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Every Day Matters in Your RTH‑TC Application: The Hidden Cost of Delay
If you’re planning to hire research talent under the RTH‑TC scheme, please note your ideal candidate won’t wait for your application to be approved, and in most cases, you’ll need to hire them before the approval comes through. With that said, every month of delay costs you at least $20,000 + MPF.
This is why timing isn’t just important. It’s critical.
The Part Most Companies Get Wrong
Many companies think it’s enough to simply “identify” a suitable candidate before submitting the RTH‑TC application. WRONG, big mistake!
It's critical to prove that your selection was made through an open, fair, and unbiased process and in the apporieate sequence. If you can’t demonstrate that, your application is at risk — even if you have the best invention and did everything else right.
What You MUST Document
To protect your application, you need evidence. Real, timestamped, verifiable evidence.
Here’s what you should prepare:
Screenshots of your job posting, with the dates clearly visible
Records of all applications, including when they were received
Interview notes and timelines
A clear record of when the candidate was selected
These simple steps can be the difference between approval and a six‑month setback.
The Hidden Danger: You Won’t Know Immediately
The application process doesn’t give you instant feedback. If something is wrong with your documentation, you won’t find out on day one. So, when would you know? You’ll find out three months later, when your application is rejected.
At that point, your only option is to re‑submit — and that’s another three months of waiting. By then, you’ve lost half a year, i.e. $20,000 x 6 months = $120, 000, and your talent may have moved on, and your project budget and timeline are blown apart.
The Bottom Line
A delayed application doesn’t just cost money. It costs momentum, talent, and opportunity.
If you’re preparing an RTH‑TC submission, treat your documentation as seriously as your hiring decision. The program rewards fairness and transparency — but only if you can prove it.
I hope this helps you avoid the most common mistake and gives you clarity on how to prepare a strong application. If you’re still unsure about your documentation, timelines, or selection process, scheduling a consulting session can save you months of frustration — and protect your funding.
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