Ireland’s Funding Gap: Why Private Capital Matters – and How BusinessLoans.ie Helps SMEs Bridge the Divide

Ireland’s ambition is clear: build more world-class exporting companies, scale more indigenous firms, and ensure that high-quality jobs and innovation stay rooted here. Enterprise Ireland’s new five-year strategy aims to back 1,000 start-ups and grow 150 large exporting companies. Scale Ireland and the IVCA have been vocal in highlighting a major obstacle to this vision: the lack of private institutional capital available to Irish scaling businesses.

Recent reports underline the urgency:

• The Department of Enterprise estimates a €1.1bn scaling finance gap over the next 3–5 years.

• Venture capital investment in Ireland has fallen to its lowest level in a decade, down 81% year-on-year.

• Irish households now hold over €163bn in deposits, but very little of this private capital finds its way into domestic growth companies.

This creates a ceiling on how far Irish firms can grow before seeking capital abroad—a pattern that too often results in founders, technologies, and jobs relocating overseas.

The reality for Irish SMEs

While policymakers debate long-term reforms, Irish business owners face immediate challenges: working capital gaps, expansion costs, hiring plans, and technology upgrades. For the fourth consecutive year, 80% of start-ups report difficulty raising capital. Even successful scaling firms raising €15m+ rounds describe the process as “slower and harder than expected.”

The message is clear: funding is the number one challenge for ambitious Irish SMEs.

Where BusinessLoans.ie fits in

At BusinessLoans.ie, we recognise that not every business can wait for pension reforms or government schemes to materialise. Companies need flexible, accessible finance today to:

• Invest in growth and expansion

• Fund stocking and inventory

• Manage cash flow gaps

• Upgrade equipment and technology

• Seize new market opportunities

We work with a wide panel of lenders – from specialist non-bank providers to alternative financiers – to deliver solutions tailored to your business. Whether it’s an unsecured business loan, trade finance facility, asset finance, or revenue-based lending, our goal is simple: keep Irish businesses moving forward without unnecessary delays.

Why it matters now

Ireland risks losing its brightest companies to international markets if the funding gap isn’t addressed. But with the right finance partner, SMEs don’t have to wait for policy to catch up. BusinessLoans.ie helps ensure that ambitious founders can scale locally, compete globally, and keep jobs and innovation here at home.

Ready to grow?

If your business needs funding support—whether €20,000 or €500,000—we can help. Call the BusinessLoans.ie team on 01 55 636 55 or APPLY HERE.

From Subcontractor Pressures to Main Contractor Growth: How We Secured Funding in Days

For many businesses in construction-related industries, cash flow pressures are a constant challenge. Subcontractors often get squeezed, with turnover dropping and creditor days pushing out. And when cash flow tightens, banks are rarely quick to step in with support.

That was exactly the position of one of our recent clients. Despite a fall in turnover, they had a clear plan for the future: move away from subcontracting and take control as a main contractor. With strong contracts already lined up, they simply needed a funding partner who believed in their growth potential.

At BusinessLoans.ie, we arranged the finance they needed — approved within days and structured over a three-year term. The rate was a little higher than what they had been used to with their bank, but this time there was something far more valuable: a lender who backed their vision. Better still, with no early repayment penalties, they had the flexibility to pay down the loan ahead of schedule if performance allowed.

The result? A business once stuck in subcontractor pressures now has the financial headroom and confidence to grow on its own terms.

If your bank isn’t supporting your ambitions, BusinessLoans.ie can. We help businesses across Ireland access the funding they need — fast, flexible, and without the red tape.

Call the BusinessLoans.ie team on 01 55 636 55 or APPLY HERE.

Common Reasons Business Loan Applications Are Declined – And What You Can Do About It

Securing finance can be the key to unlocking growth for your business — whether that means hiring new staff, upgrading equipment, or investing in stock. But not every application gets approved. Understanding the most common decline reasons can help you prepare better and improve your chances next time.

