Insights

Key Insights for Start-ups and SME Owners from the Draft Programme for Government 2025

The Draft Programme for Government 2025, titled Securing Ireland’s Future, outlines an ambitious plan for Ireland’s economic growth and reform over the next five years. For small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and start-ups, the programme offers several initiatives that aim to enhance competitiveness, support innovation, and reduce operational burdens. Here’s what business owners need to know:

1. Taxation and Financial Stability

• Pro-enterprise tax policies: The government commits to maintaining a broad tax base to guard against economic downturns. This includes indexing tax credits and bands to prevent an increased tax burden and implementing progressive tax reforms if economic conditions remain strong.
• Support for SMEs and start-ups: A comprehensive review of business taxes and costs will be conducted, ensuring SMEs and start-ups are consulted before new regulations are introduced. Additionally, redundant regulations will be identified and eliminated to reduce administrative burdens.
• Incentives for start-ups and scale-ups: The government plans to simplify the business tax system to promote innovation and create a supportive environment for new enterprises.

2. SME-Specific Initiatives

• Small Business Unit: A new unit within the Department of Enterprise will focus on SME concerns, ensuring tailored support and policy attention.
• Cost of Business Advisory Forum: This forum will address challenges like rising operational costs and labour expenses, aiming to create a more predictable business environment.
• Digital transformation: SMEs will receive support to adopt sustainable practices and digital technologies. Programmes like the National Digital Strategy will provide funding and resources to help businesses integrate artificial intelligence and digital solutions.

3. Start-Up and Entrepreneurial Supports

• National Start-Up Hub: The government plans to establish a centralised hub where entrepreneurs can engage with government departments, streamline processes, and connect with fellow entrepreneurs.
• Funding opportunities: The new €250 million Enterprise Ireland Seed and Venture Capital Scheme will provide start-ups with access to essential early-stage funding. A review of fund structures to de-risk investment in start-ups is also underway.
• Venture capital incentives: Efforts to attract international venture capital will include incentives to encourage investments in local companies, strengthening Ireland’s position as a prime location for venture capital.
• Support for scaling: Start-ups and SMEs will benefit from enhanced access to training, mentoring, and funding through initiatives like the National Enterprise Hub.
• Simplified regulations: A commitment to reducing administrative burdens for start-ups will include examining SME reporting requirements and introducing policies that promote innovation and growth.

4. Employment and Workforce Development

• Job creation goals: The government targets the creation of 300,000 new jobs by 2030, supported by strategic investments in key sectors such as ICT, medtech, and financial services.
• Training and apprenticeships: On-the-job training and apprenticeship schemes will be expanded, with additional measures to make these opportunities more accessible and affordable for SMEs and start-ups.
• Flexible working: Policies will encourage flexible work arrangements, balancing the needs of businesses and employees while promoting productivity.

5. Financial Services and Banking

• Lower insurance costs: Reforms in the insurance sector aim to increase market competition, enhance transparency, and drive down costs for businesses.
• Fintech and green finance: Start-ups in financial services will benefit from investments in fintech innovation and green financing solutions. A National Fintech Hub is also planned to support entrepreneurs in this sector.
• Access to capital: The government will work to simplify regulatory frameworks and attract private investment to provide SMEs and start-ups with better funding opportunities.

6. Infrastructure and Regional Development

• Enhanced infrastructure: Investments in broadband, transport, and energy infrastructure will support SME and start-up operations, particularly in rural areas. This includes prioritising connectivity and the expansion of remote working hubs.
• Regional enterprise plans: New initiatives will support balanced regional development, ensuring SMEs and start-ups across the country have access to resources and opportunities.

7. Climate and Sustainability

• Energy efficiency support: SMEs and start-ups will receive assistance in adopting clean energy technologies and reducing operational emissions. Programmes like the TAMS grant will encourage the installation of solar systems and other renewable energy solutions.
• Carbon farming: A National Framework for Carbon Farming will provide guidance and financial incentives for businesses involved in sustainable practices.

Conclusion

The government’s programme signals a strong commitment to creating a business-friendly environment for SMEs and start-ups. By addressing taxation, infrastructure, digitalisation, and sustainability, the initiatives aim to ensure businesses can thrive in a competitive and evolving market.

