Ireland’s entrepreneurial spirit is showing remarkable resilience, with nearly 15,000 new companies established in the first half of 2026—the highest figure ever recorded for this period. This 13% surge from the previous year is not just a Dublin story; it’s a national phenomenon, with significant growth spreading across 18 counties. The data signals a robust business environment where the IT and construction sectors are leading the charge, driven by a potent mix of consumer confidence and a clear-eyed response to global market demands
The latest data from credit risk analyst Vision-net by CRIF paints a compelling picture of a nation in a “start-up” state of mind. The 14,949 new companies registered in the first half of 2026 marks a 13% increase on the same period in 2025, a surge that underscores a steadfast commitment to enterprise despite a complex global economic landscape . This is the highest first-half total in the company’s 30-year history of records. The figures reveal a dynamic and resilient market, with businesses sprouting up in cities and towns across the country.
While the economic engine of Dublin continues to hum, this year’s growth story is national. Wicklow led the pack with a 31% increase in new start-ups, followed by Kilkenny (26%), Limerick (22%), and Louth (21%) . This broad-based growth suggests that the benefits of a strong economy are spreading beyond the capital, invigorating communities across the island and creating new opportunities in regional hubs. The diversity of the growth is also notable, moving beyond traditional sectors to embrace a new wave of innovation.
The data shows a fascinating shift in the types of businesses being formed. The Information Technology (IT) sector experienced a staggering 62% increase in start-ups, highlighting Ireland’s continued dominance as a tech hub and the rapid pace of digital transformation across all industries . Motor businesses (+31%), manufacturing (+26%), and construction (+22%) also saw significant increases, pointing to renewed confidence in physical infrastructure and consumer spending . This broad-based economic activity is further underscored by a 45% drop in the total value of commercial court judgments, suggesting a healthier financial climate for businesses .
“The figures are a clear indicator that entrepreneurial spirit and consumer confidence are holding steady,” said Christine Cullen, Managing Director of Vision-net by CRIF . She points to the “phenomenal surges” in counties like Wicklow and Kilkenny and the “massive spike in IT startups” as evidence of a rising tide. This record-breaking start-up activity confirms that Ireland remains a fertile ground for business creation, driven by a workforce ready to innovate and a market keen to embrace new opportunities.