Digitalisation Voucher
About this good practice
The Digitalisation Voucher is part of Enterprise Ireland’s strategic imperative to increase the digital maturity of Irish enterprise. Research shows that businesses with higher digital maturity see increased profits, exports and employment rates. However, companies with lower digital maturity run the risk of being left behind.
The objective of the Digitalisation Voucher is to facilitate strategic intervention for companies to work with third party consultants to assess their digital maturity and highlight where there is room for improvement. The output of this engagement is a strategic, digital roadmap for businesses.
Process Optimisation, Customer Digital Experience and Data Management have been identified as three areas where Irish companies may have the opportunity to differentiate from their competitor on a digital landscape. With that, the associated risks should always be considered e.g. ensuring that Cyber Security is at the forefront of any digital plan.
The voucher covers digital strategy, technical and/or advisory services from an approved provider up to a maximum of €9,000 where the eligible costs are capped at €900 per day excl. VAT.
Before applying for a voucher, companies must complete an online Digital Ready Scorecard Digital Ready Scorecard to evaluate the digital gaps and strengths in the business and gain insights into digital tools to help your business better compete.
Resources needed
Funding and Staff Resources from Enterprise Ireland.
Evidence of success
In 2021, over 300 companies completed a Digital Ready Scorecard which is necessary to complete before applying for a Digitalisation Voucher
Potential for learning or transfer
This Good Practice has the potential to be transferred into other regions. It requires the support and resources of an economic development agency such as Government Dept, or Chamber of Commerce to offer the voucher. The Pays de la Loire Digital Advice and Pays de la Loire Digital Investment programme in Laval, France offers a similar support. The DENDATICS grants programme offered to SMEs by Fomento San Sebastian offers a similar support and would be an opportunity to exchange learning outcomes.
