Irish Grants for Going Digital: What's Available and How to Apply

Going digital costs money — new software, a better website, maybe some training or consultancy. The good news is that the Irish government has several grants and vouchers designed specifically to help small businesses with exactly this.

The frustrating news is that these schemes are spread across different agencies and are not always well publicised. This article pulls them together in one place.

1. Trading Online Voucher (Local Enterprise Office)

What it is: Up to €2,500 towards the cost of developing or improving your online presence — typically a new website, an e-commerce capability, or online booking.

Who can apply: Small businesses with 10 or fewer employees that have been trading for at least 6 months. You must apply through your local LEO (there is one in every county).

What it covers:

• Website development or improvement
• Online payment systems
• Digital marketing (up to a certain percentage)
• Some software costs

Important: The voucher is usually 50% of the cost, up to €2,500. So you need to spend at least €2,500 to get the full €2,500 grant. You pay upfront and claim back.

How to apply: Contact your local LEO directly. Most counties run information sessions first — it is worth attending one to understand what is required before you apply. The LEO website for your county will have current information on whether applications are open.

2. Boost for Business (Retail and Small Business Digitalisation)

What it is: A scheme run through Enterprise Ireland to help small retailers and service businesses adopt digital tools and practices.

Who it is for: Small businesses, particularly in retail and services, looking to improve how they use digital technology in their operations.

What it covers:

• Advice and training on digital tools
• Help implementing new systems
• Some grant support depending on the programme phase

This scheme has changed over time, so it is worth checking the current status with your LEO or Enterprise Ireland directly.

3. Enterprise Ireland Digital Transition Fund

What it is: Funding from Enterprise Ireland to help Irish businesses adopt digital and AI tools at a more significant scale.

Who can apply: Businesses with growth ambitions — typically those with more than 10 employees or those looking to expand into export markets. Enterprise Ireland focuses on businesses with scale potential.

What it covers: Technology adoption, digital consultancy, training and capability building.

How to apply: Contact Enterprise Ireland directly through their website or your local Development Advisor.

4. Skillnet Ireland Digital Training

What it is: Subsidised training programmes for businesses and employees, covering digital skills, AI tools, and technology adoption.

Who can apply: Most Irish businesses — the subsidy means courses cost significantly less than commercial rates.

What it covers:

• Digital marketing
• AI and automation tools
• Data analysis
• Cybersecurity basics

How to find courses: Search Skillnet Ireland's website or ask your trade association, as many sector-specific Skillnet groups run programmes tailored to particular industries.

Tips for Getting the Most Out of These Schemes

Apply early. Some vouchers and grants have limited funding in any given year. Schemes can close when the budget runs out, so do not wait until you need the money urgently.

Get your paperwork in order. You will typically need: proof of business registration (CRO number), recent accounts or tax clearance, and a clear description of what you want to spend the money on.

Talk to your LEO first. Even if you are not sure which scheme is right for you, a phone call or meeting with your local LEO will point you in the right direction. This service is free.

Be specific about what you want to buy. Vague applications ("I want to go more digital") are less successful than specific ones ("I want to add an online booking system to my beauty salon website"). Get quotes from suppliers before you apply.

Do not wait for grants to start. If a small investment in a digital tool will save you time or money, it is often worth doing even without a grant. Grants help, but they should not be the only reason you adopt something useful.

Is It Worth the Effort?

Grant applications take time. For a Trading Online Voucher worth €2,500, you might spend 3–4 hours on the application and attending an information session. That is a reasonable trade-off for many businesses.

For larger Enterprise Ireland programmes, the process is more involved — but so is the potential funding. If you are a growing business looking to make a significant investment in technology, the time spent is worthwhile.

Not sure which digital tools your business actually needs? The free AI Readiness Assessment gives you a personalised plan based on your specific business type and how you currently operate — so you know what to spend your voucher on before you apply.