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Enterprise Ireland

Proof of Concept Funding

Funds third-level researchers up to €100,000 to move research toward market readiness.

Between cyclesEnterprise IrelandIreland

Enterprise Ireland frames the fund's purpose as de-risking early-stage technologies and speeding their path toward commercialisation, part of a broader effort to bridge the gap between academic research and industry and help create high-potential startups from Irish research. Proof of Concept Funding sits alongside two existing supports under the same Commercialisation Fund umbrella, the Feasibili

This new stream under Enterprise Ireland's Commercialisation Fund is aimed at third-level researchers, including postdoctoral scientists on contract, who want to take research and technology through its first steps toward market readiness. It funds activities such as customer discovery, prototype development and early-stage human-use studies to validate technical feasibility and market need.

CycleiHow often this grant runs - e.g. annually, on a rolling basis, or a one-off call.No fixed schedule
Next deadlineiThe next date applications are due. Rolling means you can apply any time.-
Decision timeiTypical time from the deadline to the funder's decision.-
Project durationiHow long the funded work is expected to run.-
Award typeiThe form of funding - grant, equity, loan, tax credit, etc.Grant
Match fundingiThe share of project costs you must cover yourself. 0% = fully funded.-
Funding pooliThe total budget available across all awards in this round.-

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