If you run a small business in Ireland, you’ll know that access to funding can make a big difference, especially when trying to start or grow. Grants for small businesses in Ireland provide a vital lifeline, whether you are launching a new idea, developing new markets, or boosting employment.
Yet, the landscape can be confusing. Various government agencies, local authorities, and private organisations offer grants, each with different rules and objectives.
To help you launch or grow your enterprise, we’ve highlighted and summarised the main types of grants for small businesses in Ireland. We’ve also explained how to approach the application process and included practical tips to improve your chances of success.
What Are Business Grants?
A business grant is a sum of money awarded to a registered enterprise, be it a sole trader, company, or partnership. Grants are typically provided and administered by the government or non-profit organisations to support specific activities. Unlike loans, grants do not need to be repaid, but they usually come with strict conditions.
Small business grants are available around the world and are meant to support the development of enterprises by reducing their financial risks.
In Ireland, grants for small businesses are often used to:
- Support startup costs
- Fund capital investments
- Assist with marketing and export activities
- Promote innovation and digital transformation
- Create jobs in local communities
It’s worth noting that grants for starting a business in Ireland can be highly competitive. Many are targeted at priority sectors or regions, so as you’re developing your business idea, it’s worth researching which programmes match your profile.
Key Providers of Grants for Small Businesses
A range of organisations in Ireland offer grants tailored to small businesses and startups.
Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs)
Your Local Enterprise Office should be your first port of call when you’re looking for cash grants for Irish businesses. LEOs operate in every county and offer a wide range of funding schemes. These include:
- Priming Grants: Designed for startups that are under 18 months old
- Business Expansion Grants: Meant for existing small businesses looking to grow
- Feasibility Study Grants: Helpful for testing the viability of new products or markets
Many business grants for small businesses from government sources flow through the LEO network.
Enterprise Ireland
If your business is export-focused or operates in a high-potential sector, Enterprise Ireland offers further funding options. Grants include:
- Innovation Vouchers: Intended to help your enterprise collaborate with research institutions
- Agile Innovation Fund: Useful when you need to fast-track product development
- Export Assistance Grants: Designed to cover parts of the cost of market research and participation in international trade shows
Údarás na Gaeltachta
For businesses based in Gaeltacht areas, Údarás provides grants to promote employment and support innovation within Irish-speaking regions.
Other Sources
In addition to LEOs and Enterprise Ireland, several other grant schemes and funding supports are available to Irish small businesses.
- LEADER Grants: Available in rural areas, these Irish business grants support a wide range of community and business projects.
- Microfinance Ireland: When high street banks won’t offer loans to viable businesses, this option offers financing at competitive rates. However, this is not a grant, but a subsidised business loan.
How to Approach the Application Process
Once you’ve identified the right grant, it’s important to approach the application process with a clear strategy.
1. Understand What Grants Are Available
Before you start writing applications, invest time in research. Useful sources include your LEO, Enterprise Ireland, your local authority, and business networks.
A few practical tips:
- Always check eligibility criteria carefully
- Pay attention to deadlines, though many grants operate on a rolling or competitive call basis
- Be clear about what types of spending the grant will cover, since many grants exclude VAT or ongoing operational costs
2. Develop a Strong Business Case
Most grants require you to submit a clear plan or project outline, so it’s worth taking time to develop a strong business plan for funding that clearly communicates your goals and approach. Some grants for startups in Ireland also require cash co-funding, so be ready to show how you’ll finance the remainder of the project.
3. Focus on Outcomes
Funders want to see clear outcomes, such as:
- Jobs created
- New markets entered
- Innovative products developed
- Community impact
When writing your application, always connect your project goals with these types of outcomes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Applying for grants can be competitive, so it’s important to approach each application carefully. If you want extra support with refining your plan or budget, professional business planning services in Ireland can help you present a stronger case. Here are some common pitfalls to watch for.
Applying for the Wrong Grant
Not every grant is suitable for every Irish business. It’s a mistake to submit generic applications without first checking that your project fits the scheme’s specific goals and eligibility criteria. Always read the guidelines carefully and tailor your application accordingly.
Submitting Vague Budgets
A lack of detail in your budget can weaken your application. Funders expect well-prepared, transparent figures that clearly explain how the grant money will be used. You won’t necessarily need an accountant to create your budgets and can use low-cost cashflow templates, and remember to break down your costs and justify them with realistic assumptions.
Ignoring Reporting Requirements
Business grant funding comes with obligations. Some applicants underestimate the need for regular progress reports and financial statements. Before applying, be sure you understand what reporting will be required and that you have the capacity and resources to deliver it.
Final Thoughts
Securing grants for small businesses in Ireland takes time and effort, but it can deliver powerful benefits for your enterprise. From starting a small business to innovating within an established one, the country is home to many avenues of support. With the right approach, your next grant application could provide the momentum your business needs.
FAQs
If you’re launching a new venture, you’ll find several local and national schemes aimed at business development. These typically support early-stage companies with mentoring, funding, or training opportunities tailored to new entrepreneurs.
Yes, sole traders can apply for various supports through local enterprise offices and government-funded programmes. These often focus on business planning, marketing, and capacity-building for small businesses.
These funding programmes usually help cover costs related to sustainability initiatives. From energy efficiency improvements to waste reduction strategies, they’re designed to support greener operations for eligible businesses.
Many public and private schemes focus on innovation, employment, and market expansion. These initiatives aim to strengthen small enterprises and are often accessible through local or regional agencies.
Eligibility varies, but most programmes are open to registered businesses with a clear growth plan. Whether you’re scaling up or entering new markets, some grants specifically assist with strategic development.