Lauren Byrne

Cybersecurity & IT Essentials for Small Businesses in Ireland

In today’s fast-paced digital world, technology is no longer just a “nice-to-have” – it’s a key driver of growth, productivity, and resilience for small businesses. From cloud-based systems that make remote work seamless, to cybersecurity tools that protect sensitive data, embracing the right tech solutions can be a game-changer for businesses.

Yet for many small businesses, the idea of “upgrading IT” feels more like a headache than a help. Budget constraints, lack of in-house expertise, and fear of disrupting existing operations can all get in the way. That’s why understanding the essentials – what you really need, what’s worth investing in, and how to keep it simple – is crucial.

 

The Power of Getting the Basics Right: Businesses that prioritise even a few foundational IT elements can see a big difference in how efficiently they operate, how confidently they grow, and how safely they manage risk. The goal isn’t to become a tech expert overnight – it’s about making your systems work for you, not against you.

 

Here are the three areas to focus on first:

 

Cybersecurity: A Non-Negotiable

Cybercrime is not just a big-business problem. In fact, smaller businesses are often more vulnerable precisely because they assume they’re not a target. A single phishing email, stolen password, or ransomware attack can cripple operations and damage your reputation – sometimes permanently.

Key cybersecurity actions to take:

• Use strong, unique passwords and implement two-factor authentication (2FA) wherever possible.
• Keep all devices and software updated to patch security vulnerabilities.
• Back up data regularly to a secure cloud-based system.
• Train your team to spot phishing scams and suspicious links.

Even free or low-cost cybersecurity tools can go a long way in protecting your business. Partnering with a local IT service provider can also give you access to affordable ongoing support and threat monitoring.

 

Modern Systems = Greater Efficiency

Outdated systems are one of the biggest blockers of productivity for small businesses. Whether it’s clunky spreadsheets, disconnected software tools, or manual paperwork, inefficiencies add up fast.

Investing in cloud-based systems such as Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, or sector-specific platforms like accounting or inventory software, can help streamline operations, reduce duplication, and support collaboration (especially across multiple locations or hybrid teams).

Examples of where modern IT can help:

• Finance: Automated invoicing, real-time reporting, secure online payments.
• Marketing & Sales: CRM systems, email marketing platforms, website analytics.
• Operations: Cloud storage, project management tools, shared calendars.

Many of these tools offer affordable monthly subscriptions with scalable pricing, so you only pay for what you need as you grow.

 

Digital Visibility for Business Growth

A solid IT setup isn’t just about internal efficiency, it’s about how you show up in the market. Irish consumers are increasingly digital-first. They search online, read reviews, and expect a seamless customer experience whether they’re engaging in person or online.

This means your website, email, social media, and even booking or payment systems are all part of your digital presence – and your reputation.

IT tips to boost visibility:

• Ensure your website is mobile-friendly and up-to-date.
• Set up secure email hosting with your business domain (e.g. yourname@yourbusiness.ie).
• Use analytics tools (like Google Analytics or Meta Insights) to understand how customers find and interact with your business online.

Combining solid tech with strong branding and customer communication helps build trust and credibility – two essentials for standing out in a crowded marketplace.

 

Common Tech Challenges (And How to Overcome Them)

If you’re a small business owner who feels overwhelmed by the pace of digital change, you’re not alone! Here are some of the most common issues and practical ways to tackle them:

 

Challenge	What You Can Do
“We don’t have the budget for IT.”	Start small: free tools and affordable subscriptions are often more than enough at first. Think about cost savings from improved efficiency, too.
“We’re not very tech-savvy.”	Tap into local supports – your Local Enterprise Office, Skillnet training, and Bridge Enterprise Centres mentoring can all help demystify the jargon.
“We’ve been using the same system for years.”	Audit your current tools. If something is holding you back or taking up too much time, it’s worth looking at alternatives. Change doesn’t have to be all at once.
“I don’t have time to research all this.”	Consider a local IT partner or managed service provider. They can set up and manage your systems so you can focus on running your business.

 

Final Thoughts

At Bridge Enterprise Centres, we understand the unique challenges faced by SMEs. That’s why we support our clients with not just office space and business mentoring – but with practical guidance on how to work smarter, not harder. Whether you’re a one-person startup or a growing team, getting your IT and cybersecurity foundations right can unlock huge benefits in efficiency, visibility, and long-term success.

 

Need a referral to a trusted local IT expert? Get in touch today – we’re here to help your business thrive, securely and smartly.

BIK on Commercial Vehicles – CAREFUL NOW!

What is BIK?

Benefit in Kind (BIK) is a tax charge applied when an employer provides an employee with any benefit, such as a company car, which is used for personal purposes. The value of the benefit is subject to PAYE, PRSI, and USC.

There are many misconceptions about Benefit in kind (BIK) on commercial vehicles.

• “It’s a van, so no BIK.” – Incorrect. When a van is used for personal trips, even occasionally, it can be subject to BIK.
• “It’s my company, so I no BIK.” – Incorrect. All directors and employees must follow Revenue rules.
• “The vehicle is parked at the workplace overnight, so no BIK.” – Incorrect. Any personal use outside of work, even if minimal, can lead to BIK liability.

It is essential for all business owners and employees who use company vehicles, to understand the rules around BIK on commercial vehicles. With increased Revenue scrutiny, it’s crucial to ensure compliance while managing costs effectively.

BIK on Commercial Vehicles

BIK treatment for commercial vehicles is different to that for passenger cars.

