Two UCD-linked sustainable agriculture projects have secured just over €1.2 million in Enterprise Ireland commercialisation funding, in a strong boost for Irish startups driving innovation and the wider business news Ireland audience. The funding backs BiCO and Mehal, two ventures emerging from the FAST-IP agrifood innovation programme, and points to a practical route from university research to new companies, skilled jobs and long-term business growth.
Announced at AgTechUCD Innovation Centre at UCD Lyons Farm, the awards will support both teams over the next two years as they work toward commercially viable startup launches. For founders, SME Ireland readers and professionals tracking innovation Ireland, the message is clear: sustainable agriculture is producing serious commercial opportunities.
What the funding will support in business news Ireland
BiCO received €600,000 to develop a system that helps microalgae absorb carbon more efficiently through a stable bicarbonate solution. The aim is to reduce waste, improve yields and support lower-cost protein production for food, feed and other bio-based uses.
Mehal secured €635,000 for a pest-intelligence platform that uses eDNA-based detection to identify harmful species earlier in soft-fruit and horticulture systems. Earlier alerts could help growers cut crop losses and make more targeted decisions.
- BiCO focuses on carbon use and sustainable protein production
- Mehal targets pest detection in high-value horticulture
- Both projects came through the 12-month FAST-IP programme
- The next FAST-IP application round is now open for September 2026
Why it matters for Irish startups and SMEs
This is a useful example of how startup funding can move ideas beyond the lab. Enterprise Ireland, UCD and Teagasc are backing research with commercial promise, while FAST-IP gives mid-career participants a structured pathway, including a €38,000 tax-free scholarship, to test and build ideas.
For readers looking for entrepreneur tips or small business advice, the lesson is simple: strong partnerships, sector knowledge and applied research still matter. It also reflects a broader trend in business news Ireland, where Irish companies are increasingly building around climate, food security and practical science.
Anyone interested in business success stories, career development or the next wave of agritech should keep an eye on FAST-IP. For founders and operators planning their next move, this latest business news Ireland update shows that sustainable innovation can become real commercial traction.
