Company start-ups increased 3.9% year-on-year in the first quarter of 2025 to a post-Covid high of 6,340, according to new figures from CRIFVision-Net.

In all, 13 sectors saw an increased amount of start-ups in Q1 versus the same period in 2024, including education (+28%), motor (+18%), agriculture (+11%), construction (+7%).

There was notable contraction in start-up numbers, however, in real estate (-12%), manufacturing (-12%), and the wholesale retail and trade (-5%), perhaps relating to uncertainty created by the introduction of tariffs by the US.

Laois (+100%), Meath (+25%), Roscommon (+24%), Limerick (+23%) and Tipperary (+15%) recorded the highest Q1 increases in start-ups year-on-year.

Counties with large urban populations, including Dublin (+4%), Cork (+3%) and Galway (+2%) experienced a minimal increase in first quarter new start-ups, but Limerick bucked the trend, recording a 23% annual growth rate.

January was the busiest month of the quarter for start-ups as 2,254 new companies were registered.

"This is the strongest first-quarter performance for start-ups since before the pandemic, proving that Irish entrepreneurship is not only recovering but thriving," said Christine Cullen, managing director of CRIFVision-net.

"In every economic cycle, we see moments of challenge and opportunity—what stands out in these latest figures is that businesses are emerging at a steady pace across multiple sectors and regions.

“With strong fundamentals in place, Ireland will continue to adapt to the global economic challenges, while maintaining a supportive business environment where companies can thrive will be critical, as we navigate the month ahead.

"Financial distress indicators do warrant close monitoring but the continued appetite for entrepreneurship highlights that our innovation and resilience remain at the heart of Ireland’s story."

Cullen was particularly encouraged by double-digit growth in sectors such as education and motoring, and the geographical spread of start-up growth suggests that opportunities remain and that businesses are finding ways to thrive despite economic pressure.

“While we are navigating a challenging economic landscape, the rise in startups and continued investment in various sectors suggest that the Irish business community remains proactive and forward-looking," she added.

"This continued dynamism—across sectors, regions, and industries—will be crucial in driving sustainable economic growth in the years ahead."

(Pic: Getty Images)