Swell — Resources

Swell handles the heavy lifting, though some of your time will be needed for interviews and providing key project and cost information required for the claim.

How does the process work?

At Swell, we handle everything from identifying the right funding opportunities to managing the application process, ensuring you secure the support your business needs. We manage submissions and liaise with government bodies, so you can focus on your business while we do the heavy lifting.

Is my business eligible?

Assessing your eligibility for government funding can be a complex exercise. We’ve built guide to help you establish whether R&D incentives could be for you. Alternatively, contact us and we’ll take a deep dive into your business and projects to explore what options may be available.

RDTI

How can Swell increase my chances of a successful R&D tax incentive claim?

Swell increases your chances of a successful R&D tax incentive claim by ensuring your application is robust, compliant, and fully aligned with eligibility criteria. We handle the complex process, from gathering the right information to liaising with government bodies, making sure every detail is covered to maximise your claim's success. Read how we helped New Ground Coffee secure their R&D tax credit.

Case Studies

What is the R&D Loss Tax Credit, and how does it work?

The R&D Loss Tax Credit allows eligible loss-making businesses to cash out their tax losses on R&D activities, up to 28% of eligible expenditure. Click below to find out more.

About RDLTC

What types of expenses can be claimed under R&D incentives?

Eligible costs can include expenditure directly related to R&D activities, such as employee wages for R&D staff, contractor costs, materials and consumables, software development costs, overheads related to R&D projects, and depreciation on assets used in performing R&D.

How long does it take to receive my tax credit after applying?

Once fully submitted, the timeline for receiving your tax credit typically varies from 2-4 months but can take longer depending on your business and the nature of your claim. Swell ensures a smooth progression through the necessary government assessment process and will liaise with Callaghan Innovation and/or IRD where required.

What is the due date for submitting an R&D Tax Incentive Application?

There are two key application milestones: General approval applications are due by the 7th day of the 2nd month following the end of your income year. For businesses with a standard balance date of 31 March, the due date is 7 May. Once you have general approval, the deadline for submitting your Supplementary Return is within 30 days after the due date of your income tax return. Contact us to ensure that you don’t unnecessarily miss the submission deadline.

Get in touch

What is the process of applying for the R&D tax incentive?

It starts with an in-depth assessment of your business to determine eligibility. We’ll then gather detailed information about your R&D activities and expenditure, preparing a compliant and robust application. Our team manage the entire submission process, liaising with government regulators, ensuring a smooth progression until you secure the funding.

What is the R&D tax incentive, and how can my business benefit from them?

The R&D tax incentive (RDTI) provides eligible businesses with a 15% tax credit on eligible R&D expenditure, which can either reduce income tax or be refunded as cash, helping businesses innovate and grow. Click the button below to find out more.

About RDTI

Grant Funding

What happens after a grant is secured?

Aside from celebrating (woo!), once the grant is secured, you must follow the agreed project plan and submit regular reports to the funder. Swell can help you manage project tracking, reporting, and compliance to ensure smooth progress.

What documentation is required for a grant application?

Grant agencies typically require financial statements and forecasts to ensure project viability. Depending on the project, you may also need business plans, marketing strategies, or sector endorsements.

Are there costs associated with applying for grants?

Government agencies don’t charge fees to apply for grants. However, you may incur costs for research or legal support. Swell's fees for supporting you with your application are transparent and based on your specific needs.

What’s the best type of grant to apply for?

The best grant is one that not only aligns with your project, but with your overall business objectives. Funding required, project timelines, capital raising, project partners, government priorities, and market conditions should also be considered when choosing the right grant. If the right fund exists, we’re best placed to guide you on what grant to apply for, and when.

What is the process for applying for a grant?

Every grant application process is different, depending on the funding agency and project complexity. A typical process may involve an expression of interest, a full application, a business case, and will often require a comprehensive project budget and milestone report among other supporting documents. Fear not, as this is our bread and butter and we’re here to help!

How much of my time is required?

While applying for grants requires time, Swell works closely with you to manage the heavy lifting. We recognise that you’ve got a business to run, so our role is to maximise your chance of success whilst working quietly for you in the background.

How long does it take to secure a grant?

The timeline varies by grant, with smaller grants typically taking 2-6 months and larger, more complex grants potentially taking over a year. For example, a $500k grant might take 2 - 3 months, while a $4M+ application could take 12+ months.

How do I know my business is eligible for a grant?

Correctly assessing your eligibility for grant funding requires a thorough understanding of the grant and how it may align with your project and business. Swell takes the time to understand both your company and project to determine eligibility. If we believe you are not eligible for a grant, we’ll be upfront and guide you on what’s needed for a successful application.

Funding

Overview

RDTI

RDLTC

Grants

Eligibility

Why Swell

Case Studies

Resources

Team

Contact

Resources

Cracking the Code: Why R&D Claims Feel Daunting for Manufacturers, and How to Get It Right

How to Successfully Leverage Grant Funding

Busting Myths About Accessing R&D Tax Incentives

R&D Tax Incentives: Why Kiwi Manufacturers Are Missing Out

Unlock Business Growth Without Giving Away Equity: Understanding Non-Dilutive Funding

Sustainable Food and Fibre Futures: Insights for 2025

FAQs

How much does it cost?

How much of my time is required?

How does the process work?

Is my business eligible?

How can Swell increase my chances of a successful R&D tax incentive claim?

What is the R&D Loss Tax Credit, and how does it work?

What types of expenses can be claimed under R&D incentives?

How long does it take to receive my tax credit after applying?

What is the due date for submitting an R&D Tax Incentive Application?

What is the process of applying for the R&D tax incentive?

What is the R&D tax incentive, and how can my business benefit from them?

What happens after a grant is secured?

What documentation is required for a grant application?

Are there costs associated with applying for grants?

What’s the best type of grant to apply for?

What is the process for applying for a grant?

How much of my time is required?

How long does it take to secure a grant?

How do I know my business is eligible for a grant?

If you’re making waves in your industry, we’d love to talk.