Top Venture Capital Firms in Ireland: Funding Opportunities for Startups in 2025
Ireland has rapidly emerged as a global hotspot for startups, blending a rich history of innovation with a forward-thinking entrepreneurial spirit. With venture capital investments surging to €651 million in the first quarter of 2025 alone, the country is proving to be a fertile ground for ambitious founders. From cutting-edge MedTech innovations to transformative SaaS solutions, Ireland’s startup ecosystem is thriving across diverse sectors. But what truly sets Ireland apart is its robust network of venture capital firms, accelerators, and government-backed initiatives that empower startups to scale globally.
In this article, we’ll explore the top venture capital firms in Ireland, their unique investment theses, and how they’re shaping the future of entrepreneurship in the Emerald Isle. Whether you’re a founder seeking funding or simply curious about Ireland’s dynamic startup landscape, this guide will provide valuable insights into the key players driving innovation.
Ireland’s Top VCs
Frontline Ventures
About: We back B2B SaaS companies with international ambition. Whether you’re at an early stage with sights on the US, or at a later stage looking to the rich potential of Europe, we can help you get where you want to go.
Thesis: Frontline is the venture firm for globally ambitious B2B companies on both sides of the Atlantic
NDRC
About: NDRC is a business that transforms entrepreneurial teams and ideas into startups with early investment and research help. We're an Accelerator providing €100k SAFE to ~10 companies per cohort.
Traction metrics requirements: Pre-seed. Team and Opportunity
Thesis: Digital B2B Mature founders with deep domain knowledge
Techstart Ventures
About: Techstart Ventures is a leading investor of seed capital across Scotland and Northern Ireland.
Act Venture Capital
About: ACT is Ireland's leading independent venture capital company and they have a very experienced and successful investment team. They provide capital to growth-oriented private companies in the range of €750K to €15M. Larger sums can be provided in syndication with their institutional investors. In December 2002, ACT closed its third fund at €170 million. ACT now manages €350 million through a number of venture capital funds.
Sweetspot check size: $ 1M
Thesis: We invest in talented founders, and support them to build exceptional companies.
VelocityDAO
Sweetspot check size: $ 1M
Traction metrics requirements: In 90 days we have book $2M in revenue realized $600k, we have disrupted the early stage venture capital space in Web3 and have 14 companies in 2 cohorts with 7 on the way to $1-2M in working capital funding with 7 others set to launch in the fall and 100 more in our pipeline. We have a $50M AUM Fund, we have spent $0 and acquired 5 different startups. We have and are on track to close 2024 (started in May) at $14-$40M and a web2 VC valuation of $200-$500M with soverign wealth funds requesting us to handle their portfolios, tokenization and we have an entire off-chain arm focused on a search and succession fund in waste while being the ONLY organization in the world able to take advantage of non-dulutive funding without any limit via Tribal (native american) lands and the 1 of 3 "Super 8a" Organizations with whom we are funding, acquiring, building, producing and tokenizing impact assets that blackrock, van eck, franklin templeton and more are looking to use our RWA Stable Coin built by a portco (live mainnet in December) to bring liquidity to 11 figure portfolios in real-estate, oil and other commodities. This has been done with 1.5 humans and now we have 18 months of runway at an inflated $200k a month with the addition of 8-10 new hires and managing teams within groups we own to the tune of 50+ people. Our group has assets worth close to 10 figures in hand and we simple work to HELP FOUNDERS and then help funds in a novel way that we have been approached 3x for $100M+ LPs via tier 1 funds.
Thesis: Our investment thesis centers on building businesses, not projects. We focus on scalable technologies and products that integrate into existing industries, rather than simply promoting Web3 as an industry unto itself. This approach reflects a fundamental shift in perspective, positioning VelocityDAO as a transformative force in early-stage capital deployment.
