KOSGEB 65 Thousand TL Support Guide

KOSGEB and Entrepreneurship Ecosystem

The Small and Medium Enterprises Development Organization of Turkey (KOSGEB), operating with the aim of supporting the development of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and entrepreneurs, fostering innovation, and increasing competitiveness in Turkey, makes significant contributions to the business world through its various support programs. Among these programs, especially non-repayable grants offer a great opportunity for entrepreneurs looking to start a new business or expand an existing one. The recently announced 65 thousand TL non-repayable grant is also being evaluated within this scope and is eagerly followed by entrepreneurs.

The Importance of Non-Repayable Grants

Non-repayable grants, as the name suggests, are financial aids provided by KOSGEB to entrepreneurs or SMEs who meet certain conditions, without requiring repayment. These grants are vitally important, especially for start-up businesses to meet their capital needs, invest in new technologies, or carry out critical activities such as market research. By alleviating the financial burden on businesses, this model encourages them to pursue riskier but potentially promising projects, serving as a significant leverage for sustainable economic growth. A non-repayable grant of 65 thousand TL can particularly help micro and small businesses overcome financial obstacles they might encounter when taking their first steps or implementing a specific project.

Who Can Apply for the 65,000 TL Grant? General Criteria

To apply for KOSGEB's support programs, certain general conditions must typically be met. Although a specific program name for the 65 thousand TL grant is not mentioned, KOSGEB's general application and eligibility criteria serve as a guide for such grants. Generally, the segments that can benefit from KOSGEB support are:

• New Entrepreneurs: Individuals who have completed KOSGEB Entrepreneurship Training and wish to start their own business. Programs offering positive discrimination for young, women, disabled, or veteran entrepreneurs may be available.
• Existing SMEs: Businesses registered in the KOSGEB database, qualifying as SMEs, and operating in specific sectors. These businesses are generally expected to present innovative projects, conduct R&D, or possess export potential.
• Specific Sectors: KOSGEB prioritizes sectors of strategic importance or those that generate high added value. The NACE code of the applicant business must be compatible with the sector targeted by the support program.

Additional conditions may also be sought, such as applicants having no tax or SSI debts, meeting other general eligibility requirements set by KOSGEB, and not having previously received similar support from KOSGEB. The specific detailed criteria for each program are published on KOSGEB's official website.

Application Process and Points to Consider

The application process for KOSGEB grants typically involves specific steps and requires meticulous preparation. A similar approach is expected for the 65 thousand TL non-repayable grant:

1. Registration with KOSGEB and Declaration: The first step is to register with the KOSGEB database and complete the SME declaration. This process is done online through KOSGEB's e-SME system.
2. Entrepreneurship Training (For New Entrepreneurs): If you are a new entrepreneur, it is mandatory to complete traditional or advanced entrepreneurship training provided by KOSGEB or affiliated institutions. These trainings focus on developing business plan preparation skills.
3. Business Plan Preparation: The most critical step in support programs is to prepare a detailed and realistic business plan. The business plan should clearly outline the business's objectives, market analysis, financial projections, and support request. How the 65 thousand TL grant will be utilized across different items should be detailed in this plan.
4. Online Application and Project Submission: The application is made through KOSGEB's online portal, along with the prepared business plan and other necessary documents. Applications are usually opened and announced during specific periods.
5. Evaluation Process: Applications are evaluated by KOSGEB experts based on criteria such as the feasibility of the business plan, innovative aspects, employment potential, and economic contribution. Interviews may be conducted if necessary.
6. Contract and Payment: If the application is approved, a contract is signed between KOSGEB and the business, and support payments are generally made in stages after documenting expenditures in accordance with the business plan.

Before applying, it is crucial to carefully review KOSGEB's relevant program announcements and application guides to be informed about current conditions and deadlines.

Maximizing Benefits from KOSGEB Grants

To get the maximum benefit from KOSGEB grants, it is important for entrepreneurs not only to focus on financial aid but also to utilize the training, consultancy, and guidance services offered by KOSGEB. Carefully preparing the business plan, meticulously conducting market research, keeping financial projections realistic, and emphasizing the added value the project will provide to society or the sector will increase the chances of success in the application process. Furthermore, creating a sustainable business model and efficiently using the received support are critically important for the long-term success of the business.

Highlights

• KOSGEB offers non-repayable financial support to SMEs and entrepreneurs.
• The current 65,000 TL grant aims to alleviate the financial burden on businesses.
• Application generally requires registration with KOSGEB, completing Entrepreneurship Training, and submitting a detailed business plan.
• The answer to "Who can apply?" is: new entrepreneurs, existing businesses qualifying as SMEs, and firms operating in specific sectors.
• The application process includes steps such as online application, business plan evaluation, and contract signing.
• To maximize benefits from the grants, utilizing KOSGEB's training and consultancy services is important.