Local Enterprise Office Clare offers a wide range of financial, productivity, sustainability and digitalisation supports to help businesses to start, grow and become more competitive. Whether developing a new product, increasing production capacity, improving sustainability, adopting technology or entering new markets, support is available at every stage of business development.
The Feasibility Study Grant provides up to €15,000 to help entrepreneurs assess the commercial, technical and financial viability of a new product, process or business concept before making significant investments. Eligible activities include market research, product development, prototyping, technical assessments, product testing and specialist consultancy support.
For new businesses, the Priming Grant and Business Expansion Grants may supports eligible manufacturing and internationally traded enterprises during their first 18 months of trading. Funding can cover up to 50% of eligible project costs, generally up to €50,000. Supports include equipment purchases, fit-out costs, marketing, consultancy, innovation and employment creation.
Businesses looking to reduce costs and improve environmental performance can avail of the Energy Efficiency Grant, which provides up to 75% funding, to a maximum of €10,000, for projects identified through a Green for Business Report, GreenStart Report or SEAI Energy Audit. Eligible investments include energy-efficient equipment, heating and cooling systems, water conservation measures and smart controls.
In addition to financial supports, LEO Clare offers Lean for Business programmes designed to improve productivity and profitability. Through initiatives such as Lean Start and Lean Plus, businesses can work with experienced consultants to streamline production processes, reduce waste, optimise workflows and improve quality systems.
LEO Clare also provides a range of digital supports to help businesses embrace digital transformation. These can assist companies in developing e-commerce capabilities, improving websites, implementing CRM systems, strengthening cybersecurity and adopting digital marketing strategies. Specialist mentoring and training are also available to build digital skills and maximise the return on technology investments.
Further supports include one-to-one mentoring, management development programmes, export readiness initiatives, sustainability programmes, networking opportunities and sector-specific training workshops. These services provide practical guidance from experienced advisors tailored to individual business needs.
Together, these financial, lean, sustainability and digital supports help Clare’s businesses innovate, improve productivity, create employment and strengthen competitiveness. Full details of supports, funding options and eligibility criteria are available through Local Enterprise Office Clare, where businesses can also arrange a meeting with a Business Advisor to discuss the most suitable supports for their development and growth plans.
