Across Ireland, Local Enterprise Offices are known as the go-to place for business support, whether you are just starting out or looking to grow your business. We, at Local Enterprise Office Louth, are proud to offer a wide range of training, mentoring, and grants, helping local businesses across the county to get started, grow and expand.

The recent year-end figures for 2023 published by Local Enterprise Office Louth, part of Louth County Council, reveals that enterprise in the county continues to thrive.

Sarah Mallon, speaking on behalf of the Local Enterprise Office Louth team,, shared insights on their 2023 activities: “We supported 19 high-potential local companies with grant aid or financial support in 2023. Typically these companies will drive significant growth, job creation and/or move into export markets in a relatively short time, which is important for economic growth in the county. In addition, 8 of Louth’s former high potential companies have now transferred to Enterprise Ireland, to further assist them in realising their international growth potential.”

She further added, “Throughout the past year, our services have positively impacted local businesses in many ways. Through our Trading Online Voucher Scheme, we assisted 35 businesses in establishing their online presence. Additionally, more than 30 companies benefited from our specialised programmes in sustainability, digitalisation, and lean, all of which help business owners to cut costs, eliminate waste and drive efficiency.”

Training and mentoring is also a hugely important part of the Local Enterprise Office offering. Sarah continues “More than 1,100 clients participated in our training throughout the year. 473 clients received mentoring, which is vital to help business owners to face challenges head-on and to make the most of the opportunities they create.”

Discussing the prospects for start-ups, Sarah highlighted, “Entrepreneurial spirit in Louth remains vibrant, with 135 individuals participating in our Start Your Own Business programme in 2023.”

At the launch of the figures for Local Enterprise Offices nationally, Minister of State for Business, Employment and Retail, Neale Richmond, T.D., said; “These results are a testament to our Local Enterprise Offices, reminding us how crucial their support is both for new businesses, but also in helping existing businesses to grow. What is also evident is the resilience of Ireland’s fantastic small businesses, that have continued to adapt to an ever-changing business environment.”

In conclusion, Sarah said, “We are here to support businesses in Louth, whether they are just starting or already established. We offer a variety of supports tailored to every stage of your business journey. Visit our website www.localenterprise.ie/Louth/ReadyTo to explore how we can support your business in 2024.”