Small Business Grants in Ireland for 2025 (With Deadlines)
- December 20, 2024
Our Expertise
As 2025 approaches, Irish small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) have access to a variety of grants designed to foster growth, innovation, and sustainability. Below is an overview of key grants available, along with their application deadlines and eligibility criteria.
Key Takeaways
- Energy Efficiency Focus: The BEUS and ACA grants provide substantial support for businesses aiming to reduce operational costs and carbon footprints.
- Cybersecurity Importance: The NCSC’s grant highlights the growing emphasis on safeguarding businesses against cyber threats.
- VAT Threshold Increase: The higher threshold offers relief for smaller businesses but requires careful financial planning.
- Expired Opportunities: While some grants like the Power Up Grant have passed, businesses should monitor for new or extended funding opportunities.
- Stay Informed: Keeping up with updates from Enterprise Ireland and other bodies is essential for leveraging available resources effectively.
| Grant | Applicable Sector | Amount Available | Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Energy Upgrade Scheme (BEUS) | All SMEs (e.g., hospitality, retail, office-based) | Up to €120,000 | Ongoing |
| Accelerated Capital Allowance (ACA) | All businesses | Tax relief (amount varies by investment) | Ongoing |
| Local Enterprise Office (LEO) Supports | Early-stage entrepreneurs and small businesses | Varies by program | Varies |
| Enterprise Ireland Funding and Grants | All SMEs (startups to established firms) | Varies by program | Varies |
Available Grants for Irish Businesses In 2025
Business Energy Upgrade Scheme (BEUS)
- Purpose: Assists SMEs in implementing energy-efficient upgrades, such as solar thermal installations and heat pump systems, to reduce operational costs and environmental impact.
- Funding: Up to €120,000 per project.
- Application Deadline: Ongoing; businesses are encouraged to apply promptly as funds are limited.
- Eligibility: Open to small businesses, including hotels, retail, offices, and hospitality sectors.
- More Information: grantsandfunding.ie
Accelerated Capital Allowance (ACA) for Energy Efficiency
- Purpose: Provides tax benefits for businesses investing in energy-efficient equipment, allowing the full cost of qualifying equipment to be deducted from taxable income in the year of purchase.
- Application Deadline: Ongoing; businesses should consult with tax advisors to ensure timely claims.
- Eligibility: Available to businesses in Ireland that pay corporation tax or income tax on trading or professional income.
- More Information: neh.gov.ie
Local Enterprise Office (LEO) Supports
- Purpose: Offers various grants and supports to SMEs, including feasibility grants, business expansion grants, and mentorship programs, tailored to assist businesses at different development stages.
- Application Deadline: Varies by program; businesses should contact their local LEO for specific deadlines.
- Eligibility: Generally aimed at early-stage entrepreneurs and small businesses in Ireland.
- More Information: localenterprise.ie
Enterprise Ireland Funding and Grants
- Purpose: Provides a range of funding and grants tailored to businesses at various growth stages, focusing on areas such as research and innovation, employment, and sustainability.
- Application Deadline: Varies by program; businesses should consult Enterprise Ireland for specific deadlines.
- Eligibility: Supports Irish companies at every stage of their journey, from early-stage to established businesses and multinationals.
- More Information: enterprise-ireland.com
National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) – Cyber Security Improvement Grant
- Purpose: Enhances the cybersecurity posture of SMEs by providing funding to cover 80% of cybersecurity consultancy costs, up to a maximum of €60,000.
- Application Deadline: The initial application round closed on December 8, 2024; a second round may be announced subject to budget availability.
- Eligibility: Open to SMEs seeking to improve their cybersecurity measures.
- More Information: ncsc.gov.ie
Grant Application Deadlines and Eligibility
Each grant has specific eligibility criteria and application deadlines. It’s crucial for businesses to review these details carefully to ensure they meet the requirements and submit applications on time.
Staying Informed
To remain updated on the latest grant opportunities and deadlines, businesses should regularly consult official sources such as Enterprise Ireland, Local Enterprise Offices, and the National Enterprise Hub. Subscribing to newsletters from these organisations can provide timely information on available supports.
By leveraging these grants and supports, businesses in Ireland can access essential resources to foster growth, innovation, and sustainability.
FAQs
1. What are the best grants for improving energy efficiency?
The Business Energy Upgrade Scheme (BEUS) offers funding of up to €120,000 for energy-efficient upgrades. Additionally, the Accelerated Capital Allowance (ACA) provides tax relief for energy-efficient equipment purchases.
2. Are there grants available for cybersecurity improvements?
Yes, the National Cyber Security Centre’s Cyber Security Improvement Grant offers funding for 80% of consultancy costs, up to €60,000. Check for updates on potential new rounds of applications.
3. What is the VAT registration threshold for 2025?
The VAT registration threshold has increased to €85,000, effective January 1, 2025.
4. Is there funding available for digital upgrades?
The Power Up Grant provided €4,000 for digital enhancements, but the registration process has now closed.
5. How can I stay updated on new grants and opportunities?
Regularly visit websites like Enterprise Ireland, Local Enterprise Office, and National Enterprise Hub. Subscribing to newsletters is also a great way to stay informed.
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