Radek Štourač, CEO of an industrial software company in the Czech Republic, discussed his experience applying for and receiving funding from the EU SME Instrument. Some key points: 1) His company applied twice for funding, failing the first time but succeeding the second with some lessons learned. 2) Preparing a strong proposal is important - follow instructions, provide market data and competitor analyses, do an IPR study, and have others review the proposal. 3) Benefits of receiving funding included money for feasibility studies, research, hiring experts, business planning, and continuing to Phase 2 of the SME Instruments program. It also provided PR benefits for the company.