Grants & FDI Support Programs
Navigating the state-backed financial incentives available to multinational companies and high-potential start-ups locating in Ireland.
IDA Ireland (Industrial Development Agency)
IDA Ireland is the semi-state body responsible for attracting and retaining inward foreign direct investment (FDI). They offer a range of financial and non-financial supports negotiated on a case-by-case basis.
Available IDA Grants
- Employment Grants: Capital injections based on the number of sustainable jobs created. Often paid in tranches as employment targets are met.
- Capital Grants: Contributions toward the cost of fixed assets, including land, buildings, and machinery.
- Training Grants: Funding to cover the cost of training staff in new technologies or processes specific to the Irish operation.
- R&D Grants: Direct funding for strategic research, complementing the statutory R&D tax credit.
Regional Variations
Grant rates are significantly influenced by location. Under EU Regional Aid Guidelines, IDA Ireland can offer substantially higher grant assistance to companies that locate operations outside of Dublin (e.g., in the Border, Midlands, or West regions) to promote balanced regional development.
Enterprise Ireland
While IDA focuses on FDI, Enterprise Ireland (EI) focuses on indigenous companies and High Potential Start-Ups (HPSUs)—which can include foreign founders who establish their primary global headquarters in Ireland.
HPSU Funding Criteria
To qualify as an HPSU, the enterprise must:
- Be introducing a new or innovative product/service.
- Be involved in manufacturing or internationally traded services.
- Be capable of creating 10 jobs and realizing €1 million in sales within three to four years.
- Be headquartered and controlled in Ireland.
- Be less than five years old.
Successful HPSU applicants can receive matched equity funding up to €250,000.