Support from an experienced adviser to help businesses understand if employee ownership is the right strategy for their business.
Who it is for
Company owners considering business succession within the next 18 to 24 months are encouraged to apply.
Applications are reviewed for suitability, ensuring a range of business sizes, sectors, and geographical locations across Northern Ireland.
Businesses must
- be a limited company based in Northern Ireland
- have three years of trading accounts showing sustainable profitability
- have a leadership succession plan in place or under development
- must have a team of employees committed to the company’s continuity
Support you can get
Employee Ownership Ireland, with support from the Department for the Economy, is offering funded support with an experienced adviser to help company owners decide if employee ownership and an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT) is the right exit strategy for their business.
One day of support
A combination of desktop research and a session with the adviser.
Businesses will review exit plans, explore how employee ownership could work in their company, and how an EOT might facilitate their exit.
Two days of support
Production of an employee ownership feasibility study, if identified as a viable solution.
Businesses will assess potential ownership structures, governance options, future management requirements, funding for an EOT exit, transition processes, and how the updated 50% capital gains tax (CGT) relief applies to qualifying disposals completed after November 2025.
The feasibility study will determine alignment with goals before proceeding further. There will be a follow-up session to address questions and decide on next steps.
Cost and delivery
There is no obligation to use the chosen adviser or pay anything to Employee Ownership Ireland if a business chooses the EOT model.
The feasibility study is for each business to share as they wish, providing a roadmap and guidebook for making an informed decision.
Support organisers
- Employee Ownership Ireland
- Department for the Economy (DfE)
Next Steps
on the Employee Ownership Ireland website
Published
23 April 2026
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