Competitive Start Fund (CSF)

The Competitive Start Fund (CSF) is a government startup grant program administered by Enterprise Ireland, Ireland's national business development agency. The fund provides early-stage investment to help Irish startups start, grow, and scale their businesses with global ambitions. As part of Enterprise Ireland's suite of funding supports, CSF offers grant financing alongside training, innovation, and export development services.

Competitive Start Fund is one of Enterprise Ireland’s grants for startups.

What Is Enterprise Ireland?
Enterprise Ireland is a government organisation that promotes Irish businesses and help them start, grow, innovate and export globally.

As such, Enterprise Ireland offers businesses various services: training programs, export finance solutions, R&D incentive programs and support to develop innovation and competitiveness.

Competitive Start Fund is an investment arm within Enterprise Ireland that aims to accelerate the growth of startup companies with strong potential.

Successful applicants may receive up to €50,000 in funding in return for 10% equity.

In order to apply, your business must have a Minimal Viable Product (MVP) as well as some early customer traction.