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"Where businesses thrive, jobs follow. Budget 2026 is a pro-enterprise budget that recognises the critical link between industrial development, infrastructure investment and job creation. In today’s volatile global economy, we are focusing on supporting indigenous enterprise, regional development and tourism to ensure Ireland remains resilient and competitive. We must protect the 2.81 million jobs in our economy, which we cannot take for granted and which are essential to maintain quality of life for our people.
“A competitive economy requires a pro-enterprise tax policy. I am pleased to introduce several targeted measures, including reductions in VAT for hospitality which is particularly important for small and family-run businesses who operate on very low profit margins, increases in R&D tax credits, a significant benefit which will underscore Ireland’s commitment to FDI, enhanced entrepreneur relief, designed to support growth, innovation and job creation. I am also confirming the increase of 65 cent per hour in the National Minimum Wage, implementing the unanimous recommendation of the Low Pay Commission and ensuring our lowest paid workers will see a boost in their wages. This reinforces our commitment as a government to find a balance between a fair and sustainable rate for low paid workers, and one that will not have significant negative consequences for employers and competitiveness.”
“Budget 2026 is firmly focused on enabling Irish businesses to thrive,” said Minister Burke. “This budget delivers for the regions. Through enhanced funding for our Tourism Bodies, Local Enterprise Offices and targeted supports, we are empowering communities across Ireland to grow their local economies and build sustainable futures. The establishment of the AI Office of Ireland will be a landmark step in positioning Ireland as a leader in responsible AI adoption and in our ambition to harness digital innovation for productivity, competitiveness and growth.”
With an allocation of €1.3 billion, including €618 million in current funding and €680 million in capital funding under the National Development Plan (NDP), this budget reflects a clear commitment to building a resilient and dynamic economy.
Over the lifetime of the revised NDP (2026–2030), Minister Burke will oversee a €4.88 billion spend (which includes €1.2 billion of projected income earned by the Enterprise Agencies), enabling sustained investment in strategic enterprise programmes. Total capital investment into the enterprise sector in 2026 will be €800 million.
“Confirmation of the €3.68 billion capital spend under the revised NDP, combined with the expected €1.2 billion income earned by the Enterprise Agencies, will enable not only the continuation of existing capital programmes but also the delivery of multiannual strategic investments, targeting key priorities identified in the Programme for Government and my Department’s Action Plans on Market Diversification and Competitiveness,” said Minister Burke.
Further capital allocations will be confirmed later in the year with additional funding expected from the Shared Island, Just Transition and European Regional Development Funds.
Budget 2026 will also continue to fund Departmental core capital programmes while unlocking new strategic investments that will shape Ireland’s enterprise future. These include.
Minister of State for Employment, Small Business and Retail, Alan Dillon, said, “Supporting small business and sustainable jobs remains at the heart of this Government’s commitment to a strong economy. Budget 2026 strengthens regional development through enhanced funding for Local Enterprise Offices, targeted enterprise supports, and strategic investment in innovation and scaling. These measures will empower businesses to grow, adapt, and create sustainable jobs across Ireland.”
Minister Burke has also ensured that the Department will deliver a series of reforms to ensure programmes remain fit for purpose and achieve maximum value, such as;
A €25.5 million increase in current funding, bringing the Department’s allocation to €618 million, will ensure the delivering of several new and emerging priorities, including:
In addition to this, €4.7m will be allocated to the Department as part of the Revised Estimates Volume to support the delivery of an impactful and strategic Irish Presidency of the European Council in the second half of 2026.
Minister of State for Trade Promotion, Artificial Intelligence and Digital Transformation, Niamh Smyth, said, “Budget 2026 marks a pivotal moment in Ireland’s digital transformation journey. We will continue to provide support to businesses via scaling, Start Up Ireland and Regional Funding. Local Enterprise Offices will also provide invaluable assistance to help SMEs to grow through digital and climate-readiness initiatives. With dedicated funding for the establishment of the AI Office of Ireland, we are laying the groundwork for a smarter, more innovative economy that empowers businesses and enhances public service delivery.”
Minister Burke went on to say, “Budget 2026 is more than a financial plan, it’s a strategic commitment to Ireland’s enterprise base. With targeted investment, significant reforms and a clear focus on innovation and regional development, my Department is laying the foundations for a stronger, smarter, and more resilient economy, ready to face the challenges of tomorrow.”