Over 2,800 SMEs in Fingal receive €11m in grants

Fingal County Council has announced that 2,843 businesses in the county have received €11.04m in grant funding under the Government’s Increased Cost of Business (ICOB) scheme.

Administered by Local Authorities, the ICOB scheme was designed by the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment to help SMEs with the increased costs associated with running a business.

Chief Executive of Fingal County Council, AnnMarie Farrelly said: "Payments through the ICOB scheme provide a welcome cash injection for many small businesses, particularly those operating in the retail and hospitality sectors. Running a small business often presents its own unique challenges, but by utilizing these type of grants, businesses can access essential support that can help them to stay competitive and to stimulate local economic growth."

Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Peter Burke said: “I was delighted to get Government approval for this important Scheme to help small and medium enterprises who are the backbone of our economy. I have spoken to dozens of businesses around the country who availed of the €240m paid out so far and we will continue to work with and support them.

“I would also like to acknowledge the work of the local authorities across the country and thank all the staff involved.  They have contributed hugely to the success of the Scheme.”

Nationally, a total of €257 million was made available under the Scheme.