Start-ups receiving financial support from the Local Enterprise Office created 95 jobs in Galway last year, up from 79 in 2016.

Companies receiving assistance from the LEO employed a total of 1,039 people across Galway city and county in 2017 across a wide range of sectors.

First set up in 2014, Local Enterprise Offices are meant to serve as a “first stop shop” for anyone interested in starting a business who could use information and support.

The latest Impact Report from Department of Business, Enterprise and innovations shows that 3,760 jobs were created at businesses supported by Enterprise Ireland last year.

The most active LEO by a significant margin was in Tipperary which saw 262 jobs created at companies it provided support to.

Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation Heather Humphreys congratulated LEO’s on the work they did nurturing businesses.

“In a challenging business environment, Local Enterprise Office clients have contributed substantially to economic development throughout the country, especially outside of the main urban centres.”