Irish SME Investment Still Below Pre-Pandemic Levels – Here's How We Can Help

A recent report by the Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI), co-authored by the Department of Finance, reveals a concerning trend for Ireland’s small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs): investment levels remain below pre-pandemic peaks, especially in capital assets such as vehicles, equipment, and buildings.

Despite some recovery since the pandemic lows, only 60% of SMEs invested in capital assets in 2023, compared to 64% in 2019. Sectors like construction, retail, hotels, and restaurants—vital pillars of our domestic economy—are struggling to regain confidence in reinvesting, largely due to a series of external shocks including Brexit, rising energy costs, inflation, and higher interest rates.

Investment Matters – Now More Than Ever

Investment is not just about buying new equipment or upgrading premises. It’s a core driver of productivity, competitiveness, and long-term growth. Without it, businesses risk falling behind both domestically and internationally.

While median investment levels rose from €40,000 in 2021 to €50,000 in 2023, this gain doesn’t hold up when adjusted for inflation, meaning real investment power has dropped. Notably, there’s also been a significant decline in climate-related investments, which poses challenges to Ireland’s broader green transition.

What’s Holding SMEs Back?

  • Uncertainty around global markets and the economy

  • Higher interest rates

  • A moderate increase in risk aversion

  • A reduced focus on digital and sustainability-related upgrades

Yet, despite these barriers, access to finance is improving and more businesses are open to borrowing. In fact, the proportion of firms willing to borrow rose from 43% to 47% between 2021 and 2023.

How BusinessLoans.ie Can Support Your Investment Goals

At BusinessLoans.ie, we specialise in helping Irish SMEs access unsecured business loans of up to €500,000 over terms of up to 5 years. Whether you're upgrading machinery, purchasing vehicles, expanding premises, or investing in more efficient technology, we’re here to make your plans a reality.

We also help with asset finance options to spread the cost of equipment, vehicles, or other fixed capital investments—without tying up your working capital.

Why Choose BusinessLoans.ie?

  • ✅ Unsecured loans – no collateral required

  • ✅ Fast approvals – decisions often within 24-48 hours

  • ✅ Flexible terms – up to 5 years

  • ✅ Funding from €10,000 to €500,000

  • ✅ Ideal for capital expenditure and asset purchases

Ready to Invest in Your Future?

If your business is ready to grow, modernise, or gear up for the future, we’re ready to help you finance that journey. Don’t let temporary uncertainty delay permanent progress.

Call the BusinessLoans.ie team on 01 55 636 55 for fast finance quotes or APPLY HERE.