Growth and Sustainability Loan Scheme
A loan of €25,000 to €3 million over 7 to 10 years at a reduced interest rate. Rates vary by lender. Loans that meet the climate action and sustainability criteria get an extra 0.25% discount.
Last checked October 2026
What it is
A low-cost, government-backed business loan of €25,000 to €3 million over 7 to 10 years, for eligible small and medium businesses, small mid-caps, farmers, foresters and fishers. It is for long-term investment in growing the business and making it more resilient, or in climate action and environmental sustainability. Loans up to €500,000 are available unsecured. It cannot be used to refinance an existing term loan. AIB, Bank of Ireland and PTSB reopened for applications on 12 October 2026, with Close Brothers and Finance Ireland expected in the coming weeks. It runs to 30 June 2029 or until it is fully subscribed.
Who can get it
- You run an eligible small or medium business or small mid-cap, or you are a farmer, forester or fisher
- The loan is for long-term investment in growth and resilience, or in climate action and environmental sustainability
- You are not using it to refinance an existing term loan
- Rates vary by lender but are reduced from standard rates. Businesses that meet the climate action and sustainability criteria get an extra 0.25% discount.
- Loans up to €500,000 are available without security.
- AIB, Bank of Ireland and PTSB reopened for new applications on 12 October 2026. Close Brothers and Finance Ireland are expected to start in the coming weeks.
- The Government announced on 12 October 2026 that the scheme doubles from €500 million to €1 billion and runs until 30 June 2029 or until it is fully subscribed, whichever is earlier.
- An SBCI eligibility code does not guarantee a loan. Each lender makes its own credit decision.
How to apply
Register on the SBCI Hub and fill in the online eligibility form. If you are eligible you get an eligibility code. Bring the code to a participating lender to start your loan application.
Go to the official page →Checked against the official source on 13 October 2026. Always confirm the details on the official page before applying.
Related guides
- LEO Priming Grant
- Back to Work Enterprise Allowance
- Enterprise Support Grant
- Earned Income Credit
- ACORNS
Not sure if this one is you?
Describe your situation in your own words and the assistant shows every support you might qualify for, this one included. Free, no sign up, anonymous.
Check what you might qualify for →Grants change all the time.
Leave your email and I will tell you if the Growth and Sustainability Loan Scheme changes, or a new support opens that fits you. It is free and there is no spam.