At BusinessLoans.ie, we see patterns every week. Here are the top five reasons lenders say no — and where there may still be options.

1. Missed Payments in Bank Statements

Lenders look at your recent bank activity as a snapshot of how your business is managed. Regular missed payments, unpaid direct debits, or returned cheques raise red flags. If they see affordability issues in your statements, they worry the loan could also fall into arrears.

What you can do:
Keep accounts clean in the months before applying. If there are genuine one-off reasons for a missed payment (e.g. a late-paying customer), explain it upfront. Some flexible products, such as revenue-based finance, can still work for businesses with strong sales but uneven cash flow.

2. Too Much Debt Already

Sometimes businesses simply have no more room for unsecured credit. Even if repayments are up to date, lenders may judge that taking on additional debt would stretch affordability too far.

What you can do:
Alternative structures can help. Invoice finance allows you to release cash tied up in unpaid invoices, while a sale & leaseback of equipment can free up working capital without adding another traditional loan on the balance sheet.

3. No Tax Clearance Certificate

For unsecured business loans, a valid tax clearance certificate is almost always required. Without it, most lenders will not proceed.

What you can do:
Get up to date with Revenue before applying. If that’s not immediately possible, some revenue-based finance providers can be more forgiving and may still provide short-term funding based on your card or online sales performance.

4. Missing Documentation

An otherwise strong business can be delayed or declined simply because the right documents weren’t provided. Missing bank statements, out-of-date management accounts, or being close to a Companies Registration Office filing deadline can all slow down approvals.

What you can do:
Have at least six months’ bank statements and your most recent accounts ready before applying. If accounts are not yet filed, draft management accounts prepared by your accountant can often help move things forward.

5. Limited Trading History

Most lenders want to see at least one full year of filed accounts. Startups and very young businesses often struggle here.

What you can do:
Revenue-based finance can sometimes work from as little as three months of trading, provided you can show consistent turnover. For other options, consider personal savings, equity investment, or government-backed startup supports until you build a longer track record.

Final Word

A decline isn’t the end of the road — it’s feedback. By understanding what lenders look for, you can prepare smarter and position your business for success. At BusinessLoans.ie, we help clients every day find the right funding solution, even when traditional options aren’t available.

Call the BusinessLoans.ie team on 01 55 636 55 or APPLY HERE.

Milestone Reached: 150 Trade Finance Orders and Counting

I’m delighted to share a milestone for BusinessLoans.ie, we’re proud to announce a major milestone: 150 trade finance orders successfully funded for Irish businesses.

Behind this number lies something powerful—real businesses gaining the freedom to grow without being held back by supplier terms or cash flow gaps.

Why Trade Finance Matters

For many SMEs, supplier invoices are one of the biggest roadblocks to growth. You spot an opportunity, but tying up capital in stock or raw materials can drain working capital and delay expansion.

That’s where modern trade finance steps in. With our trusted partners, we make it possible to:

• Sell first, pay later – Get your supplier invoices covered upfront so you can start generating sales immediately.

• Free up cash flow – Stop locking money into inventory or services before you’ve earned from them.

• Pay back on your terms – Repay over flexible timelines, often up to 5 months, without the drawbacks of traditional inventory finance.

It’s a simple, hassle-free way to keep your growth moving.

Real Impact for Irish SMEs

Reaching 150 trade finance orders means we’ve helped business owners in sectors like retail, e-commerce, construction supplies, and manufacturing secure the stock they need—without the stress of upfront payment.

This milestone isn’t just about numbers. It’s about creating breathing room for Irish entrepreneurs to take on bigger contracts, enter new markets, and scale with confidence.

Looking Ahead

150 orders is just the beginning. Demand for flexible trade finance is growing every month, and we’re here to help even more Irish businesses access the funding they need—without the red tape.

If your business needs to buy now and pay suppliers later, talk to our team today. We’ll help you explore your options and see if trade finance is the right fit for your growth plans.

