Business group Ibec has called on the Government to establish a single web portal for companies to access information on funding for research and development (RD). It claimed it was difficult for people setting up new businesses to get information on the full range of agencies and programmes providing financial support. The group’s new funding guide has identified more than 30 specific supports from more than 14 State and semi-State agencies.

“There has been a lack of clear information on the wide range of assistance available to companies for research, development and innovation activities. It can be quite daunting and time-consuming for companies to navigate the sheer amount of different supports available,” said Ibec director of policy Brendan Butler.