Getting approval for a KOSGEB application requires not only a detailed project plan but also complete and accurate documentation at the time of submission. Although the institution has many eligibility conditions, preparing the required documents correctly is especially important. Attention to these details increases the likelihood of project approval.
What to Watch for in KOSGEB Applications
KOSGEB applications proceed through two distinct tracks, and applicants should apply according to the route that suits them. Different grant amounts are offered for people who have never owned a business before and for those who already run a business and want to expand. If you do not yet have a business and want to bring your idea to life, you should apply for entrepreneur support. If you already have an established business with employees and annual turnover, you should apply under the SME (KOBİ) track.
Before applying for new entrepreneur support, it is useful to review which project types the institution funds. It is important to know that KOSGEB does not support every type of business or project. Projects are funded only when the business activity aligns with the officially supported business categories and is expected to make a positive economic contribution and meet market demand. Once you confirm your project fits the eligible categories, you must participate in KOSGEB’s mandatory training programs. The training consists of four main parts. The first covers entrepreneurial aptitude and aims to help applicants develop their business idea properly. It also addresses basic business concepts, workplace discipline, business types, and related financial responsibilities. In addition, topics such as business plan components, financial structuring, and business models are covered. After completing these trainings successfully, applicants become eligible to submit their KOSGEB application.
Applications by Business Owners
Business owners applying to KOSGEB must likewise ensure their activity is listed among the supported business types. Grants are not available for activities that are prohibited or otherwise excluded from support. If your business sector appears on the list of supported activities, you can apply to KOSGEB, provided you have no outstanding tax debts and you hold active membership in the relevant professional chambers. Business owners can receive support in areas such as research and development, general support, loan interest subsidies, entrepreneurship support, collaboration and consortium projects, and thematic projects. Before submitting an application, reviewing previously funded sample projects in the same area is recommended.
Documents Required for a KOSGEB Application
Application documents for KOSGEB are as important as the project itself. Complete and accurate documentation increases the chances of receiving a grant.
Accordingly, you should ensure the following:
- Apply within the announced deadlines for the relevant programs,
- Prepare and organize the documents requested by the program,
- Provide course participation certificates when the grant requires completion of a training course,
- Ensure that the applicant has not owned a business in the relevant sector within the past year when applying as an entrepreneur,
- Do not submit the same project to another KOSGEB center; follow the rule that a project should be presented to only one center at a time.
Documents requested at the payment stage of the grant typically include:
- Signature declaration for the workplace,
- Application form signed by the entrepreneur,
- Invoices or proforma invoices for all items listed in the approved project that have been purchased,
- If the applicant is eligible for more than 60% support due to disability status or as a relative of a martyr, official documents proving the disability rate or kinship to a martyr,
- Detailed documentation about the project location such as lease agreement or title deed for the premises where the business will operate.
When all documents are complete and accurate, KOSGEB’s review process will proceed and, if successful, grant payments will be approved.