Over 300 Irish SMEs have spoken – and confidence is cooling. Read the latest findings from our SME Business Sentiment Survey with Chartered Accountants Ireland, covering costs, funding, and the challenges ahead.
Chartered Accountants Ireland, in partnership with GRID Finance, conducted a second Business Sentiment Survey in November 2025 amongst both its practice and business members focusing on Small/Medium Enterprises (SMEs) based in the Republic of Ireland. The report highlights some shifts in sentiments vs the 1st report conducted in May 2025.
Chartered Accountants Ireland, in partnership with GRID Finance, conducted a Benchmark Business Sentiment Survey in April 2025 amongst both its practice and business members focusing on Small/Medium Enterprises (SMEs) based in the Republic of Ireland.
A comprehensive analysis of Ireland’s SME landscape reveals key insights into financial health, business outlook, and policy needs. Essential reading for understanding the evolving SME sector and its future direction.
72% of SMEs report good financial health in 2025, up from 60% in 2023, signalling increased resilience across the sector.
35% of businesses expect improvement in 2025, while only 14% anticipate a decline – revealing growing confidence despite economic challenges.
74% of SMEs feel the government doesn’t understand their needs when formulating policy, highlighting crucial communication needs.
79% of businesses report significant impact from energy costs, with similar pressures from raw materials affecting 78% of SMEs.
Business Leaders & SME Owners
Our mission is to accelerate the success of SMEs, supporting employment and economic growth. At GRID Finance we provide quick and easy access to capital, advice, and tools to help SMEs grow and thrive.
Your business already demands endless dedication. GRID Finance makes the growth and success you deserve more achievable with affordable loans, invaluable information and expert support. So you can look forward to:
Flexible loans and analytics tools accelerate business expansion.
Streamlined systems drive faster decisions and simpler administration.
Deep-dive analytics deliver the 20:20 financial insights essential for creating more effective strategies.
