Frank Feighan (Sligo-Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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164. To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the measures being taken to increase the opportunities for people with disabilities to start their own business; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22246/23]

Neale Richmond (Dublin Rathdown, Fine Gael)
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The Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs) are the ‘first-stop-shop’ for advice and guidance, financial assistance and other supports for anyone, including people with disabilities, intending to start or grow a business. In that regard, the LEOs provide a ‘signposting’ service in relation to all relevant State supports available through agencies such as the Department of Social Protection, Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth, the Revenue Commissioners, Education and Training Boards, the Credit Review Office and Microfinance Ireland.

The Local Enterprise Office grant supports are available to all entrepreneurs provided their business meets the eligibility criteria of the support they are applying for. Direct financial grant aid such as the Priming Grant and the Business Expansion Grant are intended for businesses in the manufacturing and internationally traded services that can demonstrate growth potential and include salary costs for additional staff as an eligible expense.

In addition, all entrepreneurs can avail of Local Enterprise Office training, mentoring and management development programmes. Furthermore, Local Enterprise Offices can provide additional support to entrepreneurs such as one to one mentoring or accommodations to assist with the completion of grant application forms or to complete training courses such as Start Your Own Business.

Enterprise Ireland is focused on ensuring that supports for entrepreneurs and enterprise are accessible to all, including people with disabilities. Enterprise Ireland continues to invest in additional content, available on the eiLearn platform and are working in conjunction with stakeholders in the LEOs and third level colleges to develop new programmes and initiatives. TU Dublin has introduced a new course to assist people with disabilities in starting their own businesses and developing their business skills and each participant receives a business mentor through the LEO network.