Stay connected with the Bridge Enterprise Centres for updates and support on how these policies will impact your business and how you can leverage them for growth.

 

Reference: You can read the full draft programme for Government here. 

 

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Essential Tech Tools for Irish Startups

Starting your business can be an exciting yet challenging venture. With limited resources and high competition, you must optimise your operations to remain agile and competitive. Leveraging the right technology can make a significant difference, enabling yout business to work smarter, not harder. Here are some essential tech tools available to you that can help boost productivity, streamline accounting, and supercharge marketing efforts.

Productivity Tools

Paid Options

1. Microsoft 365
Microsoft 365 remains a staple for startups due to its comprehensive suite of tools. With cloud-based applications like Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Teams, it’s easier than ever to collaborate in real time, whether your team is in Dublin, Cork, or remote.

2. Notion
For startups juggling multiple projects, Notion is a versatile tool for project management and note-taking. It combines task tracking, documentation, and team collaboration in one platform, making it a favourite for tech-savvy teams.

3. Slack
Slack simplifies communication with its intuitive messaging platform. Whether you need quick updates or detailed discussions, Slack’s integration with other tools like Google Drive and Trello ensures your workflow remains uninterrupted.

Freeware Alternatives

1. LibreOffice
An open-source alternative to Microsoft 365, LibreOffice offers robust document, spreadsheet, and presentation tools for startups looking to cut costs.

2. Trello (Free Version)
Ideal for task management, Trello’s free version provides an easy-to-use board system to organise projects and workflows.

3. Discord
Initially designed for gamers, Discord has evolved into a powerful communication tool with free voice, video, and text chat features.

Accounting Tools

Paid Options

1. Xero
Xero is a cloud-based accounting software ideal for Irish startups. It simplifies bookkeeping, invoicing, and expense tracking, ensuring compliance with Irish tax laws. Its integration with banks in Ireland streamlines financial management.

2. QuickBooks Online
Another popular option, QuickBooks Online, offers robust features for small businesses, including payroll management and VAT filing. Its user-friendly interface makes it a top choice for startups without dedicated accounting staff.

3. Big Red Cloud
Designed specifically for Irish businesses, Big Red Cloud offers an easy-to-use accounting platform tailored to local needs. It supports payroll, invoicing, and VAT returns, making it a practical solution for startups.

4. Sage Accounting
Sage Accounting is a reliable tool for small businesses in Ireland, offering features like invoicing, cash flow management, and VAT compliance. Its scalability ensures it grows alongside your business needs.

Freeware Alternatives

1. Wave
A free accounting tool perfect for small businesses, Wave offers invoicing, expense tracking, and receipt scanning without any subscription fees.

2. GNUCash
An open-source accounting software, GNUCash provides essential bookkeeping features like double-entry accounting and financial tracking.

Marketing Tools

Paid Options

1. HubSpot
HubSpot’s free CRM is perfect for Irish startups looking to manage their customer relationships effectively. Its suite of marketing, sales, and service tools allows businesses to automate campaigns, track leads, and measure performance.

2. Canva
Creating professional marketing materials is a breeze with Canva. From social media graphics to presentations, this user-friendly platform offers thousands of templates to elevate your brand’s visual identity.

3. Mailchimp
Email marketing remains a powerful tool for startups, and Mailchimp’s platform is among the best. It offers templates, automation features, and analytics to help you build and maintain strong customer relationships.

Freeware Alternatives

1. GIMP
For startups needing advanced graphic design capabilities without the cost, GIMP is a powerful open-source alternative to Canva or Adobe Photoshop.

2. Zoho Campaigns (Free Plan)
Zoho Campaigns offers email marketing features like templates and automation tools under its free plan, making it a viable choice for budget-conscious startups.

3. Hootsuite (Free Version)
Hootsuite’s free plan enables basic social media management, allowing startups to schedule posts and track engagement across multiple platforms.

Why These Tools Matter

The right technology stack can make or break a startup. By using tools tailored for productivity, accounting, and marketing, Your startup can focus on growth and innovation rather than being bogged down by inefficiencies. Moreover, many of these tools offer scalable pricing plans, ensuring they grow alongside your business. If you’re on a tight budget, be sure to check out freeware options such as LibreOffice, Wave, and GIMP which will allow your startup to maintain efficiency and professionalism while minimising costs.

