Alive and well in Oz.
Currently we still have significant government subsidies for solar power systems.
While I was working for Social Security via Centrelink,
a sliding scale of subsidies were paid to private job seeking companies.
One of the last jobs I hade was running The self Employment Venture Scheme 'in my region. A one time payment of $5000 was payable to people starting small business. I had to evaluate the applications. During the months I did that job I recommended none of the applications.
EG: “Have you done a business plan? No?” Then referred for [free] help from an appropriate agency. None returned with a plan.
My favourite was a bloke who wanted to supply Yabbies ( delicious fresh water crustaceans) to local restaurants. Great Idea . I just had to ask “Where will you get your yabbies” Answer ; " There is a creek which flows to the rear my house"***
***In 1989, I was in Western Australia on holiday. Came across a Marin farm on the Southwest Coast from memory. (same kind of creature) It had I think six large ponds, all protected from birds by netting. I asked the bloke how much it cost to set up and the lead time. Two Million Dollars over 5 years.