The first quarter of 2026 offers a clear view of how Irish entrepreneurs are responding to a challenging economic environment. Despite ongoing pressures linked to inflation, interest rates and global uncertainty, new company formation remains strong. Our latest data shows a significant increase in start-up activity, driven by a diverse mix of sectors and regions across the country.
A total of 7,263 new companies were registered in Q1, representing a 14% increase on the same period last year. This level of activity highlights a business landscape that remains innovative, opportunity-focused and resilient in the face of external headwinds.
Growth was particularly evident in construction, which expanded by more than 30%, supported by sustained infrastructure and development demand. Manufacturing recorded a rise of over 46%, reflecting renewed strength in production and export-driven industries. Technology related businesses continued to gain momentum, with computing showing the strongest uplift of all at 63%. Financial services and community-based services also grew, pointing to a broad and balanced pattern of sectoral expansion.
Regional performance further reinforces the national picture. Dublin recorded 2,096 start ups, almost 18% higher than last year. Cork, Limerick and Galway delivered strong results, while commuter counties such as Kildare, Wicklow and Meath posted sizeable increases. These outcomes suggest that new business creation is now embedded across both urban and regional centres, supported by strong local ecosystems and shifting workplace patterns.
A number of early trends framed the quarter:
January remained the busiest month, consistent with previous years
Growth occurred across a wide mix of service, industrial and technology based sectors
Regional and commuter-belt counties played an increasingly significant role