 

Disclaimer – Always consult a qualified professional to ensure the chosen tools meet your specific business needs and comply with local regulations.

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January Self-Care Checklist: Daily Practices for a Healthier You

The start of a new year often brings a sense of renewal and the promise of fresh beginnings. January, with its quiet post-holiday calm, is the perfect time to focus on self-care and set the tone for the months ahead. Taking care of yourself isn’t selfish; it’s essential. Here’s a January self-care checklist to help you embrace daily practices that will nourish your body, mind, and spirit.

1. Start Your Day with Hydration

After hours of sleep, your body craves water. Begin each morning with a glass of water to rehydrate and kick-start your metabolism. Make sure to bring a bottle of water with you to the office, and set yourself a target for the number of litres you wish to drink in a day.

2. Establish a Morning Routine

A structured morning routine can set a positive tone for the day. Consider incorporating mindfulness practices such as journaling, meditation, or stretching. Even five minutes of deep breathing can help centre your mind and reduce stress.

3. Prioritise Nutrition

January is an excellent time to reset your eating habits. Focus on incorporating whole foods into your meals, such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Aim for balanced meals that fuel your energy levels and support overall health. Planning your meals for the week can help you stay on track.

4. Move Your Body Daily

Physical activity doesn’t have to mean hours at the gym. Find an activity you enjoy, whether it’s walking, yoga, dancing, or cycling, and aim to move your body every day. Even a 10-minute stretch or brisk walk can improve circulation and elevate your mood.

5. Set Realistic Goals

The pressure to achieve lofty resolutions can feel overwhelming. Instead, set small, attainable goals that build momentum. For instance, commit to reading one book this month, drinking more water, or decluttering one drawer a week. Celebrate each accomplishment to stay motivated.

6. Schedule Downtime

In our busy lives, rest often takes a backseat. Make it a priority to schedule downtime each day, whether it’s enjoying a cup of tea, taking a bath, or simply sitting quietly. This time allows your mind and body to recharge.

7. Limit Screen Time

Too much screen time can strain your eyes, disrupt sleep, and impact mental health. Set boundaries by designating tech-free times during the day, especially before bedtime. Instead, use this time to read, journal, or connect with loved ones.

8. Practice Gratitude

Starting or ending your day with gratitude can shift your mindset and improve overall well-being. Keep a journal where you write down three things you’re grateful for each day. These moments of reflection can help you focus on the positive.

9. Connect with Nature

Spending time outdoors has been shown to reduce stress and boost mood. Whether it’s a walk in the park, gardening, or simply sitting in your garden, make it a habit to connect with nature regularly. Even in winter, the fresh air and natural surroundings can be rejuvenating.

10. Prioritise Sleep

Good sleep is foundational to health and well-being. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night. Establish a bedtime routine that signals to your body it’s time to wind down, such as dimming lights, reading, or listening to calming music.

11. Nurture Relationships

Meaningful connections are vital for emotional health. Make an effort to reach out to friends and family, whether through a phone call, a message, or a visit. Sharing your thoughts and feelings can strengthen bonds and provide mutual support.

12. Explore a Creative Outlet

Creativity is a powerful form of self-expression and stress relief. Whether it’s painting, writing, baking, or playing music, find a hobby that brings you joy and make time for it. Creativity doesn’t have to be perfect; it’s about enjoying the process.

13. Learn to Say No

Overcommitting can lead to burnout. Practice setting boundaries and saying no to tasks or events that don’t align with your priorities. Respecting your own limits is an essential act of self-care.

14. Seek Professional Support if Needed

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or low, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Talking to a therapist or counsellor can provide valuable tools and support to navigate challenges.

15. Celebrate Small Wins

Acknowledge and celebrate your achievements, no matter how small they may seem. Each step you take towards a healthier, happier you is worth recognising.

By incorporating these daily practices into your routine, you can create a foundation for a healthier and more balanced life. Self-care is not a one-size-fits-all approach, so adapt this checklist to suit your needs and preferences. Here’s to a January filled with self-compassion, growth, and well-being!

