Troy welcomes record jobs growth in annual Enterprise Ireland report

Local Fianna Fáil Minister Robert Troy, has welcomed the 2024 Enterprise Ireland Annual Report as “evidence that a new era of Irish homegrown business is taking off, and it’s taking root across the country.”

The 2024 report shows that Enterprise Ireland-supported companies delivered a net gain of 6,212 new jobs, pushing total employment to a record 234,454. Crucially, 66% of these new jobs were created outside of Dublin, with over 40% of Irish start-ups now located outside of Dublin.

Speaking on the report, Deputy Troy stated: "We have a formula that works, now we need to double down and support Enterprise Ireland in fostering the next generation of Irish business. We need to see an increase in support for Irish businesses in Budget 2026."

“In a time of global economic uncertainty and trade instability, it’s more important than ever that we back Irish innovation. And the results are clear: the future is Irish, and it’s already underway.

“This isn’t just a Dublin success story. From west to east, and north to south, we’re seeing new opportunities emerge for people in every part of the country.

“What is even more promising is the sectors where this growth is taking place. Employment grew across several key sectors, with standout gains in climate, sustainability and agritech, life sciences, prepared consumer food, and construction. These are the industries of the future, and they’re being built across Ireland today.”

The report highlighted strong export performance across key markets. Exports to Europe rose by 4% in 2024 to €10.63 billion, now accounting for 29% of total exports. Exports to the UK also grew by 4%, reaching €10.52 billion and surpassing the €10 billion mark for the first time. These figures show that Enterprise Ireland-backed companies are continuing to expand their reach across a broader mix of markets.

Deputy Troy added, “At a time when trade with the US faces growing uncertainty, it’s encouraging to see Irish businesses gaining ground in other key markets. The foundations are strong, now it’s about backing these businesses to grow further and lead the next phase of Irish enterprise.