Atlantic Bridge Ventures
About: Atlantic Bridge Ventures is a Pan European venture capital company with offices in Dublin and London. Atlantic Bridge focuses on making early and mid stage technology investments in semiconductors and software across Europe with a strong focus on a transatlantic business building and investment exit model. Atlantic Bridge brings together a unique team of technology entrepreneurs, corporate finance and investment experts.
Thesis: We invest in entrepreneurs with the ambition to create world-class companies of scale
Kernel Capital
About: Kernel Capital is a Central Bank of Ireland regulated and UK Financial Conduct Authority authorised venture capital firm based in Ireland. Operating from Cork, Belfast and Dublin, Kernel Capital is focused on investment and international M&A engagement with IP rich companies that innovate through: Silicon Chip Design, Photonics, Micro-Fluidics, Sensors and Systems and Data Management, all sectors with significant AI opportunities.
Thesis: Kernel Capital have led 80+ portfolio companies, employing 1,200+ in mid-market corporate transactions (€25M - €125M) across the US, Europe, and Asia, completing 25+ trade sales, two IPOs (ISEQ & AIM) and a number of MBO’s. Led and completed 250+ fundraisings, on behalf of our portfolio of Irish technology companies, in aggregate raising €1.5BN+.
Fountain Healthcare Partners
About: We are a venture fund providing risk capital and expertise to ambitious entrepreneurs building outstanding life sciences companies.
Delta Partners
About: Delta Partners is a venture capital firm investing in Ireland and the United Kingdom. It was established in 1994 and has €230 million under management. The firm has a strong focus on investing in early stage technology companies, and the team has made over 50 investments in the following sectors: Information Technology, Communications, and Healthcare.
Delta Partners is among the most active early stage investors in Europe. The partners backgrounds in operations, strategy and finance complement the drive and ambition of entrepreneurial management teams.
Seroba Life Sciences
About: Seroba is a leading European life sciences venture capital firm focused on value creation through backing winning innovations in biotech and medtech.
Heritage Ventures
About: Heritage Ventures is a global Investment company based in Ireland with a broad portfolio of tech high-quality products and services. We identify and finance companies during their start-up phase and provide established companies with additional capital for their growth plans during the expansion.
Ireland’s Startup Landscape
Ireland has emerged as a dynamic hub for startups, driven by a combination of government support, a skilled workforce, and a thriving innovation culture.
Key Statistics on Ireland’s Startup Growth
Ireland’s startup ecosystem continues to thrive, with significant growth in venture capital investments and a strong focus on innovation. Here are the latest statistics:
- In 2024, venture capital investments in Ireland totaled €608.44 million across 98 deals, despite global funding challenges. This marked a slight decline from €740.49 million in 2023, but the final quarter of 2024 showed a strong rebound with €247.22 million raised across 29 deals.
- The first quarter of 2025 has already seen a surge in funding, with €651 million raised, surpassing the same period in previous years.
- Key sectors driving this growth include biotech, health, fintech, and artificial intelligence, with companies like Nuritas and Nuitée securing significant funding rounds.
Sectors Driving Innovation
Ireland’s startup ecosystem is characterized by its diversity, with several sectors leading the charge in innovation:
- MedTech: Ireland is home to groundbreaking MedTech startups like Luminate Medical and CroíValve, which are transforming healthcare.
- Artificial Intelligence (AI): Companies like Protex AI and Deciphex are leveraging AI to revolutionize workplace safety and pathology, respectively.
- Software as a Service (SaaS): SaaS startups such as Tines are automating cybersecurity processes at scale.
- AgriTech: Yield Lab and other AgriTech-focused firms are driving sustainable innovations in agriculture.
Role of Government Initiatives
The Irish government plays a pivotal role in fostering a supportive startup environment. Enterprise Ireland, the government agency responsible for supporting Irish businesses, has launched a new five-year strategy (2025-2029), "Delivering for Ireland, Leading Globally." This strategy aims to:
- Support 1,000 new startups by 2029.
- Increase export sales by Enterprise Ireland-supported companies to €50 billion.
- Create 275,000 jobs in Enterprise Ireland-supported companies.
