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Ireland experienced its most active year for new business formation in over a decade, with more than 26,500 companies registered in 2025. According to fresh analysis from CRIFVision-Net, this represents the highest annual total in 15 years and an 11% increase on the previous year.

The data points to strong momentum across several key sectors. Agriculture recorded the fastest growth, with new company formations rising by 38%. The technology sector followed with an increase of 29%, and construction saw an 18% rise, reflecting continued demand for housing and infrastructure projects nationwide. Wholesale and retail activity also expanded, with a 9% increase in new firms, alongside a 5% rise in hospitality start-ups.

Dublin remained the dominant location for new businesses, accounting for more than 40% of all start-ups, or approximately 11,450 companies. Regional activity also strengthened, with Cork adding 2,552 new firms. Galway, Kildare and Meath each exceeded 1,000 new company registrations, highlighting broad-based entrepreneurial activity across the country.

Commenting on the findings, CRIFVision-Net managing director Christine Cullen said the figures demonstrate strong entrepreneurial ambition and resilience throughout Ireland. She noted that sustained economic growth depends on continued support for both new enterprises and existing businesses, particularly as operating costs and credit conditions remain challenging.

Alongside the rise in start-ups, the report also highlights increasing financial pressure on established companies. Commercial judgments against businesses rose sharply during the year, with 1,808 cases recorded, amounting to €47.2 million. This represents a 29% increase in the number of cases and a 67% rise in their total value compared with 2024.

According to CRIFVision-Net, the data suggests that a growing number of businesses are struggling to meet payment obligations, leading creditors to pursue legal action. Ms Cullen warned that without targeted supports, rising costs, tighter lending conditions and volatility in export markets could undermine longer-term sustainability, despite strong levels of start-up formation.

The report concludes that focused measures to support financial resilience will play a key role in maintaining Ireland’s entrepreneurial momentum into 2026.

Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available information and is intended for general guidance only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy at the time of publication, details may change and errors may occur. This content does not constitute financial, legal or professional advice. Readers should seek appropriate professional guidance before making decisions. Neither the publisher nor the authors accept liability for any loss arising from reliance on this material.