Three Ireland has announced the launch of its latest Grants for Small Businesses programme, committing a €100,000 bursary fund along with a suite of technical supports aimed at helping Irish SMEs grow.

Now in its fifth year, the initiative combines financial backing with connectivity solutions to give small businesses a practical boost in scaling their operations.

Since its inception in 2021, the programme has delivered more than €750,000 worth of funding, services, products and expert guidance to entrepreneurs across the country.

This support has included marketing and PR assistance, access to Three’s business tools, and strategic mentoring.

For 2025, ten selected businesses will each receive €5,000 in cash and an additional €5,000 in connectivity and device solutions.

The programme is fully funded by Three Ireland and delivered in partnership with small business support platform Enterprise Nation.

Padraig Sheerin, Head of SME at Three Ireland, said: “Three is committed to helping businesses of all sizes across Ireland grow and innovate through our connectivity products and solutions.

“Our grant programme offers small businesses not only financial support but also practical guidance and mentorship from Three’s team of business experts.

“Since the launch of the SME Grant Programme five years ago, the winning teams have experienced remarkable growth and we’re proud to contribute to their success as they continue to expand.”

Adding to the programme’s profile this year is Bernard Brogan, Chief Commercial Officer and Co-founder of PepTalk, and former Dublin footballer, who joins the judging panel.

“Initiatives such as this are crucially important for supporting SMEs in Ireland and providing them with the tools they need to succeed,” he said.

“The business environment is rapidly evolving, with connectivity becoming increasingly central for all businesses.

“Three’s financial and practical support will have a hugely positive impact for the winning firms - I look forward to working on this year’s programme and seeing the high-calibre of different businesses come through.”

Returning to the judging panel is Niamh Tallon, founder of Her Sport and winner of the inaugural 2021 grant.

Reflecting on her experience, she said: “Winning Three Ireland’s Grants for Small Businesses programme was a game-changer for Her Sport.

“The funding and expert support helped us grow our team, boost our visibility, and put the right tech foundations in place to scale as a young business.

“I’m delighted to return as a judge this year, and get a chance to meet the next wave of inspiring entrepreneurs.

“Having experienced the challenges of starting out in business, I encourage all SMEs to apply - you could be the next success story to emerge from the Three SME Grant Programme.”