ISIF investment fund launches €1bn plan for Irish firms

More than 500 Irish firms already supported by scaling strategy

Tánaiste Simon Harris and Enterprise Minister Peter Burke announced the plan on Sunday, with the Ireland Strategic Investment Fund (ISIF) set to direct investment towards ambitious firms seeking the capital to grow while maintaining their presence in Ireland.

The funding will target several key industries, including technology, life sciences, business services and food. 

It will also build on ISIF’s existing Scaling Businesses strategy, which has already provided support to more than 500 Irish companies.

Burke says €1bn plan will boost confidence among Irish firms

The new commitment is intended to broaden and accelerate that work, according to RTÉ, rather than introduce an entirely new approach. 

Businesses that have previously benefited from ISIF backing include Equal1, which specialises in quantum computing, fleet management software developer Cameramatics and Proverum.

Burke said the funding would help Irish firms realise their international ambitions and give them greater confidence to pursue growth.

“ISIF has a strong record in this area and is well placed to support our SMEs to scale globally, in close collaboration with Enterprise Ireland,” he said.

Rebekah Brady, ISIF’s interim director, said the initiative responded to demand from businesses looking for greater access to finance as they plan their next stages of expansion.

Young adults look abroad as Ireland debates its economic future

The announcement comes amid wider debate about Ireland’s economic future and its ability to persuade people to build their lives in the country. 

A recent survey found that seven in 10 young adults were considering moving abroad in pursuit of a better quality of life.

Backing businesses as they expand could help create more opportunities at home, although the investment scheme is only one part of the broader economic picture. 

The Government also faces scrutiny over its financial priorities as it prepares for Budget 2027, with taxation and public spending among the issues under discussion.