Ireland's SME lending comparison

Stop overpaying on your business loan

Compare rates from Ireland's major banks and alternative lenders in seconds. Independent, free, and built for Irish small businesses.

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10+
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3.44%
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€3m
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Rates as of April 2026. Always verify directly with lenders before applying.

Lender Loan type Rate (APR / fixed) Amount range Term Security Decision

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Monthly repayments — ranked lowest first

Understanding your options

Key things every Irish SME borrower should know

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SBCI-backed loans

The Strategic Banking Corporation of Ireland channels EU funds through partner banks to offer below-market rates. Always check SBCI eligibility first — it can save you 1–2% on your rate.

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Green transition discount

Loans for energy upgrades, EVs or sustainability measures often attract a rate discount of 0.25–0.5%. The SBCI Growth & Sustainability scheme offers some of the lowest rates available.

Fintech challengers

Non-bank lenders like Capitalflow and Finance Ireland are taking a growing share of the SME market — offering faster decisions, less paperwork, and competitive rates for asset finance.

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Security requirements

SBCI-backed loans are often unsecured up to €500k. Standard bank loans typically require a personal guarantee or charge over business assets above €100k.

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APR vs headline rate

Always compare the Annual Percentage Rate, not just the headline rate. Arrangement fees (0.5–1%) and guarantee fees can add meaningfully to the total cost of credit.

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Credit union lending

From September 2025, credit unions can lend up to 15% of assets to businesses — a major expansion. For loans under €50k, credit unions are increasingly competitive.

State-backed schemes at a glance

Government and EU-supported lending programmes for Irish SMEs

SBCI / EIB — active

Future Growth Loan Scheme

Long-term investment loans at discounted rates. Up to €3m, terms 7–10 years. Available via AIB, Bank of Ireland and PTSB. Rate: from 3.44% (via AIB for loans ≥€250k).

SBCI — active

Growth & Sustainability Loan Scheme

Climate and sustainability investment plus growth lending. Variable rate from 3.63% (Bank of Ireland, ≥€300k). Runs until 30 June 2026 or fully subscribed.

Microfinance Ireland — active

Microenterprise Loan Fund

Loans up to €50,000 for businesses with fewer than 10 employees who cannot access bank finance. Not-for-profit, flexible terms, accessible nationwide.