WDC Funding for AI: Complete Grants & Loans Guide for Western Ireland
Founder & CEO, Deep Purple AI Consulting
WDC funding provides loans (€50K–€300K) and equity investment (€250K–€1M) to businesses in Western Ireland — specifically Clare, Donegal, Galway, Leitrim, Mayo, Roscommon, and Sligo. Unlike government grants, WDC investment must be repaid or involves shareholding, but it's more flexible, can fund projects that grants won't cover, and can even be used to cover the 50% matching requirement of an Enterprise Ireland grant.
Our primary grant expertise is through LEO and Enterprise Ireland, and we work with businesses across Ireland who combine WDC funding with government grants to fund larger AI transformation projects. We can help you build the business case, develop the AI implementation plan, and deliver the project once funding is secured.
Quick Summary
Verified for 2026The Western Development Commission (WDC) provides investment funding (loans €50K–€300K, equity €250K–€1M) for SMEs headquartered in the Western Region — not traditional grants. Unlike grants, WDC funding must be repaid or involves shareholding, but it's more flexible and can fund projects grants won't cover. Track record: €100M invested, 300+ enterprises supported, 66,000+ jobs created.
Funding at a Glance
| Funding Type | Amount | Repayment | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Investment Loan | €50K – €300K | Repaid with interest | Established SMEs |
| Equity Investment | €250K – €1M | WDC takes shareholding | High-growth companies |
| Creative Industries Fund | Varies | Varies by structure | Film, media, digital content |
What makes WDC different:
Contact WDC:
Not in the Western Region? WDC funding is only available to businesses in Clare, Donegal, Galway, Leitrim, Mayo, Roscommon, and Sligo. To compare all grant agencies across Ireland, see our Complete Guide to AI Grants in Ireland 2026.
Grant Guide Series
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WDC Funding 2026: Loans & Equity
You are hereLooking for help applying? We guide businesses through the full grant process — from identifying the right funding to delivering the project. .
The Western Development Commission (WDC) is a statutory agency established by the Irish Government in 1997 to promote economic and social development in the West of Ireland.
They serve seven counties: Clare, Donegal, Galway, Leitrim, Mayo, Roscommon, and Sligo. Unlike national agencies, their sole focus is ensuring this region doesn't get left behind in economic growth.
Crucially, WDC provides investment funding (loans and equity) rather than grants – filling the gap when businesses need more than grant funding can offer, or when they've exhausted grant options.
Investment vs Grants: Understanding the Difference
Before we dive into WDC funding, it's crucial to understand that this is not grant funding. Here's how WDC investment differs from the grants we've covered in previous articles:
| Aspect | Traditional Grants (LEO, EI, etc.) | WDC Investment |
|---|---|---|
| Repayment | No repayment required | Loans must be repaid; equity involves shareholding |
| Cost to you | Typically 20-50% co-funding | Full amount plus interest (loans) or dilution (equity) |
| Approval criteria | Project-based assessment | Commercial viability and growth potential |
| Flexibility | Must follow grant guidelines | More flexible use of funds |
| Timeline | Often tied to project milestones | Agreed repayment schedule or exit timeline |
| Relationship | Transactional | Ongoing partnership |
Why Consider Investment Over Grants?
WDC investment makes sense when:
- Grants don't cover what you need – Some AI projects don't fit neatly into grant categories
- You need larger amounts – Equity investment can reach €1M for the right opportunity
- Speed matters – Investment decisions can sometimes be faster than grant applications
- You've maxed out grant options – WDC funding can bridge the gap
- You want a strategic partner – WDC brings connections and expertise, not just money
The Real Cost Comparison
Let's say you need €100,000 for an AI implementation project:
Option A: Enterprise Ireland Grant (50% funding)
€50,000
€50,000 upfront
€50,000
Option B: WDC Loan
€100,000
~€15,000-€25,000
€115,000-€125,000
Option C: Combine Both
€50,000
€50,000
€0
€50K loan repayment + interest
Best of both worlds: For many businesses, combining grants with WDC investment provides the optimal funding structure.
WDC Funding Eligibility: Who Qualifies in the West of Ireland?
Geographic Eligibility
WDC funding is exclusively for businesses in the West of Ireland Region, which includes seven counties:
Location Requirements
Important Location Requirements
This is where WDC differs from other funding bodies. Your business must be:
- Registered in the West of Ireland Region – Your company registration address must be in one of the seven counties
- Headquartered in the West of Ireland Region – Your principal place of business must be in the region
- Controlled from the West of Ireland Region – More than 50% of your management team must reside in the region
Having a satellite office or some operations in the West isn't enough. WDC funding is specifically designed to support businesses that are genuinely based in and contributing to the West of Ireland Region's economy.
