Lean for Business

About this scheme

Lean for Business helps companies in any sector adopt Lean principles and tools to improve performance, competitiveness, and efficiency, reducing waste and driving continuous improvement. It is delivered across all 31 Local Enterprise Office regions, with up to 90% funding available toward the cost of engaging an external Lean Service Provider.

The programme runs in two formats: One-to-Many, where the LEO selects a Lean Service Provider (via tender) to deliver an initial 1–2 day introduction workshop followed by up to five half-day company visits to a group of businesses; or One-to-One, where the company selects its own Lean Service Provider. In both cases, the provider evaluates the company's processes, discusses challenges and opportunities with management, applies relevant Lean tools over several weeks, and trains and mentors staff, concluding with a final report, case study, and metrics submitted to the LEO.

Who can apply

• Open to small enterprises with 1 to 50 paid employees; generally, companies with up to 10 employees in eligible LEO sectors with export/international trade potential are prioritised, while non-Enterprise Ireland/IDA clients employing 10-50 are considered on a limited basis in consultation with the LEO
• Must not currently be a client of Enterprise Ireland or IDA
• Must be established, registered and trading for at least 6 months within the area of a Local Enterprise Office, and solvent as shown in supplied financial statements
• Start-up businesses generally do not avail of the programme, but start-ups trading a minimum of 6 months with revenues over €30,000 may be considered
• Companies forming part of a holding group, franchise, or linked companies are permitted only one application; multiple applications from linked entities will not be considered
• Must be a company, self-employed individual, or partnership whose trade/profession profits are chargeable to tax under Case I or II of Schedule D (or a PAYG customer); eligible sporting bodies and charities that would otherwise be so chargeable but for a tax exemption are also included
• Must hold current Revenue tax clearance and supply a Tax Reference Number and Tax Clearance Access Number for verification
• Ineligible sectors/activities: primary agriculture, fishery or aquaculture; coal or steel sectors; gambling/gaming, adult entertainment, tobacco, and non-medicinal cannabis-based products
• The applicant company selects and contracts directly with the Lean Service Provider (for One-to-One) or is matched with one selected by the LEO after tender (for One-to-Many); the State and its agents accept no liability for products/services procured under the scheme

How to apply

1. 1Contact your Local Enterprise Office to discuss Lean for Business and confirm your eligibility.
2. 2Register to take part through your Local Enterprise Office (all 31 LEO regions run the programme).
3. 3Choose a delivery method: One-to-Many (LEO-selected Lean Service Provider works with a group of companies, starting with an introductory workshop and up to 5 half-day company visits) or One-to-One (you select your own Lean Service Provider).
4. 4Engage with the Lean Service Provider, who evaluates your processes, applies relevant Lean tools and techniques, and trains/mentors management and staff over several weeks.
5. 5On completion, a final report, case study, and metrics are submitted to the Local Enterprise Office.