Why Invest in Irish Startups
At Elkstone, we believe that the future of wealth expansion lies in innovation. As Ireland’s leading private equity specialist, we offer our investors exclusive access to a range of high-growth opportunities in non-traditional markets such as real estate, private equity, hedge funds, and venture capital. If you’re looking for diversification, higher returns, and an opportunity to support the next generation of global companies, venture investing with Elkstone is the perfect place to start.
Ireland's Venture Ecosystem
Elkstone is not just an investor – we are a driving force behind Ireland’s venture ecosystem. Our venture capital business is supported by key institutions like the Irish Strategic Investment Fund (ISIF) and Enterprise Ireland, which makes us a leading player in Ireland’s startup ecosystem. As the country's largest early-stage venture fund, we have committed over €100 million to startups in technology led businesses across like sectors including Medtech and Healthtech, Fintech, SaaS in its many forms and increasingly in AI driven verticals, backing more than 60 Irish startups to date.
Among our portfolio are high-growth companies such as LetsGetChecked, Flipdish, Protex AI, Manna Drones, Zerve AI, Luminate Medical, and Mesh Email Security. Our role goes beyond funding: we help Irish startups build global companies with deep Irish roots.
The Power of Irish Startups: Why Now is the Time to Invest
There’s never been a better time to invest in venture. Globally, the trend toward private market investing is gaining momentum, and Ireland’s innovation-driven economy is positioned for massive growth. Through venture capital, investors can achieve long-term diversification and returns that outperform traditional markets.
Venture capital is one of the most exciting asset classes because it offers both high-risk and high-reward opportunities. At Elkstone, we make venture investing more accessible by providing investors with entry to top-tier global funds as well as off-market private deals sourced directly through our network. By connecting directly with the best talent, accelerators, and other investors, we ensure that we have unparalleled access to the best deals on the market.
Building a Stronger Founder Network
This September, we held our inaugural Founder Retreat at the serene BrookLodge in the heart of Wicklow, where over 40 entrepreneurs came together to relax, reflect, and learn from one another. It wasn’t just about business—it was an opportunity to focus on well-being, resilience, and fostering long-lasting relationships.
A highlight of the retreat was the Fireside Chat with Peter Foley, Founder and CEO of LetsGetChecked, one of Ireland’s most successful unicorns. Peter shared his inspiring journey of transforming a small Dublin-based startup into a global healthtech leader. His story of vision, resilience, and strategic execution highlighted the immense value venture capital can bring to a company's growth. When asked why he chose Elkstone as an early investor, Peter explained: “Elkstone believed in us from day one. Their team didn’t just write a check; they became a part of our journey, helping us scale internationally and connect with the global investors we needed to succeed.” – confirm quote to use
Peter’s insights serve as a powerful reminder that venture capital isn’t just about funding—it’s about partnership, guidance, and a long-term commitment to a company’s success. Events like this are part of Elkstone’s ongoing dedication to nurturing founders, fostering a community of ambitious, like-minded individuals who can grow together and help each other succeed.
Key Themes of the Day
Founder Wellness and Resilience
A key theme throughout the day was mental health and work-life balance—essential pillars for any founder building a successful business. Our sessions provided practical strategies for maintaining resilience in the face of inevitable challenges, emphasising that looking after your well-being is just as important as managing your business. As we discussed, "Building a company without taking care of yourself is like running a marathon on empty." We believe that your health is your greatest asset, and nurturing it is crucial for building sustainable businesses that stand the test of time.
Navigating the Funding Journey to Scale
The retreat also explored key strategies for navigating the complex journey from early-stage funding to securing the growth capital needed to scale. The focus on next round readiness, tracking the right metrics, managing growth velocity, and the process and timing for engaging with next round investors were common themes.
Team Building for Success
Through a series of team-building exercises, founders fostered trust and collaboration, forging deeper connections with one another. These activities weren’t just about bonding—they were about creating an environment where entrepreneurs could learn from each other and build a network of support that extends well beyond the retreat itself.
At Elkstone, we understand that building a company is a long journey. Our Founder Retreat is just one way we support our entrepreneurs, helping them maintain balance, resilience, and the connections they need to succeed in both business and life
Elkstone’s Track Record: Proof in the Portfolio
The proof is in the performance. Elkstone’s venture capital team has built a strong portfolio of successful investments, including some standout Irish unicorns such as LetsGetChecked and Flipdish. These companies have gone on to achieve incredible success, with LetsGetChecked raising significant funds to expand into the US market and Flipdish becoming a dominant player in the global restaurant tech space.
Our portfolio is not only about past successes – we are equally excited about the emerging stars in our portfolio . Companies like Protex AI, Zerve AI, Mana Drone Delivery, Luminate Medical, CroíValve and Mesh are on the cusp of achieving major milestones and scaling to global heights.
Why Should You Invest in Elkstone?
If you are looking for an investment opportunity that not only offers strong returns but also allows you to have a tangible impact on the next generation of global businesses, then Elkstone is the ideal partner for you. Here’s why:
Access to Unparalleled Deal Flow: We see every major deal in the Irish market. With our strong network in the startup ecosystem, we have access to the most promising and high-growth ventures in Ireland.
Hands-On Support for Founders: We don’t just write checks – we support founders every step of the way. From strategic guidance to international networking, we’re dedicated to helping our portfolio companies scale.
Commitment to Sustainable Growth: We focus on building companies that can scale globally while creating lasting economic and social impact. Our work extends far beyond exits, ensuring long-term value for our investors.
A Proven Track Record: Our portfolio includes top-performing companies like LetsGetChecked, Flipdish, and Protex AI, which have already scaled across international markets attracting a deep pool of Tier 1 intranational investors.
Building Global Companies
At Elkstone, we’re not just focused on exits. Our mission is to nurture Irish entrepreneurs, helping them scale and prepare for international capital. We believe in building companies that will not only thrive in the Irish market but also become global players. Our commitment to supporting the scaling journey includes:
Strategic Guidance: Through our Venture Advisory Panel, a group of seasoned industry leaders and entrepreneurs, we provide crucial strategic and operational advice to our portfolio companies.
Global Networks: With our extensive connections to international VCs, we help Irish companies secure follow-up funding rounds, access global markets, and scale internationally.
Sustainability: We believe in creating long-term impact by focusing on businesses that have the potential for sustained growth, job creation, and innovation, which in turn fosters economic and social value.
Invest with Elkstone today
If you're passionate about supporting Irish startups and want to be part of their growth story, Elkstone invites you to become part of our community of investors, mentors, and partners. Together, we can help Irish founders scale, build global brands, and drive the next wave of innovation.
Contact Elkstone today to learn more about our venture investment opportunities and join a network of forward-thinking investors.
Elkstone Private Advisors Limited (trading as Elkstone, Elkstone Wealth, Elkstone Private and Elkstone Ventures) is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.
Warning: This is a marketing communication. This document is not a contractually binding document and has been prepared for information purposes only. It is not intended as and does not constitute a personal recommendation. Please do not base any final investment decision on this.