Business Stage Requirements
| Fund Type | Business Stage | Typical Criteria |
|---|---|---|
| Business Investment Fund (Loans) | Established SMEs | Trading history, viable business model |
| Business Investment Fund (Equity) | Growth-stage | Scalable model, clear growth trajectory |
| Community Lending | Social enterprises | Community benefit, sustainability plan |
| Creative Industries | Creative sector | Project viability, cultural/creative merit |
The WDC defines creative industries broadly. Eligible businesses include:
- Film, television, and animation production
- Games development and interactive media
- Music, performing arts, and live entertainment
- Design (graphic, product, fashion, interior)
- Architecture and built environment
- Publishing and digital content
- Advertising and marketing services
- Crafts with commercial application
If your business creates intellectual property or relies on creative talent, you may qualify under this category.
Eligible Sectors
WDC supports businesses across most sectors, with particular interest in:
What Can You Build With WDC Investment?
Unlike grants, WDC provides loans and equity — meaning you can use the funding more flexibly. Here's what Western Ireland businesses typically invest in:
- →With €50K–€100K: A targeted AI project — automated scheduling, customer analytics dashboards, predictive demand planning, or a pilot automation system for your core workflows.
- →With €100K–€500K: A full digital transformation programme — custom AI software, ERP integrations, multiple automation systems, plus team training and change management.
- →With €500K+: Scaling an AI-powered product or service, building out a data analytics capability, or comprehensive operational transformation across your business.
At Deep Purple, we help Western Ireland businesses build investment-ready AI plans and deliver the technology projects that follow.
Types of WDC Investment: Loans and Equity for SMEs
WDC operates three distinct investment funds, each serving different business needs:
| Fund | Investment Type | Amount Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Investment Fund | Loans & Equity | €50K-€1M | SMEs across sectors |
| Community & Social Enterprise | Loans | €50K-€250K (up to €1M strategic) | Social enterprises, community projects |
| Creative Industries | Micro-loans & WRAP Fund | Up to €200K | Film, TV, animation, games |
Business Investment Fund: €50K-€1M for SMEs
The Business Investment Fund is WDC's primary fund for commercial SMEs, offering both loan and equity options. For businesses looking for SME loans in Ireland that offer more flexibility than traditional banks, the WDC provides a vital alternative for the Western Region.
Loan Finance
€50,000 to €300,000
Typical Terms:
- Interest rate: EU Reference Rate plus margin
- Term: Typically 3-7 years
- Security: May require personal guarantees
- Repayment: Monthly or quarterly
Best for:
- Working capital for AI projects
- Equipment and technology purchases
- Scaling existing operations
- Bridge financing while awaiting grants
Equity Investment
€250,000 to €1,000,000
Typical Terms:
- WDC takes a minority shareholding
- Investment horizon: 5-7 years
- Exit: Trade sale, buyback, or secondary
- May include board observer seat
Best for:
- Significant growth/scaling opportunities
- Companies with clear exit potential
- Patient capital for AI transformation
- Where debt isn't appropriate
What WDC Looks For
When assessing Business Investment Fund applications, WDC evaluates:
Commercial viability
Is this a sustainable business?
Growth potential
Can this business scale?
Management team
Do they have the capability to deliver?
Job creation
Will this create employment in the region?
Regional impact
How does this benefit the Western Region?
Exit potential (equity)
Is there a realistic path to return?
Community & Social Enterprise Lending
The Community & Social Enterprise Lending fund supports organisations delivering social benefit in the Western Region.
Community & Social Enterprise
€50,000 to €250,000 (up to €1M for strategic projects)
Eligible Organisations:
- Social enterprises
- Community organisations
- Not-for-profit companies
- Co-operatives
AI Applications:
While primarily focused on community benefit, this fund could support AI projects that:
- Improve service delivery to communities
- Create employment in disadvantaged areas
- Enhance sustainability of community organisations
- Enable digital inclusion initiatives
Creative Industries Investment
The Creative Industries Investment fund supports the audiovisual and creative sectors in the Western Region.
Micro-Loans for Creative Businesses
Small loans for creative enterprises
Flexible micro-financing for creative sector SMEs in the Western Region
Eligible Activities:
- Production companies
- Animation studios
- Games development
- Digital content creation
WRAP Fund
Up to €200,000
Western Region Audiovisual Producers Fund – Investment in film, TV, and animation productions shooting in the Western Region
AI Applications:
- AI-assisted animation and VFX
- Automated post-production workflows
- AI-driven content localisation
- Procedural content generation for games
AI Success Story: Buymedia
One of the best examples of WDC's support for AI and technology companies is Buymedia, a Galway-based AdTech company.
