Joe Neville (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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72. To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment how his Department, working alongside Enterprise Ireland, is adapting to support the needs of startups in the face of AI and sustainability demands; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32950/25]

Alan Dillon (Mayo, Fine Gael)
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My Department is ensuring that Enterprise Ireland is actively evolving to meet the dual demands of AI innovation and sustainability in its support for startups. Through its 2025–2029 strategy, the agency aims to support 1,000 new startups, with a strong focus on scalable, export-driven businesses.

Recognising the transformative potential of AI, Enterprise Ireland is enhancing its digitalisation and AI adoption supports, offering targeted training, advisory services, and funding to help startups integrate advanced technologies into their operations.

On the sustainability front, the agency is embedding green innovation into its funding criteria and mentorship programmes. Startups are encouraged to develop environmentally responsible solutions, with access to resources that promote circular economy practices and low-carbon technologies. The Pre-Seed Start Fund and High Potential Start-Up (HPSU) programme are key vehicles for this support, with over €27 million invested in 2024 alone.

CeADAR, Ireland’s Centre for Applied AI and the designated European Digital Innovation Hub (EDIH) for AI, plays a pivotal role in supporting startups navigating the dual challenges of AI integration and sustainability. Through its flagship AI Ecosystem Accelerator Programme, delivered in partnership with NovaUCD, CeADAR provides early-stage companies with tailored technical and commercial support to develop and scale AI-driven solutions across sectors such as healthcare, finance, education, and sustainability.

The programme offers access to CeADAR’s AI expertise, mentorship from seasoned entrepreneurs, investor readiness workshops, and collaborative workspace, fostering a vibrant innovation environment. Importantly, many of the supported startups are focused on sustainability-oriented applications such as optimizing energy use, reducing waste, or enhancing supply chain transparency demonstrating CeADAR’s commitment to aligning AI innovation with environmental goals. Funded under the European Digital Innovation Hubs initiative and supported by Enterprise Ireland, CeADAR’s approach ensures that startups are not only technologically advanced but also equipped to contribute meaningfully to Ireland’s green transition

Additionally, Enterprise Ireland fosters collaboration through global networks and research partnerships, ensuring startups can access cutting-edge knowledge and markets. This approach combining financial backing, strategic guidance, and a strong emphasis on AI and sustainability positions Irish startups to thrive in a rapidly evolving global economy.