First Stage Development Grant

About this scheme

The First Stage Development (Céad Chéim) grant is a business start-up support aimed at microenterprises in early-stage development, generally within the first eighteen months of the business being set up, targeted specifically at individuals or sole traders establishing a business for the first time in the Gaeltacht and engaged in (or intending to engage in) manufacturing or eligible internationally traded services. Support is available towards five categories of expenditure — a 'Start your own business' course, an accounting and training/mentoring package, computer or other equipment, marketing consultancy support, and preparation of an Irish language plan — each funded at 50% up to its own cap. Across all categories combined, the total maximum grant available is €8,000. As with other schemes, the grant is paid on receipt of a valid claim supported by documentation confirming that all grant conditions were met and approved expenditure was paid.

Who can apply

• Aimed at individuals/sole traders setting up for the first time in business in the Gaeltacht
• Must be engaged in, or intend to engage in, manufacturing and/or eligible internationally traded services
• Generally available within the first eighteen months of setting up the business
• Eligible costs and per-category grant caps (all at 50% of eligible cost): 'Start your own business' course (course fee & travel) - max €500; accounting and training/mentoring package - max €2,000; purchase of computer/other equipment - max €2,000; marketing consultancy support - max €2,500; preparation of an Irish language plan (with language awareness course and/or attending Irish language classes) - max €1,000

How to apply

1. 1Contact the relevant Údarás na Gaeltachta regional office (Donegal, Mayo, Galway, Kerry, Cork, Waterford or Meath) for advice and support.
2. 2Complete a grant application form, available at www.udaras.ie or from any regional office.
3. 3Submit the completed application form to the appropriate regional office.
4. 4If approved, financial support applies from the date of issue of the Letter of Acknowledgement of receipt of application; grant aid cannot be approved retrospectively for expenditure incurred before this date.
5. 5As a condition of funding, implement a language plan to promote the use of Irish in the business.
6. 6Claim the grant by submitting a valid claim with supporting documentation confirming that all grant conditions were met and that all approved expenditure has been paid.