June 2026 marks a major milestone in SME lending for Linked Finance. Since launching in 2013, we've now lent more than €400 million to Irish SMEs, supporting over 5,000 businesses across the country and helping to sustain an estimated 50,000 jobs.
It's a brilliant milestone for SME lending and a milestone we're incredibly proud of—not just because of the number itself, but because of what it represents: thousands of ambitious Irish business owners investing in growth, creating jobs and building successful companies.
What's particularly encouraging is that this achievement comes during our strongest start to a year in our 13-year history. Lending volumes in 2026 are running approximately 65% ahead of a very challenging 2025, reflecting a renewed sense of confidence among Irish SMEs.
A Stronger Year for Irish SMEs
The past few years have presented plenty of challenges for businesses, from inflation and rising costs to geopolitical uncertainty and changing market conditions. Yet despite these headwinds, we're seeing growing optimism among SME owners.
Businesses are moving beyond planning and back into investment mode. Applications remain strong, and we're seeing demand from companies looking to expand, hire, invest in equipment and pursue new opportunities.
Backing Irish Businesses Since 2013
Over the past 13 years, we've had the privilege of supporting thousands of businesses across Ireland, including well-known brands such as VitHit, Murphy's Ice Cream, Cornucopia, Nomo Foods, Dublin Pedal Tours, SchoolBooks.ie, Cloud Picker Coffee and Leo Burdock.
The scale of those businesses' ambitions has evolved significantly over time. When we started in 2013, our average SME loan was approximately €18,000. Today, that figure has grown to around €125,000 in SME lending, reflecting both the increasing funding needs of Irish SMEs and growing confidence in alternative finance providers.
A More Diverse Business Community
Our SME lending book today looks very different from when we began. While construction and manufacturing were once dominant sectors among SMEs, we're now supporting businesses across a much broader range of industries in Ireland.
Alongside strong demand from retail, hospitality and professional services, we're seeing growing activity from sectors such as wellness, childcare, fitness and data centres. It's a reflection of how Ireland's SME economy continues to evolve.
We're also proud that nearly two-thirds of our borrowers are located outside Dublin, demonstrating the strength and diversity of businesses operating in every region of the country.
The Value of Long-Term Relationships
One of the most rewarding aspects of our growth has been the loyalty of our customers. Today, approximately half of all new lending comes from businesses that have borrowed from us before.
That repeat business tells us we're delivering what SMEs need: quick decisions, straightforward processes and reliable access to funding when opportunities arise. Most loans are now approved within 24 hours, helping business owners move forward with confidence.
Looking Ahead
While we're proud to have reached €400 million in lending, we're even more excited about what's next.
The momentum we're seeing in 2026 gives us confidence that Irish SMEs remain ambitious and resilient. Our focus remains unchanged: providing fast, flexible funding solutions that help businesses invest, grow and succeed.
To every business owner who has chosen Linked Finance over the past 13 years—thank you. We're proud to be part of your journey and look forward to supporting many more Irish businesses in the years ahead.