Additionally, programs like the Startup Entrepreneur Programme (STEP) simplify the process for international entrepreneurs to establish businesses in Ireland, further enhancing the country’s appeal as a startup destination.
Key Networking Events
Ireland offers a vibrant ecosystem for entrepreneurs, with numerous networking events, accelerators, and communities designed to foster collaboration and growth. Here are some of the key opportunities for founders to connect and thrive.
- Dublin Tech Summit: One of Europe’s largest tech conferences, the Dublin Tech Summit brings together global leaders in technology, innovation, and business. It offers founders the chance to network with investors, industry experts, and fellow entrepreneurs.
- Web Summit: Held annually in Lisbon but with strong Irish roots, the Web Summit attracts startups and investors from around the world. It’s a must-attend event for Irish entrepreneurs looking to scale globally. The Irish Startup Network by Web Summit is an initiative aimed at supporting Ireland's startup community. It selects 24 of Ireland’s top startups to attend Web Summit in Lisbon for free. The program connects these startups with Web Summit’s global network, providing opportunities for exposure, networking, and growth. Applications for the 2025 program are now open.
- All-Ireland Entrepreneurs Summit: This event, hosted in Dublin, gathers over 500 entrepreneurs, CEOs, and thought leaders. It features outcome-based networking sessions, making it an excellent platform for generating leads and building partnerships.
Role of the Irish Diaspora
The Irish diaspora plays a significant role in supporting startups. Initiatives like Elkstone’s global network connect Irish entrepreneurs with investors and mentors abroad, helping them expand into international markets. As noted by IrishCentral, the diaspora’s involvement is crucial for startups looking to scale globally, providing capital and strategic connections.
Resources for Startups in Ireland
Ireland offers a robust ecosystem for startups, with a variety of government grants, co-working spaces, and advisory services to support entrepreneurs.
Government Grants and Funding Programs
- Enterprise Ireland’s Seed and Venture Capital Scheme: This program provides funding to early-stage startups through partnerships with venture capital funds. It aims to foster innovation and help Irish companies scale globally.
- Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs): LEOs provide financial assistance, training, and mentoring to small businesses across Ireland. Key grants include:
- Priming Grants: Up to €150,000 for startups in their first 18 months.
- Feasibility Study Grants: Up to €15,000 to assess market demand for a product or service.
- Innovation Vouchers: These vouchers, worth €5,000, help startups collaborate with academic institutions to develop innovative solutions.
Co-Working Spaces and Innovation Hubs
- Guinness Enterprise Centre (GEC): Located in Dublin, the GEC offers co-working spaces, private offices, and access to a vibrant entrepreneurial community. It also provides mentorship and networking opportunities.
- Dogpatch Labs: Situated in Dublin’s CHQ Building, Dogpatch Labs is a leading innovation hub offering co-working spaces, accelerator programs, and access to a network of investors and mentors.
- Portershed (Galway): This innovation hub supports startups in the west of Ireland with office spaces, events, and access to a collaborative community.
- Republic of Work (Cork): A co-working space in Cork that provides startups with office facilities, networking events, and access to business mentors.
- NDRC: The National Digital Research Centre (NDRC) is a leading accelerator in Ireland, offering mentorship, funding, and resources to early-stage startups. It has helped launch numerous successful companies in sectors like fintech and healthtech.
Legal and Financial Advisory Services
- Startup Legal Advice: Law firms like Mason Hayes & Curran and Matheson specialize in services for startups, including company formation, intellectual property protection, and compliance.
- Financial Advisory Services: Firms such as Grant Thornton and KPMG offer financial planning, tax advisory, and funding strategy services tailored to startups.
Connect With Investors in Ireland Using Visible
At Visible, we often times compare a fundraise to a B2B sales and marketing funnel. At the top of your funnel, you are finding new investors. In the middle, you are nurturing and pitching potential investors. At the bottom of the funnel, you are working through diligence and ideally closing new investors.
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