13th July 2026
For many small businesses, entering new export markets can be a significant opportunity for growth. The Market Explorer Grant, administered through Ireland’s Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs), is designed to help eligible businesses assess international opportunities and develop effective market entry strategies.
What is this Grant about?
The Grant itself provides financial assistance to small businesses that are planning to expand into new overseas markets. The funding supports activities that help businesses evaluate export opportunities, conduct market research, and build a sustainable approach to international expansion.
The grant is particularly aimed at first-time exporters and businesses with limited export activity that are looking to grow their international sales.
Who Can Apply?
The scheme is available to small enterprises employing between 1 and 50 people that meet the following requirements:
- Operate within the manufacturing sector or provide internationally traded services that are eligible under the programme.
- Be financially viable and able to demonstrate this through recent financial statements.
- Hold a valid Tax Clearance Certificate from Revenue.
- Not currently be supported by Enterprise Ireland or IDA Ireland.
- Have been actively trading for a minimum of 12 months.
- Be registered and operating within the area served by the relevant Local Enterprise Office.
- Show a clear commitment to exporting and international growth. This may include:
- Completion of a Local Enterprise Office export development programme, such as Export Accelerator.
- Participation in a comparable export training initiative.
- Development of an internationalisation or export strategy.
- Existing export sales that have potential for further expansion.
Grant Funding Available
Businesses can receive funding of up to €10,000, covering up to 50% of eligible project costs.
The grant can be used when a business is:
- Exploring a new international market for an existing product or service; or
- Introducing a new product or service into a market where it already has a presence.
Eligible Expenditure
Funding may be used towards a range of activities that support market exploration and export planning, including:
Market Research
Research into customer demand, competitor activity, market trends, and potential opportunities in target countries.
In-Market Consultancy
Specialist advice from consultants with expertise in the target market to help businesses assess opportunities and develop entry strategies.
Trade Fair Participation
Attendance at international trade fairs and industry events to identify opportunities, build contacts, and gain market insights.
Trade Fair Exhibition Costs
Expenses associated with exhibiting products or services at approved trade events.
Overseas Travel
Travel costs directly related to market exploration activities and business development in overseas markets.
Subsistence
Reasonable accommodation and subsistence expenses incurred while undertaking approved international market development activities.
How the Grant Can Help Your Business
Expanding into international markets requires careful planning and market intelligence. This type of Grant helps reduce the financial burden of researching new opportunities and enables businesses to make informed decisions before committing significant resources.
For businesses considering export growth, this funding can provide valuable support in identifying opportunities, validating market demand, and developing a practical route to market.
If you would like to discuss your eligibility or receive assistance with preparing a Market Explorer Grant application, please contact our team.