Buymedia: From €110K to €7M+ Revenue
Galway-based AdTech success story
2019: The Start
9-person team with an AI-powered advertising platform. WDC invested €110,000 in seed funding.
The Technology
Buymedia's platform uses AI and machine learning to optimise digital advertising spend.
2023 Results:
- Revenue exceeded €7 million (63% year-on-year growth)
- Ranked 5th in the Deloitte Technology Fast 50
- Announced plans to create 100+ new jobs
- Expanded from 9 to significant headcount
What This Demonstrates
The Buymedia story shows exactly what WDC investment can achieve for AI companies:
Early-stage support
WDC invested when the company was still small
Patient capital
They supported growth over multiple years
Regional success
The jobs and economic activity stayed in Galway
Scaling trajectory
From €110K investment to €7M+ revenue company
How WDC Funding Combines with Grants
One of the most powerful strategies for funding your AI projects is combining WDC investment with traditional grant funding. Here's how different pathways can work:
WDC investment fills a gap that grants don't cover: working capital during AI implementation. Grants reimburse costs after the fact — you pay the consultant, then claim back 50–80% from the agency. But WDC loans fund projects upfront. Even smarter: you can use a WDC loan to cover the 50% matching requirement of an Enterprise Ireland grant, meaning zero upfront cash from your operating budget.
Discovery → Grant → WDC Scale-Up
The traditional scaling pathway
Total potential funding: €650,000+ (€150K grant + €500K investment)
Grant Co-Funding
Use WDC loans to cover your matching requirement
EI Grant covers 50%
€100K
WDC Loan covers your 50%
€100K
Result: €0 upfront cash required from you
InterTradeIreland → WDC
Fully-funded expertise first, then investment
Why this works: InterTradeIreland's fully-funded expertise helps you develop a solid plan, which strengthens your WDC application.
Gaeltacht Double Advantage
Eligible for both Údarás and WDC in Galway, Mayo, Donegal
Údarás Digital Transition
up to €75K
WDC Business Investment
€100K–€500K
- Grants first – Always maximise grant funding before taking on investment
- Use investment for gaps – WDC can fund what grants don't cover
- Strengthen applications – Completed grant projects demonstrate capability for WDC
- Plan the sequence – Some grants require you NOT to have started work; coordinate timing carefully
Application Process: From First Contact to Funding
Your complete application roadmap for WDC funding:
Phase 1: Initial Contact
Contact WDC
Contact WDC via their website, phone +353 71 916 1700, or email info@wdc.ie
Prepare Your Overview
- Brief business description
- Funding amount sought
- Your connection to the Western Region
Schedule Initial Meeting
WDC will arrange an in-person or virtual meeting
Phase 2: Initial Meeting & Discussion
Present Your Business Model
Explain your operations and growth plans
Discuss the AI Project
Outline the specific opportunity and how investment would be used
Introduce Your Team
WDC assesses management capability
Confirm Fit
WDC advises on suitable funding options
Phase 3: Application Submission
Prepare Business Plan
Include your AI transformation vision and ROI projections
Gather Financial Documents
- 3 years of financial statements
- Financial projections
- Use of funds breakdown
Management Team Details
CVs and experience of key personnel
Submit Complete Application
Ensure all documentation is in order
Phase 4: Due Diligence
Financial Analysis
WDC reviews your accounts and projections
Market Assessment
Evaluation of your competitive position
Site Visit
WDC may visit your premises
Reference Checks
Verification of key claims and relationships
Phase 5: Approval & Closing
Investment Committee Review
Your application is assessed by WDC's committee
Term Sheet Issued
Outlines investment terms if approved
Legal Documentation
Contracts prepared and reviewed
Funds Released
Investment transferred upon completion
Typical Timeline
| Stage | Duration |
|---|---|
| Initial contact to meeting | 1-2 weeks |
| Application preparation | 2-4 weeks (depends on you) |
| Due diligence | 4-8 weeks |
| Committee decision | 2-4 weeks |
| Legal and closing | 2-4 weeks |
| Total | 3-5 months |
Common Rejection Reasons for WDC Funding
- Not genuinely based in the Western Region: Having a registered address isn't enough — WDC requires your headquarters and over 50% of management to be in the seven western counties
- Insufficient financial track record: WDC investment is repayable — they need to see that your business can sustain loan repayments or justify equity investment through growth
- No clear AI business case: "We want to do something with AI" won't fly — WDC needs a concrete plan showing how AI investment drives measurable business growth
- Expecting grant-style free money: WDC provides investment (loans and equity), not grants — your application must demonstrate return potential, not just project costs
- Weak market or growth projections: WDC is an investment body — they evaluate your growth potential as seriously as any commercial investor would
Success Factors for WDC Applications
What Makes Applications Succeed
Based on WDC's track record and the Buymedia example, successful applications typically demonstrate:
Clear Commercial Logic
- • How will AI improve your business performance?
