FAQs

Who are Dublin City Enterprise Board?

Like the 34 other City and County Enterprise Boards throughout the country, the Dublin City Enterprise Board Limited was established by the Government in response to an identified need for a local source of assistance for the start-up and expansion of micro-enterprises - those employing less than 10 people. It employs 5 people. The Board held it’s first meeting in October 1993 and launched its first City Enterprise Action Plan the following year.  Since 2000, the Board’s has been working to develop local enterprise as part of National Development Plan.  This work is funded by the national exchequer and EU Structural Funds.

Who do DCEB help?

We help start up and micro businesses within Dublin City that employ up to 10 people.  Larger organisations are assisted by Enterprise Ireland.

What sort of assistance does DCEB provide?

Above all else, Dublin City Enterprise Board is known as a source of financial aid for starting or growing a small business within Dublin City.  This aid is available to eligible small businesses that can demonstrate significant innovation.  It is strictly at the discretion of the Board and is often made on a refundable basis.   Unlike the banks, the Board is willing to take part of the risk alongside the entrepreneur and so does not require collateral and does not impose any interest.  However, bank finance is also a normal and necessary part of the funding package in most cases.

There are specific programmes to cover part of the cost of

• conducting feasibility studies,
• employing additional staff (including the Owner/Manager’s own job in the case of a start-up enterprise), or
  acquiring capital assets.
• The most popular type of financial aid is equity investment by way of redeemable preference shares. In this case, the board purchases non-voting shares in the client’s company.

What is the Mentor Programme?

A Mentor is an experienced business person and/professional employed by the Board to assist you in developing a business plan and to help you access the other services of the Board, such as grants, loans, investment and training. 

Once accepted into the Mentor Programme, you will be invited to attend an Induction Seminar at which the process will be explained and an opportunity given to you to explain your project and request the Mentor with the experience and knowledge your require most.

When you exit the Mentor Programme, you will have a much better understanding of your own ability to run a business and have a good route map to future success in the form of a Business Plan.  For additional information on the Mentor Programme.

How can I get a Grant?

First check to see if you are eligible for financial assistance. There is a list of ineligible projects on the website in the Financial Assistance section. Secondly, assess which type of grant is most appropriate to your stage of business development. There are different requirements for the various types of grants.

 A 'Start Your Own Business' Course helps you prepare a robust Business Plan and prepare financial projections. If you have any queries contact Dublin City Enterprise Board and discuss your application with the Business Advisor.

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