How Irish Business Grants Work
Irish business grants are primarily administered through Enterprise Ireland (for exporting companies with 10+ employees), Local Enterprise Offices (for small businesses with fewer than 10 employees), and IDA Ireland (for foreign direct investment). Most grants require match funding and are structured as percentage contributions to approved project costs. EU funding through Horizon Europe and structural funds adds another layer of opportunity.
Enterprise Ireland Funding
Enterprise Ireland offers a range of supports including Feasibility Study Grants (up to €35,000), Innovation Vouchers (€5,000 for collaboration with research institutions), Agile Innovation Fund (up to €300,000), and the Commercialisation Fund for university spinouts. Enterprise Ireland also provides equity investment, mentoring, and international market access support.
Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs)
LEOs are the first stop for small businesses seeking funding in Ireland. They offer Priming Grants (up to €150,000 for startups under 18 months), Business Expansion Grants (up to €150,000 for established businesses), and Technical Assistance Grants for exporting (up to €2,500). LEOs also provide free training, mentoring, and business development programs.
R&D Tax Credit
Ireland's R&D tax credit allows companies to claim a 25% tax credit on qualifying R&D expenditure, on top of the standard 12.5% corporation tax deduction. This means an effective benefit of 37.5% on qualifying spend. There is no cap on the amount that can be claimed. Qualifying activities include systematic, investigative, or experimental work in science or technology that seeks to achieve a scientific or technological advancement.
How to Apply for Irish Grants
For Enterprise Ireland funding, contact your Development Advisor or apply through the Enterprise Ireland website. For LEO grants, visit your local LEO office — there are 31 across Ireland. For R&D tax credits, file with your corporation tax return through Revenue Online Service (ROS). The Supporting SMEs website (supportingsmes.ie) helps match businesses with relevant funding programs.
Featured Ireland grants
Recently verified funding opportunities in Ireland