Does your business struggle to find the resources or expertise to invest in research and development (R&D)?
With an Innovation Voucher from Enterprise Ireland, even small companies can use R&D to grow and change.
Invest in R&D
For: SMEs registered in Ireland
Amount: €10,000 to €20,000
Cost to you: For a €10k voucher, you only pay the VAT (€2,300)
IP: Owned by your company
Funder: Enterprise Ireland
What are innovation vouchers?
Innovation Vouchers are a funding initiative developed by Enterprise Ireland. They aim to encourage collaboration between public knowledge providers such as higher education institutes and research bodies with small businesses.
These €10,000 vouchers help companies access R&D expertise. This allows businesses to solve challenges, innovate, and drive growth with the support of experts.
By partnering with an expert like Learnovate, SMEs (small to medium-sized enterprises) can benefit from researchers and practitioners in technology, innovation, and learning without needing extensive in-house resources.
Contact our team to applyWho can apply?
The scheme is aimed at companies lacking the time, resources, or expertise to invest in R&D.
SMEs seeking fresh innovative thinking around business challenges are eligible to apply.
Eligible SMEs must be limited companies registered in Ireland, have fewer than 250 employees, and not exceed an annual turnover of €50 million.
First-time applicants must register to apply, and applications are only accepted through the Enterprise Ireland online system.
If you’re unsure about your eligibility, use our quick and instant eligibility checker above.
What is included?
You can access €10,000 in funding to engage an expert to help you develop innovative products, solve pressing business challenges, or explore new technical opportunities.
For larger-scale projects, co-funded vouchers are available, providing up to €20,000 in support, with the business covering half the cost.
Eligible SMEs can use up to four vouchers during their participation in the scheme—three standard and one co-funded.
Already used a voucher?
After a five-year period, you can reapply for additional vouchers.
How to apply
- Identify a business challenge or opportunity you want to explore.
- Choose an Irish higher education institution or knowledge provider to partner with. Learnovate, based in Trinity College Dublin, is the leading expert in learning, technology and innovation.
- Submit your application to Enterprise Ireland.
Once approved, begin your project. Vouchers can be used within one year of being issued, giving you flexibility to start when ready.
Learnovate-supported applications
We are very familiar with the application process and will help guide you every step of the way to ensure your application is successful.
Fees – what it costs you
While the voucher covers €10,000 in R&D services, your company is required to pay VAT of €2,300. This VAT is reclaimable, making the scheme a cost-effective solution for innovation projects.
Why partner with Learnovate?
We specialise in learning, technology, and innovation. Our team of learning designers, technologists, and business strategists can help you:
- Develop innovative learning technologies
- Overcome technology challenges
Explore new opportunities in learning and development
FAQs
New product development, business models, service innovation, or leveraging technology.
Contact us to check if your idea qualifies.
Yes, after completing a successful project, you may be eligible for additional funding.
Yes, vouchers can be used within one year, allowing you to start when ready.
Any IP generated during the project belongs to your company.
Register your interest in funding
Contact us today to discuss your project or get help with your application. Let’s drive your business growth through innovation.