Call the BusinessLoans.ie team on 01 55 636 55 or APPLY HERE.

From Pop-Up to Permanent: Supporting an Expanding Irish Pizza Chain’s Growth

At BusinessLoans.ie, some of our proudest moments are when we can say we’ve been part of a client’s journey—not just once, but again and again. One recent example is an Irish pizza chain that has gone from strength to strength, and we’ve been there with them every step of the way.

The Beginning: Startup Stage and Merchant Cash Advances

When the business first started, the owners had a creative vision: shipping container pizza restaurants set up in forecourts and beer gardens. It was an exciting concept, but like most start-ups, cash flow was tight. Traditional bank lending wasn’t an option at the time, so we arranged merchant cash advances that gave them the working capital to open those first few locations quickly.

Growth Stage: Reinvesting and Scaling

As sales grew, the business reinvested profits into new sites and steadily built its reputation. Each time they needed an injection of funds—whether for stock, fit-outs, or expansion—we were able to step in with tailored finance solutions that matched their circumstances.

Today: A Permanent Home

Fast forward to today, and we’ve just helped them secure their sixth round of finance through us—a three-year term loan to fund the fit-out of a bricks-and-mortar restaurant. It’s a big step up from container units and temporary outdoor kitchens, and it marks their transition into becoming a permanent fixture in the local dining scene.

The Value of Long-Term Partnerships

This deal wasn’t just about the loan. It was about trust built over time. By understanding their journey and business model, we’ve been able to structure finance that makes sense at each stage—from high-flexibility merchant cash advances in the early days to longer-term, lower-cost loans now that the business is established.

Helping Irish Businesses at Every Stage

Every business owner’s journey is different, but the need for the right finance at the right time is universal. Whether you’re just starting out, looking to grow, or ready to make a big investment in the future, BusinessLoans.ie is here to help.

Call the BusinessLoans.ie team on 01 55 636 55 or APPLY HERE.

Green Finance Gathers Momentum as Bank of Ireland Triples Loan Limit

Green finance in Ireland has taken another step forward. Bank of Ireland has announced it will triple the borrowing limit on its Green Business Loan, raising the maximum from €300,000 to €1 million.

The aim is clear: to support more Irish companies and farmers in making sustainability investments that reduce operating costs and carbon emissions.

What Bank of Ireland’s Move Means

• Loan size: Now available from €1,000 up to €1 million

• Terms: Extended up to 7 years

• Rates: Discounted variable interest rates ranging from 4.41% to 6.21%

• Eligibility: Businesses must show sustainability improvements such as:

  • Installing solar technology or renewable energy systems

  • Switching to LED lighting

  • Introducing clean transport or rainwater harvesting

  • Implementing waste reduction measures

John Feeney, CEO of Corporate and Commercial at Bank of Ireland, explained that the bank wants to make sustainable finance “easier and faster to access, with greater flexibility and choice,” while helping businesses both lower costs and cut their environmental impact.

The Bigger Picture: Green Finance Is Growing

This announcement reflects a broader trend: sustainability finance is no longer niche. Banks and alternative lenders alike are introducing products designed to support energy efficiency, renewable adoption, and carbon reduction.

Across Ireland, businesses are finding multiple funding routes to finance green projects, including:

• Specialist non-bank lenders who provide flexible loans for equipment upgrades or clean technology

• Leasing and asset finance providers supporting investments in solar panels, EVs, or energy-efficient machinery

• Revenue-based and working capital lenders helping companies fund green initiatives without waiting for lengthy bank approval processes

This diversification of funding options means more businesses can now access capital — whether they meet traditional bank criteria or not.

Why Green Finance Matters for SMEs

Rising energy costs and new regulatory pressures mean sustainability is moving quickly from “nice to have” to “must do.” Investments in renewable energy or efficiency upgrades not only reduce carbon footprints but also generate real cost savings over time.

