Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 16 June 2026
394. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the business grants which are available to gym owners who wish to expand their businesses; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45311/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn the first instance I recommend that any small business owner should explore the National Enterprise Hub (NEH), which helps businesses navigate and access a wide range of government supports available from 32 different Government bodies. The NEH was established as a signposting service to improve access to supports and reduce friction for business owners.
The NEH is open to all businesses, regardless of sector, and gyms and fitness facilities can access a wide range of supports depending on their circumstances. These supports can be explored through the NEH portal (www.neh.gov.ie) or by contacting NEH advisors directly via phone or live chat.
I would also point small business owners in Kerry towards the Local Enterprise Office (LEO) in Tralee. The LEO business advisors provide information and referrals to other relevant bodies, such as, Revenue, Micro Finance Ireland, Fáilte Ireland, LEADER, and Enterprise Ireland, under agreed protocols.
The LEOs offer direct grant assistance to small businesses that are specifically designed for growth or exporting and are aimed at those in the manufacturing and internationally traded services sectors. It should be noted that these grants cannot be provided to businesses in areas such as personal services, local retail, or local professional services.
LEOs provide consultancy and grants to small businesses of all sectors, in the areas of Green, Digital and Lean. These grants are focused on providing capital to assist in implementation of recommendations to digitalise or decarbonise a business. These grants are designed to enhance the productivity and improve the competitiveness of small businesses particularly in the areas of LEAN, Green, and Digital.
Furthermore, the LEOs offer a wide range of high-quality business and management development programmes that are tailored to meet specific business requirements. LEO Mentors are well versed in the wide range of supports that may be available to business owners and provide crucial insights into the business development journey.
Mentors can also assist businesses owners with applications to Micro-finance Ireland (MFI), which is a not-for-profit lender that offers small business loans for commercially viable proposals. MFI can assist with government backed loans of up to €50,000 that can be used to help fund start-up costs, working capital or business expansion. By applying through their Local Enterprise Office, clients can avail of a 1% reduction in the interest rate charged. These loans are available to any business (Sole Trader, Partnership or Limited Company) with less than 10 employees subject to certain eligibility criteria.