- • What's the expected ROI?
- • How does this create competitive advantage?
Strong Management Team
- • Relevant experience in your sector
- • Track record of execution
- • Commitment to the Western Region
Realistic Financials
- • Conservative but credible projections
- • Clear understanding of costs
- • Sensible assumptions
Regional Commitment
- • Jobs will be created in the Western Region
- • Management genuinely based in the area
- • Long-term commitment to the region
Appropriate Ask
- • Right amount for the opportunity
- • Right type of funding (loan vs equity)
- • Clear use of funds
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overstating projections – Be realistic; WDC has seen hundreds of business plans
- Underestimating costs – AI projects often cost more than expected
- Ignoring the regional requirement – WDC exists for the Western Region; make this central
- Seeking investment too early – Have some traction before approaching for equity
- Wrong funding type – Don't seek equity if a loan makes more sense (and vice versa)
AI Funding in Galway, Sligo, and Donegal
While WDC's eligibility rules are the same across all seven Western counties, businesses in different areas often have different needs and opportunities.
Galway: Technology Hub
Galway has emerged as the Western Region's technology centre, home to companies like Buymedia.
Key Advantages:
- Strong talent pool from NUIG and ATU
- Active startup ecosystem
- WDC's track record with tech companies
- Multinational cluster connections
Sligo: Growing Digital Sector
ATU Sligo has helped develop a growing technology talent base.
Key Advantages:
- Lower operating costs than Galway/Dublin
- Strong community networks
- Growing remote work opportunities
Donegal: Remote Working Pioneer
Donegal has embraced remote working, making it attractive for AI and technology businesses.
Key Advantages:
- Infrastructure for remote tech teams
- AI solutions for distributed workforces
- Same funding as urban areas, lower costs
Businesses with operations across multiple Western counties may find additional opportunities through WDC's regional development focus. Projects that benefit multiple counties can demonstrate broader regional impact – a factor WDC considers in funding decisions.
Your Next Steps: From Reading to Funding
You now have the complete roadmap to accessing WDC funding for your AI project. Here's your action plan:
If You're Based in the Western Region:
Today
Check your eligibility – registered, headquartered, and >50% management in the region
This Week
Assess your funding needs – how much? Loan or equity? Have you maxed out grants?
Next 2 Weeks
Prepare your story – what you do, what you want to achieve with AI, why it's a good investment
Within 30 Days
Make contact – Phone: +353 71 916 1700 or Email: info@wdc.ie
How Deep Purple Can Help:
As AI implementation specialists, we work with businesses across all funding agencies. For Western Region companies, we can help you:
Assess AI opportunities – identify where AI can deliver real business value
Develop your business case – create the commercial logic WDC wants to see
Coordinate with grants – maximise grant funding alongside WDC investment
Implement AI solutions – deliver the projects that justify the investment
Ready to Explore AI Funding for Your West of Ireland Business?
Deep Purple works with businesses across Ireland. As an approved provider for LEO and Enterprise Ireland programmes, we have hands-on experience with the grant landscape that complements WDC investment.
Book a short call to discuss your AI project and funding options.
Prefer to email? hello@deeppurple.ai
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is WDC funding a grant or a loan?
A: WDC provides investment funding, not grants. This means loans (which must be repaid with interest) and equity investment (where WDC takes a shareholding in your company). Unlike grants, this isn't free money – but it can fund projects that grants don't cover and often comes with strategic support.
Q: What's the difference between WDC loans and equity investment?
A: Loans (€50K-€300K): You borrow money and repay it over time with interest. You retain full ownership. Best for established businesses with predictable cash flow. Equity (€250K-€1M): WDC invests money in exchange for shares. No regular repayments, but WDC becomes a shareholder and will eventually want an exit. Best for high-growth companies.
Q: Can I combine WDC funding with LEO or Enterprise Ireland grants?
A: Yes, and this is often the smartest approach. Grants can cover part of your project costs, while WDC investment covers the rest. For example, an Enterprise Ireland grant might fund 50% of your AI project, with a WDC loan funding your 50% contribution – meaning zero upfront cash from you.
