Irish accountancy and advisory firm Xeinadin is reinforcing the role of the Employment Investment Incentive Scheme (EIIS) as a critical funding source for startups and SMEs.

As traditional bank lending remains constrained, the scheme provides equity capital that enables early-stage companies to access growth opportunities across sectors such as renewable energy, healthcare, and infrastructure.

Xeinadin’s partners, Mary McKeogh and Anne Hogan, are leveraging decades of combined experience to guide investors and companies through the scheme. Since its inception in 2011, EIIS has evolved from providing partial equity support for projects like wind farms to fully funding initiatives, including nursing homes and smaller solar developments.

The firm’s advisory team performs rigorous due diligence on each project before fundraising begins, focusing on low-risk, commercially sound investments that deliver both tax relief and financial returns. Recent campaigns include a €5.5 million fundraise for Xavian Solar Ltd, expected to be oversubscribed, and a fully realised €10 million nursing home project, which returned capped profits to investors. Overall, Xeinadin has facilitated approximately €50 million in EIIS funding through private placements.

The scheme offers 50% upfront tax relief, mitigating risk while promoting responsible investment. Xeinadin emphasises that first-time investors should balance potential tax benefits with realistic expectations for commercial returns. Renewable projects, in particular, remain lower-risk, offering both financial stability and environmental value.

Beyond capital raising, Xeinadin provides EIIS tax structuring and advisory services to ensure companies meet qualification requirements. The firm assists with reviewing company structures, preparing business plans, and optimising eligibility for all-income tax relief, especially during peak planning periods ahead of year-end tax obligations.

Discover how Xeinadin is helping Irish startups and SMEs access EIIS funding while supporting sustainable growth across key sectors in the full story.