Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 20 March 2025
294. Deputy Mark Ward asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the funding opportunities for social enterprises for the circular economy; to outline the application processes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13247/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraWhile policy responsibility for social enterprises lies with the Department of Rural and Community Development, my Department, through the White Paper on Enterprise, recognises social enterprises as an important and growing part of Ireland’s enterprise ecosystem. Social enterprises contribute to our communities by creating jobs, stimulating local economic activity, supporting social, economic and environmental issues and are recognised as an integral part of Ireland’s broad enterprise policy landscape.
The Local Enterprise Offices (LEO) Policy Statement 2024 – 2030 outlines the schemes, programmes and grants that are available through the LEO network and emphasises availability of supports in the areas of Lean, Green and Digital available to a broader range of businesses, regardless of size or sector - including social enterprises.
Among these schemes is the Energy Efficiency Grant (EEG), which supports the investment in technologies and equipment identified in a Green for Business; GreenStart or a SEAI Energy Audit. The aim of the scheme is to reduce the impact of enterprises on the environment thereby increasing the agility and resilience of these businesses.
In 2024, changes were made to the EEG to increase the available funding to a maximum of €10,000 and the contribution rate from Government to 75%. The eligible expenditure was also broadened to include circular economy systems and opened this up to all small businesses regardless of sector. This includes social enterprises, provided they meet the scheme eligibility criteria.