Q: What counties are eligible for WDC funding?
A: The seven counties of the Western Region: Clare, Donegal, Galway, Leitrim, Mayo, Roscommon, and Sligo. Your business must be registered, headquartered, and controlled from within this region.
Q: Do I need to be headquartered in the West, or just have operations there?
A: You need to be headquartered in the Western Region, with more than 50% of your management team residing there. Having a branch office or some operations in the West isn't sufficient – WDC funding is specifically for businesses genuinely based in and committed to the region.
Q: How long does the WDC application process take?
A: Typically 3-5 months from initial contact to funds being released. This includes initial meetings (1-2 weeks), application preparation (2-4 weeks), due diligence (4-8 weeks), committee decision (2-4 weeks), and legal closing (2-4 weeks). Complex equity investments may take longer.
Q: What interest rates apply to WDC loans?
A: WDC loans are priced at the EU Reference Rate plus a margin that reflects the risk profile of your business and project. The exact rate is determined during the assessment process. While not the cheapest finance available, WDC often supports businesses that can't access traditional bank lending.
Q: Can startups apply, or is this for established businesses only?
A: Both can apply, but through different routes. Established SMEs typically access loans from the Business Investment Fund. Growth-stage companies with strong potential may qualify for equity investment. The Buymedia example shows WDC investing at seed stage (9 employees), so early-stage companies with strong AI propositions can be considered.
Q: Does WDC investment count as State Aid?
A: WDC is a state agency, so its investments may be considered State Aid under EU rules. Most WDC investments likely fall under the General Block Exemption Regulation (GBER) rather than De Minimis limits. WDC will advise on this during the application process.
Q: Can Deep Purple help me apply for WDC funding?
A: We don't submit WDC applications on your behalf (you work directly with WDC), but we can help you identify AI opportunities that justify investment, build the business case for your application, develop realistic projections, coordinate with grant applications, and implement the AI projects once funding is secured.
- LEO Grants Guide 2026: Free Consultancy to €150,000 for Irish SMEs
- Enterprise Ireland Grants 2026: Up to €400,000 for AI Projects
- IDA Ireland Grants 2026: Lean Digitalisation Funding
- Údarás na Gaeltachta Grants 2026: EU-Backed Funding for Gaeltacht Businesses
- InterTradeIreland Grants 2026: €130,000+ for Cross-Border AI Projects
About Brian Egan
Founder & CEO, Deep Purple AI Consulting
Brian Egan is the Founder and CEO of Deep Purple AI Consulting. With over 26 years in software and AI — from studying neural networks at Dublin City University, to building intelligent mobile systems for Vodafone, Nokia, and Hutchison 3G, to founding four technology companies that delivered machine learning, computer vision, and predictive AI solutions to real businesses — Brian has been building with AI technologies at every stage of their evolution.
His interest in artificial intelligence began at DCU, where he studied neural networks and pattern recognition as part of his BSc in Computer Applications. As a Marie Curie Research Fellow in Germany, he worked on EU Framework projects developing intelligent systems for integrating emerging mobile technologies with enterprise software. At Cibenix (2003–2011), he spent eight years designing on-device software for Vodafone, Nokia, Hutchison 3G, Sony Ericsson, and other global operators — work that increasingly involved content personalisation, user behaviour analysis, and adaptive delivery logic.
In 2012, Brian founded Purpledecks, a software consultancy that evolved with the AI landscape — incorporating machine learning, computer vision, data classification, predictive features, and recommendation engines into client projects years before the current generative AI wave. From Purpledecks came Hype4 (UX research including AI-powered biometric identification for government programmes), Mapall (fibre optic network intelligence with spatial analytics and route optimisation), and Reactable AI (one of Ireland's earliest production deployments of autonomous AI agents).
An Enterprise Ireland approved consultant, LEO Digital for Business provider, and former Marie Curie Research Fellow, Brian now works directly with established businesses across Ireland and the UK, helping them identify where AI delivers genuine commercial value and guiding them from first assessment through to working system.
Related Resources
LEO Grants Guide 2026: Free Consultancy to €150,000
Complete guide to Local Enterprise Office grants for small businesses with 1-50 employees.
Enterprise Ireland Grants 2026: Up to €400,000 for AI Projects
Comprehensive guide to Enterprise Ireland funding for scaling Irish companies.
Údarás na Gaeltachta Grants 2026
AI funding opportunities for businesses in Gaeltacht regions.
InterTradeIreland Grants 2026: €130,000+ for Cross-Border AI
Fully funded AI expertise through cross-border innovation programmes.