Helping You Get Started — The Right Way
At Gahan & Co, we know that starting something new can feel exciting — and overwhelming. Whether you’ve begun making money online, left a job to chase a long-time passion, or simply want to try something of your own, we’re here for it — and we’re here for you.
Paddy believes that early support and honest advice are game-changers for any new business. That’s why this page exists — to point you in the direction of the grants, mentors, training, and schemes that are already available to help people like you get started with confidence.
“I don’t just want to file your tax return — I want to help you build something that lasts. If you’re serious about giving it a go, then I’m serious about helping you find the right path.”
— Paddy Gahan
🌱 Supports & Advice to Get You Started
1. Local Enterprise Office (LEO) Supports
The Local Enterprise Office is a fantastic place to start. They offer free advice, training courses, and mentoring from experienced businesspeople who genuinely want to see you succeed.
Here are 3 LEO supports worth exploring:
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One-to-one sessions with seasoned business mentors who can guide your thinking and help you avoid costly mistakes. Link : https://www.localenterprise.ie/Discover-Business-Supports/Mentoring/
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Perfect for beginners. Learn the essentials like tax, bookkeeping, sales, and getting your first customers. -
🌐 Trading Online Voucher
Up to €2,500 in grant aid to help you build a website or improve your online store or service offering.
“We’ve seen so many great businesses born out of someone's kitchen, phone, or camera — LEO can help you turn that momentum into a business structure that works.”
2. Back to Work Enterprise Allowance (BTWEA)
From Welfare to Self-Employed — With Support
If you’re receiving a qualifying social welfare payment, you may be eligible for the BTWEA scheme, which allows you to keep your payment for up to 2 years while you build your business.
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Ideal for parents returning to work, creators, freelancers, and new tradespeople.
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You’ll need a solid business idea and a bit of planning — but support is available.
🔗 BTWEA – Government Information
Click on the Link to find out more : https://innercityenterprise.com/
👩💻 Real People, Real Starts
Case in Point – Emma (Content Creator to Entrepreneur)
Emma, a stay-at-home mum, built a following on social media sharing home tips and relatable content. As her page grew, so did her income — but she didn’t know where to go next.
After a chat with Paddy and a referral to LEO, she learned how to register as a sole trader, apply for a website grant, and connect with a mentor. Today, she’s running her own small business with confidence.
“If Paddy hadn’t taken the time to point me in the right direction, I’d still be lost in Google tabs. It wasn’t just tax advice — it was belief.”
💬 A Final Word from Paddy
“There’s never been a better time to start a business in Ireland. Between the support out there and the tech at your fingertips — it’s all possible. My job is to help you make the smartest start you can.”
If you’re building something — or thinking about it — let’s talk. We’ll help you find your feet, connect you with the right people, and get your business off the ground the right way.
Use the form below to contact us and we will reply within 24 hours .