 

Disclaimer – This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider regarding any questions or concerns about your health or a medical condition.

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End of Year Message from the Bridge Enterprise Centres’ Chair.

This year, there has understandably been much media and pub talk about the cost-of-living, housing affordability, interest rates, energy costs, insurance and so on. Like you, my mind immediately thinks of these challenges as the ‘cost of doing business’ pressures. The repercussions of the cost-of-living increases are that the business expenses are increasing and profit margins for small businesses are squeezed. This inevitably means that the already heavy responsibility of owning and leading a business is added to by the stress and worry of actually staying afloat and of supporting your staff, your own livelihood and your community.

 

In a nutshell – conditions are still tough, although there are some signs of levelling off, while high business costs continue to put pressure on profit margins. We in Bridge Enterprise Centres can see encouraging signs, with more people thinking about starting a business, and many established businesses showing an interest in innovation and growth initiatives.

 

Another heartening signal is small business owners investing more into marketing, business development, planning and hiring. As always, despite the challenging conditions, our SME owners are showing an uplift in optimism with their ‘go for it’ attitude.

 

Throughout this past year we in Bridge Enterprise Centres have been working to improve the business environment for small business and support the best possible opportunities to succeed. We continue to advocate for fairer competition and call for better processes to support SMEs striving to win Government contracts.

 

As 2024 ends, it is time to think of new possibilities as we turn our eyes to the coming year. Next year you will see us advocating for better regulation that is the ‘right size’ for small businesses, tax measures to encourage business formation and expansion and support for businesses in taking risk to innovate and develop. We will also be vigorously advocating for better digital use and opportunities for businesses to capitalise on AI tools.

 

That is next year. For now, I wish you a healthy, profitable and fulfilling end of year. Take a breath, recharge your batteries and get back to profitable business for 2025 … and we in BRIDGE, your local centre of enterprise, will be right there with you! Just a call away, to assist you in your business challenges.

 

Mark Fielding.

Chairperson, Bridge Enterprise Centres.

 

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A Simple Guide to SEO for Irish Small Businesses

By: Richard McKeown, WSI

Search engine optimisation (SEO) is a crucial tool for any Irish small business looking to grow its online presence. With the right strategies, you can make your website more visible, attract more local customers, and drive meaningful traffic to your business.

 

What is SEO and Why Does It Matter?

SEO involves improving your website so that it ranks higher in search engine results. Why is this important? Because:

• Up to 90% of online experiences start with a search engine.
• Over 70% of clicks come from organic (unpaid) search results.

For Irish businesses, this means potential customers might never find you without an SEO-optimised site. A solid SEO strategy ensures your website speaks to both search engines like Google and your audience, helping you be found on Google and compete effectively in a crowded market.

 

Key Areas of SEO for Small Businesses

1. Local SEO: Irish customers searching for businesses often include local terms like “near me” or “Dublin cafes.” Local SEO helps your business appear in region-specific results. Steps to boost your local SEO include:

• Google Business Profile: Set up and optimise your profile with accurate details and opening hours.
• Consistent Contact Information: Ensure your business name, address, and phone number (NAP) are identical across your website and directories.
• Online Directories: Register on platforms like Golden Pages or local listings to enhance visibility

 

2. On-Page SEO: This involves optimising content directly on your site, including keywords, high-quality images, and easy navigation. Irish businesses should focus on:

• Mobile-friendliness—most searches in Ireland are now done on mobile devices.
• Fast load times.
• Clear and relevant content that answers your customers’ questions.

 

3. Content Strategy: Regular, engaging content builds trust and drives traffic. Examples include blogs about your industry, how-to guides, and local event coverage. Use relevant Irish keywords to appeal to local searchers.

 

3. Off-Site SEO: Links from other websites (backlinks) to yours increase your site’s authority. Partner with trusted Irish businesses, bloggers, or news outlets to build links.

 

 

Common SEO Mistakes to Avoid

• Ignoring mobile optimisation: With Ireland’s high smartphone usage, mobile-friendly websites are essential.
• Keyword stuffing: Focus on natural, user-friendly content rather than overloading keywords.
• Inconsistent business information: Ensure your NAP details are the same across all platforms.
• Expecting results overnight, SEO is a long-term strategy that will help you succeed in the longer term.

