Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs) supported 7,104 jobs last year, reaching a record number, RTÉ reported today.
LEOs financially supported 39,541 jobs overall in the year, up from 38,726 the previous year.
There was a net employment gain of 2,459 jobs – which was also up on the 2023 figure of 2,131.
LEO-supported businesses saw a total of 7,104 jobs created in 2024, which was a 7% employment increase compared to 2023.
Some 81% of all new jobs created by LEO-supported companies were outside of the Dublin region, official figures show.
‘Support System Available’
The report for last year also highlights specific challenges and opportunities in the business sector, with many employers reporting problems around finding and retaining staff.
The Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Peter Burke said, “The 31 Local Enterprise Offices continue to be the primary anchor for economy development in communities across the country.
“Our LEOs ensure that every small business, regardless of location, has a support system available to them, no matter their concern.”
The chair of the LEOs John Magee said that year on year, LEOs are continuing to support the growth of small businesses across the country.
Magee said, “We are delighted to report 11 years of continuous growth and our continued support for new businesses and the new jobs they create is a testament to the quality and resilience of the entrepreneurs we have across the country.”
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