Lean for Business

Lean tools and techniques are helping companies across the globe to address competitiveness issues within their businesses by building the capability of their people to identify problems, improve operations and create a more innovative organisation. In a nutshell, Lean is about doing things quicker, better and saving costs.  

Am I eligible to apply?

The programme is open to:

• All micro-enterprises with up to ten employees and
• Non Enterprise Ireland/IDA clients employing between 10-50 on a limited basis in consultation with the LEO except those involved in activities that the Local Enterprise Offices consider as ineligible (primary agricultural, fishery or aquaculture, coal and steel sectors) and those involving an unacceptable reputational risk including gambling, ‘gaming’ (as defined in the Gaming and Lotteries Act 1956), adult entertainment, tobacco products and cannabis-based products which are not authorised as medicines).
• In general start-up businesses do not avail of the lean programme however start-ups that are trading for a minimum of 6 months and have generated revenues in excess of €30k may be considered. Companies forming part of a holding group, franchise, linked companies etc. are only permitted to make one application. Multiple applications will not be considered.

The Lean for Business scheme falls under De Minimis rules relating to previous state support.  De Minimis Aid is small amounts of State Aid given to an enterprise which cannot exceed €300,000 over any three fiscal years to any company irrespective of size and location. De Minimis Aid can come from any State body, agency or department.

How do I apply?

All applications for Lean for Business should be discussed with your Local Enterprise Office

Further information

For further information on eligibility and to discover how Lean for Business can make your business more competitive visit our Lean for Business page on the Laois Local Enterprise website