Local Enterprise grants in Ireland

Starting and growing a business can be a challenging journey, but the Local Enterprise Office (LEO) provides valuable support to entrepreneurs and small businesses in Ireland. One of the key resources available through the LEO is a variety of grants designed to assist businesses at different stages of their development. This article outlines the available grants from the Local Enterprise Office and how they can benefit your business.

1. Feasibility Study Grant

The Feasibility Study Grant is aimed at assisting businesses in investigating the viability of a new product, process, or service. This grant covers costs related to market research, prototype development, consultancy fees, and other expenses incurred during the feasibility study phase. The goal is to support entrepreneurs in making informed decisions before committing significant resources to their projects. Typically, this grant can cover up to 50% of the costs, with a maximum allowable grant of €15,000.

2. Priming Grant

The Priming Grant is intended for micro-enterprises in their first 18 months of operation. This grant supports the start-up costs associated with setting up a new business, including capital expenditures like equipment, fit-out of premises, and marketing costs. Eligible businesses can receive up to 50% of the investment or employment costs, with a maximum grant amount of €150,000. This grant helps new businesses establish a strong foundation and begin their growth journey.

3. Business Expansion Grant

For businesses looking to scale, the Business Expansion Grant provides financial support for growth-related activities. This grant can be used for capital investment, employee recruitment, marketing, and other expansion-related expenses. Similar to the Priming Grant, the Business Expansion Grant offers up to 50% of the eligible costs, with a maximum grant amount of €150,000. This grant is particularly beneficial for businesses ready to expand their operations, enter new markets, or develop new products.

4. Online Trading Voucher

The Online Trading Voucher is designed to help small businesses enhance their online presence and capabilities. With the increasing importance of e-commerce, this grant supports the development or improvement of business websites, including adding e-commerce functionality and digital marketing strategies. The voucher provides up to €2,500, covering 50% of eligible costs. This grant is an excellent opportunity for businesses to tap into the online market and boost their digital footprint.

5. Technical Assistance for Micro-Exporters (TAME) Grant

The TAME Grant supports micro-enterprises looking to explore and develop export markets. This grant covers costs such as trade show participation, translation services, and international marketing. The goal is to assist businesses in expanding their reach beyond the local market and increasing their export sales. The TAME Grant provides up to 50% of the costs, with a maximum grant amount of €2,500. This grant is ideal for businesses aiming to enter the global market and grow their international customer base.

6. Lean for Micro Grant

The Lean for Micro Grant helps businesses improve their productivity and competitiveness by adopting lean business principles. This grant supports the cost of hiring a lean consultant who works with the business to identify inefficiencies and implement lean practices. The focus is on reducing waste, improving processes, and enhancing overall performance. The Lean for Micro Grant covers up to 90% of the consultancy costs, making it a valuable investment for businesses looking to optimize their operations.

The Local Enterprise Office offers a range of grants to support businesses at various stages of their development. From feasibility studies and start-up costs to expansion, online trading, and exporting, these grants provide crucial financial assistance to help businesses grow and succeed. By leveraging these grants, entrepreneurs and small business owners can access the resources they need to innovate, compete, and thrive in today’s dynamic market. If you’re a business owner in Ireland, consider exploring these grant opportunities through your Local Enterprise Office to take your business to the next level.