Competitive Start Fund (CSF)
The purpose of the Competitive Start Fund is to accelerate the growth of start-up companies that have the capacity and ambition to succeed in global markets. The fund is designed to enable those companies to reach key technical and commercial milestones. Applications are considered on a competitive basis. Funding is provided to companies who rank highest in a two-phase evaluation process. The maximum level of support per successful application is €50,000, for 10% in ordinary shares in the start-up company, to be released in 2 equal tranches of €25k (5% in ordinary shares for each tranche).
Applicants to the fund should ideally be able to demonstrate the following:
- Be able to clearly demonstrate that product or service has reached Minimal Viable Product (MVP) stage, and that the product is, at a minimum, live in beta.
- That the product or service has demonstrable customer validation ideally with (trial and/or paying) customers.
- A fully articulated proposition addressing a clear gap in the market with market research conducted with customers/potential customers.
- Evidence of innovation, export potential and employment capacity. Clear export market opportunity for the proposed product or service. Clear knowledge of the competitive landscape.
- Clear execution plan outlined, identifying suitable channels to international markets.
Assessments are undertaken on the applications submitted, it is important to note that the greater the progress the applicant has undertaken towards generating sustainable revenues the stronger the application. Applicants proposal should be beyond an idea or concept stage at the time of application for the competitive start fund.
Download Start-up Showcase Directory
All applications to the Competitive Start Fund must be made via the Enterprise Ireland online application system during call open dates.
If you need any clarification on the eligibility requirements contact: csf@enterprise-ireland.com
Upcoming Calls for Applications
Application Support Workshops
Application Support Workshops will be held online by Business Innovation Centres (BIC) nationwide. Workshops are held via Zoom and are free to attend. Spaces are limited, workshops are interactive and participation is welcomed from entrepreneurs and early stage companies. Workshops are also open to internationally based entrepreneurs looking to start a business in Ireland.
Prior registration is required.
| BIC | Date | Time | Registration |
| Dublin BIC | 10th May, 2021 | 2pm-4pm | This workshop is now full. |
| Dublin BIC | 19th May, 2021 | 2pm-4pm | Register here |
| West BIC | 6th May, 2021 | 11am-1pm | Register here |
| South East BIC | 11th May, 2021 | 9:30am-11:30am | Register here |
| Cork BIC | 13th May 2021 | 10am-12 noon | Register here |
Your Local Business Innovation Centre (BIC) in addition to application support workshops can offer assistance with preparing your CSF application.
Contact your Local BIC for more information:
Key contact/more information
For more information on the Competitive Start Fund, please contact:
csf@enterprise-ireland.com
+353 1 727 2202 (9am - 5pm)
We are operating remotely, ideally send an email to csf@enterprise-ireland.com or alternatively leave a message and we will return your call.
If you are not a client of Enterprise Ireland and want to learn more about qualifying and applying for Enterprise Ireland’s High Potential Start-Up supports, go to our Start a Business Section
