Are you eager to launch your own business but concerned about securing funding? Ireland's start-up ecosystem offers some of Europe’s most generous business grants, with opportunities to access up to €150,000 in funding without giving up equity. This guide provides a comprehensive roadmap to obtaining start-up funding, including government-backed grants, private sector investment, and accelerator programs.
Understanding Business Grants in Ireland
Unlike business loans, start-up grants do not require repayment, making them an excellent option for new entrepreneurs. Ireland provides various funding programs to support different business types, from tech start-ups to traditional enterprises.
Government-Backed Start-Up Grants
Local Enterprise Office (LEO) Grants
Your first stop when seeking government funding should be the Local Enterprise Office (LEO), which has 31 offices nationwide. LEO grants include:
Priming Grants: Up to €150,000 for businesses in their first 18 months.
Feasibility Study Grants: Support for market research and business concept validation.
Export Marketing Grants: Up to €2,500 (ex VAT) to help microenterprises expand into international markets.
🔹 Pro Tip: Book a consultation with your LEO advisor before applying. They can recommend the best grants for your business model.
Enterprise Ireland (EI) Funding Programs
If you are aiming for global expansion, Enterprise Ireland (EI) offers substantial support. To qualify as a High Potential Start-Up (HPSU), your business should:
Create 10+ jobs within three years.
Generate €1 million+ in export sales.
Develop innovative products or services.
✅ Key Enterprise Ireland grants:
HPSU Feasibility Grant: Up to €30,000 for exploring export-oriented business ideas.
Innovation Vouchers: €10,000 worth of expert consultancy from a third-level institution.
Pre-Seed Start Fund: Up to €100,000 in investment plus mentorship for early-stage start-ups.
Specialised Grants for Entrepreneurs
Women Entrepreneurs
Ireland is committed to promoting gender diversity in business through tailored grants, including:
Women-Founded High Potential Start-Ups (HPSU): Enterprise Ireland’s customized support for women-led businesses with global ambitions.
Going for Growth: A mentorship program designed to help female entrepreneurs scale.
Rubicon (Cork): The Exxcel Programme supports women in STEM industries.
ACORNS Programme: Provides mentorship and peer support for female entrepreneurs in rural Ireland.
Regional and Rural Business Support
Atlantic Economic Corridor Funding: Financial assistance for businesses along Ireland’s western coastline.
Údarás na Gaeltachta: Grants for enterprises operating in Gaeltacht regions.
LEADER Programme: Funding for rural development initiatives.
International Entrepreneurs
If you are a non-EEA entrepreneur, Ireland offers specialised support:
Start-up Entrepreneur Programme (STEP): Provides a visa and financial support for those with at least €50,000 in funding.
Enterprise Ireland Pre-Investment Support: EI helps international start-ups expand in Ireland.
Private Sector Start-Up Funding & Accelerators
In addition to government grants, private investors and start-up incubators can help with funding, mentorship, and networking.
NDRC: Supports tech-driven start-ups with global growth potential.
Furthr (formerly Dublin BIC): Offers pre-seed funding and consultancy services.
Business Innovation Centres (BICs): Provide office space, mentorship, and funding advice to help businesses become investor-ready.
Social Welfare Support for Entrepreneurs
If you’re transitioning from unemployment to entrepreneurship, you may be eligible for welfare-backed start-up support:
Back to Work Enterprise Allowance (BTWEA): Allows those on Jobseeker’s Benefit to retain social welfare payments for up to two years.
Short-Term Enterprise Allowance (STEA): Supports those receiving Jobseeker’s Benefit while they start a business.
Navigating the Application Process
Securing start-up funding requires preparation. Follow this structured approach:
Application Timeline
Research funding options 3-6 months in advance.
Gather required documentation 2-4 weeks before submission.
Expect 6-12 weeks for approval and 4-6 weeks for fund disbursement.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
❌ Incomplete applications – double-check your documents.
❌ Poor business projections – provide realistic financial goals.
❌ Ignoring sustainability – outline a long-term plan beyond initial funding.
Tips for Maximising Your Grant Success
✔️ Thorough Research – Some grants can be combined.
✔️ Prepare Key Documents – Have a business plan and financial forecasts ready.
✔️ Register Your Company – Many grants require a registered business.
✔️ Build Connections – Engage with business support agencies early.
✔️ Monitor Deadlines – Many funding programs have specific application windows.
Start Your Funding Journey Today!
📌 Action Plan:
✅ Register your company.
✅ Identify grants that match your business type.
✅ Prepare and submit strong grant applications.
✅ Work with experts to ensure compliance.
💡 Need expert guidance? Contact our team for business registration assistance and funding strategies to get your start-up off the ground successfully!
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