Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 28 July 2026
965. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment when finance (details supplied) for SMEs will reopen for applications for the finance products they provide; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [55190/26]
View answerIn response to the Deputy’s question, I can confirm that the €500 million Growth and Sustainability Loan Scheme (GSLS) is currently being expanded.
Since its launch in September 2023, the Scheme has experienced exceptionally strong demand, with participating lenders fully utilising their allocations before the end of expiry date of 30 June 2026.
In recognition of this strong uptake, the Government has recently approved both an expansion of the Scheme and a three-year extension of its duration, extending its availability until 30 June 2029. Engagement is currently ongoing with the Strategic Banking Corporation of Ireland (SBCI) and the European Investment Bank (EIB) Group to finalise the arrangements necessary to bring the expanded Scheme to market. Subject to the completion of these arrangements, it is expected that the scheme will reopen in Autumn 2026.
My Department continues to work closely with SBCI and the EIB Group to bring the expanded Scheme to market as quickly as possible. The expanded GSLS will help ensure that SMEs can continue to access competitively priced finance to support investment, growth and sustainability.
