deck claims where the grant asks for proof.
- Treating the portal deadline as the internal draft deadline.
- Building a budget that does not map to activities.
- Applying because the grant exists, not because the call fits.
Questions
What is grant eligibility?
Grant eligibility is the set of applicant, work, country, cost and timing rules that decide whether a proposal can be considered.
Should I write before eligibility is confirmed?
No. Write only a short work note until the basic eligibility checks are clear.
Use Yellow Grant before you write
Check fit, timing, budget and evidence before a grant application takes time away from customers, product work or fundraising.