Joe Neville (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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21. To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment given that Enterprise Ireland plays such a crucial role in scaling Irish businesses globally, the key sectors or regions where Enterprise Ireland sees the greatest opportunity for Irish enterprise growth over the next five years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32951/25]

Peter Burke (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael)
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My Department and its enterprise development agencies plays a central role in scaling Irish businesses globally by providing a comprehensive suite of supports that help companies start, compete, scale, and connect internationally. Government policy has fostered a supportive environment for high growth and innovation focused start-ups in Ireland. Under its 2025–2029 strategy, Delivering for Ireland, Leading Globally, Enterprise Ireland focuses on transforming high-potential Irish SMEs into globally competitive enterprises.

However, for Ireland’s high potential start-ups that have the potential to scale-up to become global players, the next step in the growth journey can be challenging. In common with similar firms all over Europe, Irish scaling firms often find that appropriate finance is not readily available.

I am working with my officials to develop policy actions that will enhance the finance for scaling ecosystem in Ireland and help narrow the gap for funding scale-ups.

A key driver of a wider scaling agenda is to encourage export diversification, helping companies to reduce reliance on traditional markets by exploring opportunities in Asia-Pacific, the Middle East, and continental Europe.

Achieving scale is also aided by Innovation and R&D Support. The Government also provides funding and advisory services to help companies develop globally competitive products and services which are crucial is building scale internationally.

My Department has identified several key sectors that hold significant potential for global growth. These include digital and AI technologies, Health tech and MedTech, sustainable food systems, financial services and fintech, construction and engineering, life sciences and biopharma, as well as green and clean technologies.

Across the world, Irish companies are entering new markets, securing new international customers and scaling internationally at an accelerated pace. They make a hugely important contribution to the Irish economy and their growth internationally not only boosts Ireland’s economy but brings investment and job creation to overseas markets.