Paul McAuliffe (Dublin North-West, Fianna Fail)
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2583. To ask the Minister for Rural and Community Development the funding streams available to social enterprises to increase and promote fitness and physical activity; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18555/25]

Dara Calleary (Mayo, Fianna Fail)
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There are a wide range of business supports available to social enterprises through the Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs), provided they operate on a commercial basis and meet the eligibility criteria of the scheme for which they wish to apply.

Many social enterprises may be eligible for supports such as the free Digital for Business consultancy, Grow Digital Voucher, free Green for Business consultancy, the Energy Efficiency Grant, in addition to access to a wide range of high-quality business and management development programmes that are tailored to meet specific business requirements.

The Deputy will also be aware of the National Enterprise Hub, which can be used by Social Enterprises and provides a centralised signposting service for over 250 Government or agency supports from 29 different Departments and State Agencies.

Information and support can be accessed through the website www.neh.gov.ie or by speaking to an advisor by phone or via live chat. This free service makes it easier to access and avail of business supports such as grants, funding, loans and expert advice across a range of sectors, including retail, tourism and hospitality, food and beverages. It also aims to engage with small businesses who have yet to avail of government support.

Another good source of information is the network of Local Development Companies, that can provide information on funding that is available from across a number of Government Departments and State Agencies. Details of local Development Companies can be found at the Local Development Company Network (LDCN) website, .

I would encourage anyone who seeking information on any business supports, or indeed any existing small business owner, to speak with a business advisor in their Local Enterprise Office, visit the National Enterprise Hub, or contact their Local Development Company.