Small businesses in Ireland can now reach customers around the world more easily than ever. Exporting creates new sales opportunities, increases revenue, and helps make your business more resilient. However, getting started can involve costs for research, marketing, and market preparation, which can be challenging for very small companies.
The TAME Grant (Technical Assistance for Micro Exporters), provided by Ireland’s Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs), offers financial support to help small businesses explore and develop new international markets.
At CAPIQAL, we support businesses throughout the grant application process in Ireland, the UK, and Europe. We manage everything on your behalf, from checking your eligibility and preparing the required documentation to ensuring full compliance with all guidelines. This allows you to focus on running your business while we handle the paperwork. With extensive experience in Irish grants such as TAME, we help our clients secure the funding they need to grow their exports.
This guide explains the TAME Grant in detail, including what it is, who is eligible, how much funding is available, how to apply, and why it matters. If you run a small business and are considering selling in international markets, this grant can help you take the first step.
What is the TAME Grant?
The TAME Grant supports small manufacturing and service businesses whose products or services can be sold abroad. It covers part of the costs for researching and preparing for exporting, making it more affordable to explore new markets.
The grant funds activities that help you understand foreign customers and get your business ready to sell internationally. It forms part of Ireland’s strategy to support small businesses in growing their exports.
What Costs Does the TAME Grant Cover?
The grant helps to pay for activities that support the development of your export plans. These include:
- Showing products at trade fairs abroad (for example, stand rental and participation fees).
- Producing marketing materials suitable for customers in other countries.
- Building, adapting, or changing a website for overseas markets (such as adding other languages).
- Translating materials such as websites or brochures.
- Creating advertising or content for specific international markets.
- Joining trade events or networking activities abroad.
- Visiting trade shows to gain market knowledge and experience.
How Much Money Can You Get?
The TAME Grant provides up to €2,500. This pays 50% of the costs you are approved for. So your total project can cost up to €5,000.
You can apply more than once a year if you have different projects or markets. The LEO decides each time.
This assistance helps small businesses make real progress without big risk.
Who Can Apply for the TAME Grant?
Not every business can get this grant. You must meet these requirements:
- Have 10 or fewer employees.
- Work in manufacturing or services that can be sold abroad.
- Already sell products or services to customers (not just starting with no sales).
- Be based in Ireland, where a Local Enterprise Office covers your area (all of Ireland).
- Run a real business.
- Do not get money from another government source for the same costs.
The business must show it can really export and grow.
At CAPIQAL, we provide a free assessment to check whether your business is a good fit. We review your team size, type of business, sales track record, and export plans, helping you save time and move forward with confidence.
How to Apply and What Happens Next
The application process is straightforward when you are prepared.
- Talk to your local LEO or a company like CAPIQAL about your export ideas.
- Complete the online application with details of what you plan to do, the costs involved, and the results you expect.
- The LEO reviews your application and discusses it with you. They may ask for more information or quotations.
- A committee within the LEO decides whether the grant is approved.
- You will be informed of the decision shortly afterwards.
- If approved, you complete the work, keep all receipts, and claim the grant back once the activity is finished.
At CAPIQAL, we make this easy for you. We help write your application, gather the required information, and check everything before submission. This reduces your workload and gives you a stronger chance of success.
Why the TAME Grant Matters for Small Irish Businesses
Selling internationally can bring major benefits to your business. It opens you up to new customers, reduces your reliance on the Irish market during slower periods, and introduces fresh ideas through global competition.
Many Irish businesses begin exporting with small, practical steps like those supported by the TAME Grant, such as attending a trade fair or developing a website for a new market.
Ireland has a strong reputation for high-quality products and services. Small companies in sectors like food, technology, crafts, and professional services are well placed to succeed overseas.
The TAME Grant allows you to explore exporting with less financial risk. It gives you the chance to test new markets, learn what works, and build confidence before making larger investments.
Start Your Export Journey Today
The TAME Grant is an easy way for small Irish businesses to grow abroad. Up to €2,500 in grant support can make a real difference.
At CAPIQAL, we are passionate about helping businesses secure grants and achieve success. Our team has supported many clients in gaining approval and ensuring full compliance with all requirements. Contact us and we will guide you through the process from start to finish.
Frequently Asked Questions About the TAME Grant
1. How much money can I get from the TAME Grant?
You can get up to €2,500. This pays 50% of approved costs (without VAT). Your total project can be up to €5,000.
2. Who can apply for the TAME Grant?
Your business must have 10 or fewer employees. You must make products or offer services that can be sold abroad. You need to already have customers and run a real business in Ireland. You cannot get money from another government source for the same costs.
3. What costs does the TAME Grant pay for?
It helps cover the expense of showing at trade fairs abroad, making marketing materials for other countries, building websites for overseas markets, translating materials, and joining trade events abroad.
4. Can I apply after I have already spent the money?
No. You must apply and get approval before you spend anything. You cannot get money for costs already paid.
5. How do I apply for the TAME Grant?
Start by contacting your Local Enterprise Office to discuss your plans, then complete the online application form. Getting support from experts such as CAPIQAL can strengthen your application and improve your chances of success.
