Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs) supported a record number of jobs last year, according to new figures.
LEOs financially supported 39,541 jobs, which is up from 38,726 in 2023.
There was a net employment gain of 2,459 jobs, which was also up on the 2023 figure of 2,131.
A total of 7,104 new jobs were created by Local Enterprise Office supported businesses in 2024, which saw a 7% employment increase compared to 2023.
The jobs are in 7,176 Local Enterprise Office client companies across the country.
The figures show that 81% of all new jobs created by LEO supported companies were outside of the Dublin region.
The report for last year also highlights specific challenges and opportunities in the small business sector with many employers having issues around attracting and retaining staff.
"The 31 Local Enterprise Offices continue to be the primary anchor for economic development in communities across the country," said Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Peter Burke.
"Our LEOs ensure that every small business, regardless of location, has a support system available to them, no matter what their concern," Mr Burke added.
Chair of the Local Enterprise Offices John Magee said that year on year, Local Enterprise Offices are continuing to support the growth needs of small businesses across the country.
"We are delighted to report 11 years of continuous growth and our continued support for new businesses and the new jobs they create is a testament to the quality and resilience of the entrepreneurs we have across the country," Mr Magee said.
