How to start a business

Not only does Ireland’s unique strategic location make it the perfect gateway to Europe and the US, it has also been ranked the best country in Europe for startups by smallbusinessprices.co.uk. In Dublin, you will have access to a young, diverse, highly educated and highly skilled workforce, both Irish and International, who enjoy a great quality of life.

Dublin is particularly well set-up for start-up businesses, with many supports both financial and non-financial in place, especially for those introducing a new or innovative product or service to international markets.

It doesn’t take much time or cost a great deal of money to set up a business here and the process is relatively straightforward. You can operate as a sole trader, partnership or limited company. Companies can be set up in as little as two to four days. See the Companies Registration Office for more.

Tax and customs

For start-ups, Revenue provides a guide to registering for tax – whether it’s as a sole trader, partnership (or trust) or company.

Legal matters and permits

Entrepreneurs coming from the EU and citizens of Norway, Iceland, Switzerland and Liechtenstein can set up businesses in Ireland without needing any visas or immigration permission. Anyone else who wishes to live in Ireland and run a business requires an immigration permission to do so. Enterprise Ireland works with eligible entrepreneurs looking to move to Ireland long term. To learn about additional legal matters, please read our dedicated guide.

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Startup Ecosystem

Dublin’s start-up ecosystem has a reputation for being diverse, welcoming and accessible. Whether you’re looking for funding and investment, supports or just to connect with like-minded startups – as well as more experienced entrepreneurs – we’ve got you covered. Local Enterprise Offices (LEO) The LEO network is the first stop for anyone seeking information and support for starting a business in Dublin. There are four dedicated LEO teams, one based in each of the region’s four local authority areas: Dublin City, 

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Accelerators & incubators

Give your start-up a head-start with accelerators and incubators Dublin is acknowledged as being home to some of the best accelerator and incubator programmes in Europe. These enable entrepreneurs to meet with like-minded people and provide the structure, skills, investment and support they need to prove, launch and scale-up their businesses. Accelerator programmes give developing companies access to industry-specific mentors, potential investors and other supports that will help them to build their start-up. One of Dublin’s most well-known accelerators is NDRC, based in the Liberties area of the city.

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Coworking & Enterprise Centres

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