What grants do Local Enterprise Offices offer in Ireland?

Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs) are the first point of contact for small businesses and entrepreneurs across Ireland. They offer a range of financial and non-financial supports including: feasibility study grants (up to €15,000); priming grants for new start-ups (up to €150,000); business expansion grants; trading online vouchers (up to €2,500); mentoring programmes; and training.

Who can apply for LEO grants in Ireland?

LEO grants are available to businesses with 10 or fewer full-time employees (micro-enterprises). The business must have a commercial orientation and operate in a competitive sector. Manufacturing and international services are prioritised for larger grants. Retail, personal services, professional services, and hospitality can access some LEO supports but not all grants.

How much is the LEO Trading Online Voucher scheme in Ireland?

The Trading Online Voucher provides up to €2,500 (50% of eligible costs, so minimum own contribution of €2,500) toward the development of an online presence — including website development, e-commerce functionality, digital marketing tools, and cybersecurity. It is one of the most accessible LEO supports available to all qualifying micro-businesses.

What is the LEO Priming Grant and who qualifies?

The Priming Grant supports new businesses in their first 18 months of trading. It can fund up to 50% of eligible capital costs (equipment, fit-out) or current costs (insurance, marketing, salaries) up to €150,000. The business must be a micro-enterprise (up to 10 employees), commercially viable, and in a sector LEO supports. A business plan is required.

Do I have to repay LEO grants in Ireland?

LEO grants are generally non-repayable once conditions are met. However, conditions typically require that the business remains in operation for a specified period (usually 3 years), employs the stated number of people, and uses the grant for the stated purposes. Failure to meet conditions can trigger clawback.

How do I apply for LEO grants in Ireland?

Apply through your local LEO — there is one in every county and city council. The process begins with a business assessment meeting (free consultation). You then submit a business plan for review. Larger grants involve an approval process by the LEO board. Apply at localenterprise.ie.

Business & Tax · Grants

Local Enterprise Office Grants Ireland 2026

Every county in Ireland has a Local Enterprise Office (LEO) that funds and mentors small businesses. From €2,500 online vouchers to €150,000 start-up priming grants, LEOs are the first place to go when launching or growing a micro-business in Ireland.

Reading time: 5 minutesLast updated: June 24, 2026

LEO GRANTS — MAIN SUPPORTS AT A GLANCE

Support	Amount	Who it suits
Trading Online Voucher	Up to €2,500 (50% co-fund)	Any micro-business going online
Feasibility Study Grant	Up to €15,000	Validating a new business idea
Priming Grant	Up to €150,000	New start-ups (first 18 months)
Business Expansion Grant	Up to €150,000	Established businesses scaling up
Mentoring	Subsidised — typically €600–€900 for 6 sessions	All stages — strategy, HR, finance, sales
Training and development	Subsidised or free programmes	All micro-business owners and staff

Which businesses qualify?

LEO supports are targeted at micro-enterprises — businesses with 10 or fewer employees. Larger companies are referred to Enterprise Ireland. Sectors that are typically well supported:

Manufacturing (any product)
Internationally traded services (software, consulting for export)
Food and agri-business
Tourism-related businesses
Social enterprises
Technology and innovation

Retail, professional services, hospitality, and personal services can access Trading Online Vouchers, mentoring, and training — but may not qualify for capital grants depending on the LEO's guidelines.

The Trading Online Voucher

This is the most accessible LEO support and requires no business plan. To qualify, you must: have 10 or fewer employees; have annual turnover below €2 million; have been trading for at least 6 months; not have received a previous Trading Online Voucher in the last 3 years.

Eligible costs include website design and development, e-commerce setup, digital marketing tools, cybersecurity tools, and mobile app development.

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Start with a free consultation: Every LEO offers a free initial business assessment. This is the fastest way to understand which grants you qualify for and what your business plan needs to include. Most LEOs offer same-week or next-week appointment availability. Go to localenterprise.ie and find your local LEO.

Information Accuracy — This guide has been independently researched and reviewed using official Irish government sources available on the publication date. Government schemes, payment rates, eligibility rules and legislation may change over time. Before making financial, legal or welfare decisions, always confirm the latest information directly with the relevant Irish authority.

Reviewed by

Vitor Alves

Founder of D’Emilia Accounting

Founder of D’Emilia Accounting, helping immigrants navigate Irish tax and benefits.

Last reviewed: June 24, 2026 · About this site

Frequently asked questions

Can I get a LEO grant if I am currently receiving social welfare?

Yes. If you are on Jobseeker's Benefit or Allowance, the Back to Work Enterprise Allowance (BTWA) scheme can be combined with LEO supports. You can keep a portion of your social welfare while starting your business, and apply for LEO grants on top. Check with your local Intreo office.

Do I need to be an Irish citizen to access LEO grants?

No. LEO supports are available to anyone legally permitted to operate a business in Ireland. EU/EEA nationals exercising free movement rights, and non-EEA nationals with a work permit or stamp 4+ can all apply. Your business must be based in Ireland.

Can a sole trader apply for LEO grants or only limited companies?

Both sole traders and limited companies can apply for LEO grants. The business structure is not a disqualifying factor. However, some larger grants (Priming, Expansion) are easier to justify for companies as the accountability structure is clearer.

How competitive is the LEO grant application process?

LEO grant applications are assessed individually rather than competed against each other. A well-prepared business plan that meets the criteria will be approved — you are not competing with a fixed number of slots. The quality of the plan and the viability of the business are what matter.

Can I get a LEO grant for an existing business that is struggling?

LEO grants are generally for businesses with growth potential. If a business is in financial difficulty, a grant may not be the right tool. However, mentoring supports and specific diagnostic programmes are available for businesses going through challenges. Speak to your LEO directly.

How long does it take to receive a LEO grant?

The Trading Online Voucher is typically approved within 4–6 weeks. Larger grants (Priming, Expansion) require board review and can take 2–3 months from initial consultation to grant decision. Begin the process well before you need the funds — especially if you are buying equipment or fitting out premises.

Official sources

This page reflects LEO grant types and amounts for 2026. Specific eligibility criteria and grant levels vary by LEO and are subject to review — confirm at localenterprise.ie.