 

Many small businesses find SEO overwhelming or lack the time to do it effectively. That’s where an SEO expert can help. An expert can:

• Handle the technical side of SEO while you focus on your business.
• Offer faster, more reliable results based on proven strategies.
• Identify and fix issues like slow loading times or broken links.

SEO is an investment in your business’s future, helping you attract more customers and grow your brand. If you’re unsure where to start or want a free SEO audit, get in touch today.

 

Richard McKeown, WSI

 

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End of Year Financial Planning

It is hard to believe that it’s nearly Christmas again. The last year seems to have gone by so quickly. It’s a good opportunity to take a look at what you are doing in terms of financial planning – because no doubt 2025 will go by just as fast, and before you know it we will be here at Christmas 2025 and no further on.

 

What changes are you going to make for 2025? There are so many small changes that you can make which will make a significant difference to your financial wellbeing. We have listed a few below and even if you implement a few of them, you will be better off.

 

1. Energy: Switch your electricity/gas bill – so easy to do and you can save a lot of money. Go to one of the switcher sites like bonkers.ie and it does it all for you. With prices dropping there are better deals.
2. Subscriptions: Review the subscriptions you are paying for. Do you really need 4x Netflix logins, Disney+, Amazon Prime, Audible, Kindle Unlimited, NowTV and Sky? When did you last use them? €10 per month doesn’t sound like much but that’s €120 per year. If you haven’t tried to cancel your Sky subscription lately you could be seriously overpaying for it, just call them and they will give you a better deal. Download your bank transactions for two months and isolate all the subscriptions you are paying for to decide if you really need them. Otherwise you are just throwing away money.
3. Phone: Same for your mobile phone bill or broadband – loads of people are overpaying for plans they don’t need. Look at 48.ie or www.gomo.ie – cheap monthly SIM only plans; you could save €30+ per month if you already have a handset and an out of contract plan.
4. Gym memberships: Don’t sign up unless you are definitely going to use it. There are lots of pay as you go options, and walking and running only cost a pair of shoes.
5. Pension: Prop up your pension! It is really important to have a good pension plan in place and to be saving towards it regularly. If you are paying tax at 40% you can save €40 tax on every €100 you put in to your pension. Have a plan for when you want to retire and how much you will need to live on, go and see your financial broker and find out how much you need to fund – it may be less than you think.
6. Protection: Please also review your life assurance and income protection – it is upsetting how many people with dependents don’t have adequate cover considering how inexpensive it can be (less than the aforementioned TV subscription). It is very straightforward to get a policy set up with your financial broker.
7. Mortgage: Switch your mortgage – if you are in the fortunate position to own your home, with mortgage rates dropping it is well worth checking if there are savings to be made. You might think 0.5% of a rate difference isn’t a lot – but it makes a massive difference to the amount you will pay back in the end. Also if you can afford it, a lump sum repayment will seriously reduce your total interest bill. If you want a simple spreadsheet to illustrate this, email blewis@lewisco.ie and I’ll send it to you – I was amazed at the difference it made.
8. Car finance: Is Santa bringing you a new car in 2025? Look out for 0% finance deals from the garages. Buy second hand/ex demo to reduce the impact of new car depreciation. Buy an electric car through your company – BIK tax free if it originally cost less than €50,000.
9. Voucher: Pay yourself a voucher of up to €1,000 if you are an employer – do it before the year end. You’ve earned it!
10. Save: Set yourself a savings target of at least €200 per month if you can afford it – set it to go out by standing order just after your salary lands. By the end of the year you’ll have nearly €2,500 accumulated.
11. Eat: If you are in the office, try to spend less on your office lunches and takeaway coffees which can add up to a lot of money – €10 per day 4 days/week is €1,800 per working year (after tax money).

 

So set a target over Christmas to implement at least a few of the above, your wallet will thank you. Wishing you a very happy Christmas and best wishes for 2025.

Ben Lewis, Lewis & Co Chartered Accountants, www.lewisco.ie 01-2110000

 

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