Access to Finance: Grants available to small businesses

In this session, corporate finance consultant Johnny Harte chairs a panel discussion with an accountant and a small business owner who have both secured business grants from organisations in Ireland.

Key points from the webinar

Financial support

• The Local Enterprise Office (LEO) offers a feasibility grant of up to €15,000 for initial product prototypes, market research and technical development in manufacturing and internationally traded services sectors.

• If your business is less than 18 months old, you can apply to the LEO for a priming grant of up to €150,000 (50% support). If your business is more than 18 months old, business expansion grants are available.

• Use the LEO's Trading Online Voucher Scheme for a grant of up to €2,500 to support early-stage digital investment in e-commerce infrastructure for businesses trading for at least six months.

Skills development and mentorship

• Enrol in the LEO's Start Your Own Business programme to gain confidence and support, with 50% of attendees starting a business and becoming LEO clients for further assistance.

• Consider Enterprise Ireland's New Frontiers Programme, a national entrepreneur development initiative, to learn entrepreneurial behaviour and develop your skillset.

• Access a wide range of soft supports including mentoring, training and webinars at any stage of your entrepreneurial journey for expert guidance.

Sector-specific opportunities

• Leverage the urban-rural divide by tapping into tech sector and life sciences ecosystems in bigger cities, or focus on agriculture technology and manufacturing in rural areas.

Financial planning

• Open a business bank account promptly. Banks have improved the customer journey to establish accounts within 24 hours.

• Secure working capital by initiating conversations with your local bank to kickstart your entrepreneurial journey.

Overcoming barriers

• Overcome fear by taking the first step and contacting a mentor to guide you through the process of bringing your business idea to life. 

Other finance webinars

• Cash-flow tools

• Financial planning for your business in 2023

• How to access finance and leasing

• How to apply for a start-up loan

• Securing angel investment

• Join an accelerator and get funded