Bank of Ireland

Bank of Ireland (BoI) is a significant and active participant in the Irish venture capital ecosystem, primarily channeling its investments through a strategic partnership with Kernel Capital. This collaboration has led to the establishment of several dedicated funds, each tailored to support different stages of company growth and innovation across Ireland and Northern Ireland. Their investment strategy underscores a commitment to fostering indigenous businesses and technological advancements.

BoI's investment activities are notably structured through distinct funds. The Bank of Ireland Seed and Early Stage Equity Fund, launched in 2012, is a €10 million fund specifically designed for nascent companies, typically providing initial investments ranging from €100,000 to €1 million. This fund has been instrumental in supporting over 20 early-stage ventures, helping them to scale and develop. For more established, high-growth small and medium-sized enterprises, BoI supports the Bank of Ireland Kernel Capital Growth Fund II, a substantial €100 million fund that commenced operations in 2020. This fund typically deploys between €1 million and €5 million per company, targeting businesses with strong potential for significant expansion across the Republic of Ireland.

Furthermore, Bank of Ireland extends its reach to Northern Ireland through the Bank of Ireland Kernel Capital Growth Fund (NI), a £15 million fund dedicated to high-growth companies in that region. Cheque sizes from this fund generally range from £250,000 to £2 million. Through these diversified funds, Bank of Ireland demonstrates a robust commitment to supporting innovation, particularly in sectors such as deep tech, life sciences, and software. Their involvement provides not only crucial capital but also strategic guidance, leveraging Kernel Capital's deep industry expertise, thereby playing a pivotal role in the development of Ireland's dynamic entrepreneurial economy.