With more institutions — banks and non-banks alike — stepping in to fund these transitions, Irish SMEs have greater choice than ever before.

Final Thought

Bank of Ireland’s decision to raise its green loan ceiling to €1 million is a welcome sign of confidence in Ireland’s sustainability journey. But it’s only part of a bigger story: green finance is becoming mainstream, with multiple lenders competing to support businesses in cutting costs and carbon.

For SMEs, the message is clear: there’s never been a better time to explore funding for sustainability projects, whether through a traditional bank or a more flexible alternative finance provider.

New Enterprise Ireland Grants: €150,000 Support for Irish Exporters Hit by US Tariffs

Irish exporters are facing fresh challenges as new 15% US tariffs are introduced on EU goods. For many Irish SMEs, the US is a critical growth market, with over €6.6 billion worth of exports in 2024. But now, more than 450 companies are expected to feel the impact of these tariffs — a squeeze on margins that could threaten growth plans, profitability, and jobs.

To help businesses respond, Enterprise Ireland has launched two new grant schemes, backed by the Government’s upcoming Action Plan on Market Diversification. These supports are designed to help exporters both assess the risks and seize new opportunities in other markets.

What Grants Are Available?

1. Market Research Grant – up to €35,000

   • For companies needing to assess the full impact of tariffs.

   • Helps fund market insights, data analysis, and mitigation strategies.

2. New Markets Validation Grant – up to €150,000

   • Designed to fund market entry strategies into new markets or with new products.

   • Supports practical steps for diversification to reduce dependency on the US market.

Why This Matters for Irish SMEs

The US will remain an important market, but rising tariffs mean Irish businesses must be more resilient and less dependent on a single geography. Diversification takes resources — from hiring local partners, to adapting supply chains, to managing working capital during expansion.

That’s where these grants can provide a timely boost. As Minister Peter Burke explained:

“These grants will provide crucial funding to exporters, helping them to diversify their markets and build resilience into their business models.”

How BusinessLoans.ie Can Help

At BusinessLoans.ie, we see first-hand how unexpected pressures — like tariffs, currency swings, or supply chain delays — can tighten cash flow just when businesses need flexibility. Even if your company secures a grant, you may still need additional finance to:

• Cover upfront costs while waiting on grant disbursements.

• Fund stocking, shipping, or new market entry expenses.

• Support working capital while your business adapts to new trade conditions.

We work with a wide range of alternative lenders who understand the challenges exporters face and can provide fast, flexible finance solutions alongside grant supports.

Next Steps for Exporters

• Check eligibility for the Market Research or New Markets Validation Grants on the Enterprise Ireland website (or speak with your development adviser).

• Plan ahead: grants can take time to process, so consider bridging finance if your timelines are tight.

• Talk to us at BusinessLoans.ie: whether you need a short-term loan, trade finance, or working capital support, we can help you build a funding plan that works alongside Enterprise Ireland supports.

If your business is affected by the new US tariffs and you’d like quick feedback on what funding options might be available to complement these grants, call us on 01 55 636 55 or apply online at BusinessLoans.ie.

Supporting a Rural Agri-Retailer with Fast Finance

At BusinessLoans.ie, we understand the pressures facing rural retailers who supply their communities with everything from farm machinery and cattle equipment to animal health, hardware, fencing, and clothing.

Recently, we worked with a well-established agri-retail store that needed finance for:

• Store upgrades to improve customer experience

• Working capital to smooth out cash flow

• Stocking finance to prepare for demand across key ranges like dairy, grassland products, and calving & lambing supplies

Their challenge was straightforward: they needed fast approval without the heavy paperwork that often slows things down.

• Three-year term loan secured, providing stability with predictable repayments

• Quick turnaround with minimal documentation required

• Better rate negotiated, lowering costs compared to their initial options

The outcome is a rural retailer now fully equipped to keep shelves stocked, support their farming customers, and invest in their future with confidence.

