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New Green Enterprise Fund to Unlock Innovation and Sustainability Across the Northern and Western Region

  • Jul 27
  • 2 min read

Could your business be the next green success story?


As Ireland accelerates its transition to a low-carbon economy, a significant new funding opportunity is about to open for ambitious SMEs developing innovative green solutions. From cutting-edge technologies to sustainable products, processes and services, the Green Enterprise Pilot Scheme (GEPS) is set to provide vital investment to help enterprises move from concept to commercial reality.


Launching on Wednesday, 29 July 2026, the scheme represents a major opportunity for businesses across the Northern and Western Region to access grant support, specialist training, and expert guidance designed to drive sustainable growth and innovation.

For enterprises seeking to scale environmental solutions, for policymakers committed to regional development, and for media following Ireland’s green economy, this marks an important milestone in supporting innovation, competitiveness and climate action.



Funding Innovation for a Low-Carbon Future


The Green Enterprise Pilot Scheme (GEPS) offers grants ranging from €30,000 to €150,000 for SMEs developing low-carbon technologies, products, processes and services.

The programme supports projects from Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 4 through to TRL 6, helping businesses bridge the gap between prototype development and demonstration stage.


Delivered by Atlantic Technological University (ATU) as Intermediate Body, designated by the Northern and Western Regional Assembly (NWRA) as Managing Authority, GEPS is funded through the Northern and Western Regional Programme 2021–2027 and co-funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).



Funding Tiers Available


Eligible SMEs can apply under one of three funding tiers:

  • Tier 1: €30,000 – €60,000

  • Tier 2: €60,000 – €100,000

  • Tier 3: €100,000 – €150,000


The funding is designed to support businesses that are developing innovative solutions capable of reducing emissions, increasing resource efficiency, and contributing to Ireland’s sustainability objectives.



Who Can Apply?


Support is available to SMEs located within the Northern and Western Region, including:

  • Cavan

  • Donegal

  • Monaghan

  • Leitrim

  • Sligo

  • Roscommon

  • Mayo

  • Galway


This targeted regional investment aims to strengthen local enterprise ecosystems while creating economic and environmental benefits for communities throughout the region.



Dedicated Training and Upskilling Supports


Beyond direct project funding, GEPS recognises that skills development is essential to long-term success.


A dedicated training and upskilling budget is available to support enterprises regardless of grant tier, including businesses seeking training support only.


The scheme reimburses up to 80% of eligible training costs, with an average contribution of €2,000 per participant, helping businesses build the expertise required to innovate, adapt and compete in an increasingly green economy.



Free Webinar and Regional Advisory Clinics


To ensure businesses are fully informed and equipped to submit strong applications, a series of information events will be held throughout the region.



Upcoming Events


Launch Webinar

  • Wednesday, 29 July 2026 (Online)


One-to-One Online Clinics

  • Thursday, 30 July 2026


Regional In-Person Clinics

  • Sligo – Wednesday, 5 August 2026

  • Donegal – Thursday, 6 August 2026

  • Monaghan – Tuesday, 11 August 2026

  • Galway – Thursday, 13 August 2026


These free sessions will give potential applicants direct access to programme experts, provide practical guidance on eligibility and application preparation, and offer opportunities to discuss project ideas.


Advance registration is required.



The Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme (SICAP) is co-funded by the Irish Government, through the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, and the European Social Fund Plus under the Employment, Inclusion, Skills and Training (EIST) Programme 2021 -2027.


Tá an Clár um Chuimsiú Sóisialta agus Gníomhachtú Pobail (SICAP) cómhaoinithe ag Rialtas na hÉireann, tríd an Roinn Forbartha Tuaithe agus Pobail agus Gaeltachta, agus Ciste Sóisialta na hEorpa Plus faoin gClár Fostaíochta, Cuimsiú, Scileanna agus Oiliúna (EIST) 2021 -2027.

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