What is GradStart?

GradStart is an Enterprise Ireland programme delivered through the Local Enterprise Office. It helps small and medium sized businesses grow by supporting the recruitment of graduates.

The programme gives financial support to companies to hire up to three graduates at any one time. Each graduate is employed on a two year contract.

GradStart helps businesses bring in new skills and fresh ideas. Graduates work on real projects that support the company’s growth and development.

Who is Eligible?

Eligible Companies

To apply, a company must:

• Be a client of the Local Enterprise Office
• Employ at least five full time staff
• Operate in manufacturing or internationally traded services

Ineligible Companies

The following are not eligible:

• Partnerships
• Agricultural enterprises (as restricted by State aid rules)
• Charities and not for profit organisations
• Commercial semi state companies
• Trade associations, Chambers of Commerce, sports clubs, and similar bodies

Project Eligibility

To qualify, the project must:

• Be linked to the company’s growth plans
• Be part of the company’s strategic development
• Have a clear role, title, and purpose for the graduate
• Provide suitable workspace, tools, and support
• Include an assigned in company mentor
• Support the learning and development of the graduate

Important: Any change to the graduate’s role after approval may lead to the grant being withdrawn.

Ineligible Projects

• Projects related to sales or marketing activities

Eligible Expenditure

The grant supports:

• Graduate salaries and wages

Ineligible Expenditure

The grant does not cover:

• Recruitment costs
• Bonuses
• Employer PRSI
• Travel or subsistence costs
• Accommodation costs
• Any costs before the application is approved

Graduate Eligibility

Graduates must:

• Have a qualification at Level 6 or higher on the National Framework of Qualifications, or equivalent
• Have completed their studies within the last four years
• Be eligible to work in Ireland for the full two year period
• Provide proof of language skills if required

Graduates can work in most areas of the business, but not in sales or marketing roles.

Ineligible Graduates

Graduates are not eligible if they:

• Do not meet the qualification level
• Are more than four years since graduation
• Do not have permission to work in Ireland
• Already work for the company before the grant is approved
• Are placed in sales or marketing roles
• Are supported by other government employment schemes

Benefits of taking part in GradStart:

For Companies

• Helps attract graduate talent
• Supports business growth and innovation
• Builds skills and capacity in the business
• Provides funding for up to three graduates

For Graduates

• Opportunity to work in growing Irish companies
• Two year placement on a meaningful project
• Support from an in company mentor
• Experience that builds skills and career prospects

How to Apply

You should contact your Local Enterprise Office before applying.

Full details and the application form are available on the Local Enterprise Office website.

For further information please CLICK HERE!