Donegal LEO Boosts Support for New Businesses in 2026

The Local Enterprise Office (LEO) in Donegal has announced plans to enhance support for emerging businesses throughout 2026. In 2025, the LEO provided assistance to 27 enterprises with grants amounting to over €628,000. This initiative aims to foster entrepreneurship and innovation within the county, benefiting local economies and communities.

The LEO’s operations are primarily financed through Enterprise Ireland, with an allocation of €273,734 from Donegal County Council for the current year. As part of its commitment to nurturing new businesses, the council has pledged to increase funding and resources in the upcoming year.

Key Achievements in 2025

During 2025, the Local Enterprise Office implemented several strategic projects. Notably, it advanced the development of the Food Coast Donegal initiative and successfully delivered the Schools Enterprise Programme to over 515 post-primary students across 14 schools in the region. Additionally, the LEO continued to support the Creative Coast Strategy, which aims to promote creativity and innovation in local industries.

The LEO also achieved recognition at the European level, actively participating in the Enterprise Europe Network and initiating an EU Interreg project. This project focuses on securing Geographical Indication (GI) Status for Donegal Tweed and other local products, collaborating with partners in Finland and Iceland.

Plans for 2026 and Beyond

Looking ahead, the Local Enterprise Office will maintain its focus on core programs and support mechanisms under the Donegal Strategic Enterprise Development Plan. This includes further development of the Food Coast Donegal and Engineering Network, along with the continuation of the Schools Enterprise Programme.

Furthermore, the delivery of the 10X North West initiative aims to assist local businesses in scaling their operations. The LEO is also set to enhance female entrepreneurship initiatives, including the AMBITION pre-accelerator programme, which has received accolades for its impact on diversity and inclusion.

A draft budget of €2,698,823 has been allocated for the Local Enterprise Office in 2026. This funding will empower the LEO to expand its offerings, including pre-accelerator and accelerator programmes designed to propel business growth and innovation in Donegal.

Through these efforts, the Local Enterprise Office aims to create a more vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem, fostering sustainable economic growth in the region and supporting individuals and businesses in their journey to success.