General Definition of Commercial Vehicles:

• A van (designed primarily for carrying goods, not passengers)
• A pickup truck (with a gross vehicle weight exceeding 3,500kg)
• Other vehicles under Revenue’s classification as commercial for tax purposes

How is BIK on Commercial Vehicles Calculated

For commercial vehicles, the standard BIK rate is 8% of the Original Market Value (OMV) of the vehicle, compared to rates of up to 37.50% for passenger vehicles.

To qualify for the 8% rate, the vehicle must be:

– A commercial vehicle used primarily for work purposes.
– Necessary for the employee’s role (e.g., for deliveries, construction, or servicing work).
– Not used extensively for personal travel beyond incidental use.

For 2023, 2024 and 2025, a reduction of €10,000 can be applied to the OMV of vans for the purpose of calculating the cash equivalent.

Exemptions from BIK

1. Employees will not pay tax on the benefit of an employer provided van where the employer provides your employee with the van for work purposes and they have to bring it home afterwards and the employee is not allowed to use the van for private travel apart from travelling to and from work and the employee spends at least 80% of their working day away from the main work premises.
2. If the employee uses an ‘employer provided’ van in a van pool, they do not have to pay any tax on that benefit.
3. There are also certain BIK exemptions and discounts available where the van made available to the employee is an electric van.

How to Minimise BIK Exposure.

• Limit personal use: Ensure commercial vehicles are used strictly for business needs.
• Keep mileage records: Maintain logs to demonstrate that the vehicle is not used personally.
• Ensure proper classification: Verify with Revenue that the vehicle qualifies as commercial.
• Explore alternatives: Consider mileage reimbursement instead of providing a vehicle.

Conclusion

BIK on commercial vehicles is an area of tax that must be managed.  If your company provides vehicles to employees, you must ensure compliance with Revenue guidelines to prevent any unexpected tax liabilities.

 

As always, Seek professional advice to assist in compiling vehicle policies efficiently while controlling costs.

MF 24/06/25

How to Scale Your Marketing

By Lissa McPhillips | Strategic Marketing Adviser | www.dynamicmarketing.ie

Scaling your marketing isn’t just about spending more – it’s about being smarter with your time, tools, and tactics. Whether you’re looking to attract new customers, improve conversions, or expand into new markets, success comes down to clarity, consistency, and smart execution.

Here’s your quick guide to doing just that.

Get the Basics Right

Before you ramp things up, make sure you’ve got strong foundations:

• Know your audience. Get clear on who you’re targeting – and just as importantly, who you’re not.
• Choose the right channels. Be where your audience is, whether that’s Google, Instagram, email, events, or all of the above.
• Set goals and track them. Define what success looks like and measure it regularly.

Make Automation Your Ally

You don’t need to spend a fortune to work smarter. Start small:

• Send automated welcome emails (Mailchimp or MailerLite work well).
• Schedule social media posts ahead of time (try Buffer or Meta Business Suite).
• Set up forms that send instant follow-ups (using Google Forms or Typeform).

These tools save time and keep your marketing moving – even when you’re not online.

Follow Up Like a Pro

Getting someone’s attention is just step one. Use tools like email flows, retargeting ads, or simple chatbots to guide potential customers toward taking action. Match your follow-up to what people are actually interested in so you’re always relevant.

Test, Improve, Repeat

Especially if you’re selling online, conversion optimisation is key. Tools like Hotjar show you how people engage on your site so you can improve product pages, landing pages, and calls to action. A few small tweaks can lead to a big lift in results.

Don’t Go It Alone

Growth doesn’t always mean more ad spend. Partnering with complementary brands, influencers, or affiliates can open new doors and bring in new audiences without breaking the bank.

Scale Smart, Not Big

Don’t focus on just doing more – focus instead in doing what you’re doing better. Focus on high-quality leads, automate routine tasks, and fine-tune what’s already working. Less guesswork, more growth.

 

Need help? Get in touch with Lissa at Dynamic Marketing!

Congratulations to the DLR’s newly elected Cathaoirleach & and Leas-Cathaoirleach!

Bridge Enterprise Centres in Nutgrove and Sandyford Industrial estate extends its warm congratulations to the newly elected Cathaoirleach of Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council, Cllr Jim Gildea, and Leas-Cathaoirleach, Cllr Pierce Dargan, as they take up their new roles.

 

We look forward to working closely with them to enhance our community and continue developing the west of the county as the leading destination for both working and living.

ARE YOU ENTITLED TO GRANTS PREVIOUSLY WITHHELD DUE TO GOVERNMENT ERROR?

Local SMEs entitled to grants under the Increased Cost of business (ICOB) and the Power Up grants launched in 2025.

Due to, what the Department of Enterprise is calling a ‘misclassification’ issue and what we  call the usual negative attitude to SME funding, more than 6,000 small and medium enterprises were flatly refused funds or denied eligibility by the Department.

Now that the ‘misclassification’ or Big Cockup has been discovered, upwards of €40million grants are owed to SMEs.

To add insult to injury the SMEs involved must now go through an ‘appeals process’ to be administered by the local authorities. We have been told that this ‘appeals process’ will open, in the usual civil service lingo, ‘as soon as possible’.

Under the ICOB grant SMEs were entitled to a proportion of their 2023 commercial rates refunded as a grant. The Power Up grant gave €4,000 to businesses in some sectors.

Watch out for notifications from your Local Authority, which we expect ‘as soon as possible’.

MF 23/06/25.