At BusinessLoans.ie, we make business finance simple. Whether you’re in retail, agriculture, construction, or services, we’ll help you find the right funding on the right terms.

Call the BusinessLoans.ie team on 01 55 636 55 or APPLY HERE.

Celebrating Irish Entrepreneurs: The Unsung Heroes Driving Growth

Today is World Entrepreneur’s Day 2025 — a time to recognise the vision, determination, and grit of Irish business owners. From family-run firms to ambitious scale-ups, entrepreneurs are the backbone of Ireland’s economy. They create jobs, serve communities, and drive innovation forward.

But behind every success story lies a constant challenge: finance. Access to the right funding at the right time can be the difference between a missed opportunity and a major breakthrough. At BusinessLoans.ie, we’re proud to stand beside Ireland’s entrepreneurs and provide the financial support they need to keep moving forward.

How Finance Fuels Entrepreneurship

Over the past year, we’ve seen countless examples of resilience and ambition among our clients. Here are just a few:

• Scaling a Fleet to Win Bigger Contracts
  An independent supply chain service provider came to us with growth in sight but limited capacity. With flexible finance, they secured additional vehicles for their fleet, enabling them to take on new contracts and expand their business footprint.

• Bridging Cash Flow for a Cleaning Company
  Even successful businesses can hit bumps when customers pay late. One cleaning business faced a short-term cash crunch that threatened payroll. We provided a quick funding solution so staff got paid on time and operations stayed on track.

• Stock Finance for Seasonal Growth
  A stove and fireplace retailer needed to stock up ahead of their busy season. With tailored stock finance, they were able to increase inventory and meet rising demand without straining cash reserves.

• Winning Projects in Construction
  A civil works contractor needed upfront finance to secure a new project. By unlocking access to funding, they not only won the contract but set the stage for future growth opportunities.

Why This Matters

These aren’t just transactions — they’re proof that with the right financial partner, entrepreneurs can turn obstacles into opportunities. While banks often say no, we look for ways to say yes, tailoring funding solutions that match each business’s unique needs.

On World Entrepreneur’s Day, we want to celebrate every Irish entrepreneur who dares to build, innovate, and push forward. And we want you to know: we’re here to back you every step of the way.

Ready to Explore Your Options?

If you’re an entrepreneur in Ireland looking for finance — whether for working capital, stock, equipment, or growth — reach out to us today. A quick conversation could be the start of your next big step.

Call the BusinessLoans.ie team on 01 55 636 55 or APPLY HERE.

When the Bank Says No: How We Helped a Food Producer Secure Equipment Finance to Fulfil a Major Supermarket Contract

Every so often, the right piece of equipment can transform a business. Recently, we worked with a food producer who had just landed a breakthrough contract to supply a premium supermarket brand. It was the kind of opportunity that could take their company to the next level.

But there was a problem: cash flow.

Their recent bank statements showed several missed payments — not unusual in the food sector where margins are tight and payments can be slow. Unfortunately, this meant traditional lenders weren’t willing to step in, even with the new contract on the table.

That’s where we came in.

The Challenge

• Poor recent bank statements with multiple missed payments.

• Urgent need for equipment to meet a supermarket contract deadline.

• Limited time to get finance in place before the opportunity slipped away.

The Solution

We arranged funding with a specialist non-bank lender who looked beyond the recent banking history and focused on the future upside. The equipment finance was a little more expensive than traditional bank lending — but crucially, it gave the business what it needed to move forward.

The Result

• Equipment purchased on time.

• Supermarket contract secured and fulfilled.

• Business owners relieved and excited for the growth ahead.

For them, it wasn’t just about the cost of finance — it was about unlocking an opportunity that could reshape the future of their business.

At BusinessLoans.ie, we understand that not every business has perfect accounts or flawless bank statements. What matters is potential. If your business has an opportunity but needs funding to make it happen, we can help find the right solution — even when the banks say no.

Call the BusinessLoans.ie team on 01 55 636 55 or APPLY HERE.