Irish small and medium-sized enterprises are invited to have their say on the realities of doing business in Ireland through the SBCI SME Outlook Survey 2026, now open until 25 May. Launched by the Strategic Banking Corporation of Ireland (SBCI), the annual survey captures the lived experience of business owners operating in an increasingly challenging economic environment. From managing rising costs and accessing finance to investment plans and sustainability ambitions, the survey focuses on the issues that matter most to businesses on the ground.

Insights are collected on an anonymous basis and shared with relevant Government Departments to help shape future Government-backed financial supports for SMEs and agri-businesses.

Why business voices matter

Irish SMEs are facing a complex mix of pressures, including rising operating costs, skills shortages, regulatory demands and the need to invest in productivity and sustainability. While each business experience is unique, common themes emerge when business owners are given a structured opportunity to share their perspectives.

The SBCI SME Outlook Survey provides a practical way for businesses to bring their experience to the table and influence the supports designed to help them succeed.

By taking part, businesses can:

· Highlight the most significant challenges affecting day-to-day operations

· Share views on access to finance and funding conditions

· Identify where existing supports are working well, or where gaps remain

· Help shape the design of future Government-backed lending schemes and initiatives

Findings from previous editions of the survey have informed discussions between policymakers, financial institutions and enterprise support bodies, helping ensure decisions are grounded in real-world SME sentiment.

Turning experience into action

The 2026 survey covers key areas including:

· The current trading and economic environment

· Cost pressures and cashflow management

· Growth expectations and investment intentions

· Sustainability and the green transition

· Financing needs and access to funding

Once the survey closes, the results will be published later in 2026 and shared with key stakeholders across government and the wider enterprise ecosystem. The findings will help inform future policy discussions and the evolution of financial products aimed at supporting SME resilience and growth.

Designed with business owners in mind

Recognising the time pressures faced by SMEs, the survey is designed to be straightforward and quick to complete, while still capturing meaningful insights.

As a thank you, respondents can enter a draw for a €200 voucher, which will be awarded to one participating business.

Have your say on the future of SME supports

At a time of ongoing change and uncertainty, the opportunity to directly influence how supports are shaped is more valuable than ever. The SBCI SME Outlook Survey gives Irish businesses a clear channel to ensure their voice is heard and reflected in future policy and financial supports.

The survey is now open and will close on 25 May 2026. Take part, click here.