When it comes to stimulating economic growth and attracting investment, governments around the world have employed various incentives and schemes. These initiatives are designed to encourage individuals and businesses to invest their capital in specific sectors or regions. One such investment incentive that stands out is the Employment and Investment Incentive Scheme (EIIS). But what sets EIIS apart from other investment incentives? Let’s delve into the distinctive features that make EIIS an attractive choice for investors.

1. Focus on SMEs:

Unlike many other investment incentives that primarily target large corporations or specific industries, EIIS is specifically geared towards supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). These enterprises form the backbone of the Irish economy, driving innovation, creating jobs, and fostering entrepreneurship. By incentivising investment in SMEs, EIIS aims to provide crucial funding and support to this vital sector.

2. Tax Relief Benefits:

One of the key attractions of the EIIS scheme is the generous tax relief it offers to investors. Under EIIS, individuals can receive income tax relief on their investments up to a maximum of €250,000 per year. This tax relief is calculated at a rate of 40%. In addition to income tax relief, investors may also be eligible for capital gains tax relief on any gains made from the sale of their EIIS shares.

3. Alignment of Interests:

EIIS encourages a strong alignment of interests between investors and the companies they invest in. To qualify for the scheme, companies must meet strict eligibility criteria, including requirements related to employment creation, trading activities, and limitations on certain sectors. This ensures that the investments are directed towards companies with genuine growth potential, increasing the likelihood of a return on investment for the investor.

4. Contribution to Local Economy:

EIIS aims to stimulate investment in specific regions and sectors that can greatly benefit from economic development. By incentivising investors to support businesses in these targeted areas, EIIS helps to create employment opportunities, boost local economies, and foster regional development. This approach not only helps to distribute investment across the country but also encourages a more balanced and inclusive economic growth.

5. Professional Investment Management:

Investing in early-stage companies requires expertise and due diligence to identify promising opportunities. Recognizing this, EIIS allows investors to invest through a range of approved EIIS funds managed by experienced professionals. These funds are responsible for sourcing and managing a diversified portfolio of EIIS-eligible companies, reducing the administrative burden on individual investors while benefiting from professional investment management.

6. Diverse Investment Opportunities:

EIIS offers investors a wide range of investment opportunities across different industries and sectors. This diversity allows investors to choose investments that align with their interests, expertise, and risk appetite. Whether it’s technology, renewable energy, manufacturing, or services, EIIS provides a platform for investors to support businesses across a broad spectrum of sectors, promoting economic diversity and resilience.

7. Focus on Innovation and R&D:

EIIS places a strong emphasis on fostering entrepreneurship. The scheme encourages investment in companies engaged in cutting-edge technologies, scientific advancements, and innovative projects. By incentivizing investors to support these forward-thinking ventures, EIIS contributes to the growth of Ireland’s knowledge-based economy, promotes technological advancements, and enhances the country’s competitiveness on a global scale.

8. Positive Social Impact:

In addition to its economic benefits, EIIS also contributes to social impact and community development. The scheme encourages investments in socially responsible projects, such as renewable energy, affordable housing, and community initiatives. By channelling investment into these areas, EIIS promotes sustainable development, environmental stewardship, and the well-being of local communities.

9. Continuous Improvement:

EIIS is not a stagnant investment incentive; it has evolved over time to adapt to changing market conditions and investor needs. The Irish government has shown a commitment to continually refine and improve the scheme to maximise its effectiveness and attractiveness to investors. This ongoing enhancement demonstrates the government’s dedication to creating a favourable investment environment and ensuring that EIIS remains a competitive incentive in the global investment landscape.

In conclusion, the Employment and Investment Incentive Scheme (EIIS) stands out as a distinctive investment incentive. Its focus on SMEs, generous tax relief benefits, risk mitigation measures, alignment of interests, contribution to the local economy, and provision of professional investment management set it apart from other investment incentives. By combining these features, EIIS aims to foster entrepreneurship, support economic growth, and create a favourable environment for investors looking to make a positive impact on the Irish economy.

Further Information

For further information, you can also contact us at Medpoint for a copy of our 2023 Prospectus on 01 901 0395 or by e-mail at eiis@medpoint.ie.

www.medpoint.ie/eiis