Embarking on an entrepreneurial journey can be both exciting and challenging. To support budding entrepreneurs, several initiatives are in place: What Supports are Available when Starting Your Business
- HPSU Feasibility Study Grant: Designed for high-potential start-ups aiming for international markets, this grant assists in evaluating the viability of innovative, export-oriented business ideas.
- New Frontiers Programme: A national incubation initiative offering training, mentorship, and financial support to ambitious start-up founders with innovative business concepts.
- Feasibility Study Support: Provides funding to explore the practicality of your business idea, helping to build a solid foundation for your venture.
- Mentoring: Access to experienced business mentors who offer one-on-one guidance, sharing insights and expertise to navigate the start-up landscape.
Expanding Your Business
As your business grows, scaling operations and entering new markets become priorities. The following supports can facilitate this growth:
- Market Discovery Fund: Supports businesses in researching and developing strategies to enter new markets, fostering export opportunities.neh.gov.ie+4neh.gov.ie+4neh.gov.ie+4
- Trade Export Pathway: Offers specialized assistance to businesses aiming to expand cross-border exports, providing tailored support to navigate new markets.neh.gov.ie
- IDA Ireland’s International Marketing Programme (IMP): A financial grant program aiding existing client companies in expanding to international markets.neh.gov.ie
Enhancing Sustainability and Digital Transformation
In today’s dynamic business environment, sustainability and digitalization are key to long-term success. Several programs are available to assist SMEs in these areas:
- Climate Action Voucher: Provides training and advisory services to help businesses identify areas for environmental improvement and develop plans to reduce emissions.neh.gov.ie
- Grow Digital Voucher: Offers financial support for businesses to adopt digital technologies, enhancing efficiency and competitiveness.
- Climate Toolkit for Business: An online resource offering carbon footprint calculators and tailored action plans to guide businesses toward sustainability goals.neh.gov.ie
- Green Transition Finance: Provides loans ranging from €500,000 to €5 million at competitive interest rates, supporting investments in green and sustainable assets.neh.gov.ie
Improving Productivity and Skills
To remain competitive, continuous improvement in productivity and skill development is essential. The following supports are designed to enhance these aspects:
- MentorsWork Programme: A 12-week structured program offering one-on-one mentoring, workshops, and masterclasses tailored to SME needs.neh.gov.ie
- SME Energy Programme: Provides free training courses to help businesses improve energy efficiency and management.neh.gov.ie+1neh.gov.ie+1
- Skills for Better Business Online Assessment: A self-assessment tool helping SME owner-managers identify strengths and areas for improvement in business competencies.neh.gov.ie+2neh.gov.ie+2neh.gov.ie+2
Accessing Financial Support
Financial resources are crucial for business operations and growth. The Strategic Banking Corporation of Ireland (SBCI) offers various financial products, including loans and asset finance, through on-lending partners, ensuring SMEs have access to flexible, low-cost funding options.neh.gov.ie+1neh.gov.ie+1
For a comprehensive overview of these supports and to find the ones best suited to your business needs, visit the National Enterprise Hub. This platform simplifies the search for government supports, connecting you with the resources necessary to thrive in Ireland’s vibrant business landscape.neh.gov.ie+7neh.gov.ie+7neh.gov.ie+7neh.gov.ie
Note: This article is intended for informational purposes. For detailed eligibility criteria and application processes, please refer to the official National Enterprise Hub website.
What Supports are Available when Starting Your Business
Like what we do, then please become a member for €10 per year
