Government Grants Available for Small Businesses in Ireland

If your business is less than 18 months old, the Priming Grant can cover up to 50% of costs (like equipment, marketing, and wages) up to €150,000. To test out a new business idea, the Feasibility Study Grant can give you up to €15,000 to help with research. If you want to sell online, the Trading Online Voucher offers up to €2,500 to help build or improve your website. These grants are a great way to get support as you start or grow your business.

Enterprise Ireland also offers helpful supports for small businesses in Ireland:

• HPSU Feasibility Study Grant: This gives up to €30,000 (covering 70% of costs) to help you plan and test business ideas focused on selling in international markets.
• Pre-Seed Start Fund: Offers between €50,000 and €100,000 in the form of convertible loans, along with expert mentoring to help early-stage startups grow.
• Innovation Vouchers: You can get €5,000 or €10,000 to work with research partners like colleges or labs to develop new products or services.

What is a Government Grants?

A government grant is money given by the government to help people, businesses, or groups with certain projects or goals. The best part is that, unlike a loan, you don’t have to pay it back as long as you use the money for the right purpose. Grants can be used to help start a business, pay for research, hire workers, or improve technology.

Each grant comes with its own rules and requirements, and you need to be eligible to apply. If you meet the conditions, you can fill out an application to try and get the funding. Government grants are a great way to get support for growing your business or bringing your ideas to life.

Popular Government Grants for Small Businesses to Consider

If you are running or planning to start a small business, there are several popular government grants that can help you grow. These grants provide financial support for things like starting up, going digital, hiring staff or creating innovative products. In Ireland, for example, some common options include:

• LEO Priming Grant – for new businesses under 18 months old
• Feasibility Study Grant – to test the potential of new ideas
• Trading Online Voucher – to build or improve your website
• Enterprise Ireland Innovation Vouchers – to work with research institutions
• Pre-Seed Start Fund – for early-stage startups needing investment and mentoring

How to successfully apply for a grant

Even though grants are available it is not as simple as just sending an application and getting money. You need to show a strong business plan that explains why you need the grant.

Here’s a simple guide on how to successfully apply for a grant:

• Research carefully — Find grants that fit your business needs and goals.
• Check eligibility — Make sure you meet all the requirements before applying.
• Prepare your documents — Gather all necessary paperwork like business plans, financials, and project details.
• Write clearly — Explain your project or business idea in simple, honest, and clear language.
• Follow instructions — Fill out the application carefully, answering all questions and meeting deadlines.
• Show the impact — Highlight how the grant will help your business grow and benefit the community or market.
• Get help if needed — Don’t hesitate to ask experts or local business offices for advice or feedback before submitting.

Conclusion

Government grants offer valuable support to small businesses in Ireland, helping them start, grow, and succeed. By understanding the different grants available and preparing a strong application, business owners can access funding that boosts innovation, expansion, and job creation. Taking advantage of these opportunities can make a big difference in turning business ideas into reality.