By Bébhinn Egan, 10th April 2026
Ireland’s business landscape is off to a strong start in 2026. New company formation applications jumped by more than 20% in the first quarter, signalling renewed entrepreneurial confidence across a broad range of sectors.
Figures from the Companies Registration Office (CRO) show that interest is converting into action. Completed incorporations rose more than 15% year-on-year, with momentum accelerating as the quarter progressed.
Construction was among the standout performers, with sector incorporations up 67% on the same period last year. The surge points to heightened activity across building, engineering and project-led work, and is beginning to pull demand upstream into the professional services firms that typically support large-scale development.
Technology growth was even more striking. Software and computer programming enterprises increased by nearly 185%, reaffirming both the enduring appeal of tech-led business models and Ireland’s continued strength as a home for them.
Formation numbers, however, tell only part of the story. Close to 2,400 companies were added to the CRO’s strike-off list during the quarter as enforcement activity around filings, beneficial ownership and compliance obligations became more visible. For directors and company owners, the message is clear: statutory requirements demand the same attention as day-to-day operations.
The overall picture is an encouraging one for Irish entrepreneurship, but it comes with a caveat. The bar for staying in business is rising alongside the number of businesses being started. Getting incorporated is the easy part; remaining compliant is where the real discipline begins.
Disclaimer: This article is for guidance purposes only. It does not constitute legal or professional advice. No liability is accepted by Company Bureau for any action taken or not taken in reliance on the information set out in this article. Professional or legal advice should be obtained before taking or refraining from any action as a result of this article. Any and all information is subject to change.
