Executive Summary

The following recommendations were captured as part of Ibec member workshops, a member wide survey and were reviewed and endorsed by founder members across relevant trade associations.

Note that survey respondents were predominantly from the medical technology, technology, food, drink, and engineering sectors. 40% were founded post 2015, 35% were founded 2000-2017 and 25% were founded pre-1999.

The high level recommendations listed below, can be explored further in the report. What is clear is that founder-led enterprises need the right incentives, supports and ecosystem to flourish, and that their contribution to economic prosperity and a thriving ecosystem needs further recognition.

Find out more, download our report

Summary high level recommendations

  • Fit for purpose and accessible funding and incentives: Advocate for fit-for-purpose funding supports which are simple, accessible, and granted in a timely fashion. In particular, improve tax incentives such as Capital Gains Tax Relief.
  • R&D Tax Credit & Employment Incentive and Investment Scheme and produce an SME tax roadmap.
  • Talent to thrive: Ensure that the talent, skills and labour market is constantly reviewed to be agile, informed and interconnected to respond appropriately and in a timely fashion to the fast paced changing business model.
  • Digital readiness: In particular intensify support for enterprise in its digital transition, to ensure our continued competitiveness.
  • Regulatory Impact Assessments must be completed before rolling out any new regulations, to assess impact on start-up in particular.

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For more than 30 years, Ibec and its 39 trade associations have delivered results for key sectors of the Irish Economy. We support thousands of businesses of every size, spanning every sector of the economy.

Together with our 39 trade associations, we promote a positive business environment in Ireland by campaigning for evidence-based policies that are formulated in consultation with our members.

For any questions or enquiries, please call us on 01 605 1500 or

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Sharon Higgins

Executive Director, Membership & Sectors