How to apply for a digitalisation grant for your restaurant
To support the digital transformation of small and medium-sized businesses, including restaurants, the Irish government has expanded its Digitalisation Grants under the 2025 budget. These grants aim to help businesses invest in technology that improves operational efficiency and enhances customer experience. Here's a step-by-step guide for restaurants on how to apply:
1. Check Eligibility:
Ensure your restaurant qualifies as a small or medium-sized business (SME). Generally, SMEs are defined as businesses with fewer than 250 employees and a turnover of less than €50 million. Your restaurant must be registered in Ireland and actively trading.
2. Identify Your Needs:
The grant supports various digital investments, such as upgrading point-of-sale (POS) systems, online ordering platforms, digital marketing tools, and data management systems. Assess what areas of your business can benefit most from digitalisation.
3. Prepare a Business Case:
You will need to submit a detailed application explaining how the grant will be used to improve your restaurant’s efficiency or customer service. This should include:
- A clear description of the digital tools you plan to adopt (e.g., new POS systems, e-commerce platforms).
- A cost breakdown of the technology investment.
- Expected outcomes, such as improvements in operational efficiency, customer engagement, or sales growth.
4. Apply Online:
Applications are typically submitted through the Local Enterprise Office (LEO) or directly through the Enterprise Ireland website, depending on your business size and turnover. Check with your Local Enterprise Office for guidance and support in submitting your application.
5. Submission Deadline:
Be mindful of submission deadlines, as grant schemes may have specific application windows. It’s advisable to prepare your documents early to ensure you meet all requirements.
6. Await Approval:
After submitting your application, the approval process can take a few weeks to a couple of months, depending on demand. Ensure your business complies with any follow-up requirements.
How Much Funding Can Restaurants Get?
Under the expanded Digitalisation Grant in the 2025 budget, restaurants can receive funding to cover a significant portion of their digital investments. Here are the key details:
- Grant Amount: Restaurants can typically receive up to €10,000 in funding, covering a percentage (usually between 50% and 70%) of the total cost of digital upgrades. For example, if your planned digital investment is €15,000, you could receive up to €10,000 in support, depending on the grant terms.
- Eligible Expenses: The grant can be used for:
- Upgrading digital point-of-sale (POS) systems.
- Building or enhancing online ordering and delivery platforms.
- Investing in restaurant customer relationship management (CRM) software.
- Implementing data analytics tools to drive sales and customer engagement.
- Enhancing digital marketing strategies, including websites and social media.
Important Notes:
- You may be required to provide proof of purchase or invoices for the technology investments to receive reimbursement.
- The government may also require reports on the impact of the digitalisation on your business, such as increased sales or improved efficiency.
For more information and to start your application, visit your Local Enterprise Office or the Enterprise Ireland website, which provides further details on grant eligibility and application procedures.
By taking advantage of this grant, restaurants can significantly improve their operational efficiency, attract more customers, and compete effectively in an increasingly digital world.
