Expand Your Business Across the Border with the InterTradeIreland Acumen Programme
- Nov 28, 2025
- 3 min read
Expanding your business across the border between Ireland and Northern Ireland is one of the most effective ways to unlock new revenue streams and accelerate growth. Yet, many SMEs struggle to find the time, expertise, or sales resources needed to confidently enter a new market.
The InterTradeIreland Acumen Programme was created to remove those barriers. By offering substantial funding and expert support, the programme helps businesses develop new customers, win more sales, and establish a strong presence in the cross-border market.
In this blog, we break down how the Acumen Programme works, why cross-border expansion is such a valuable opportunity, and how SalesPlus can guide you through every stage of the process.
Why Cross-Border Expansion Is a High-Impact Growth Strategy
The cross-border market is one of the most accessible expansion opportunities available to Irish SMEs. With shared language, close proximity, and aligned business cultures, it provides a low-risk environment to test new products and develop new customer relationships.
Key benefits include:
Access to a wider customer base
Increased brand visibility
Faster route to export markets
Easier logistics compared to overseas exporting
However, entering a new jurisdiction still requires targeted sales expertise — something many SMEs don’t have in-house. This is exactly the challenge the Acumen Programme is designed to solve.
What the InterTradeIreland Acumen Programme Offers
The Acumen Programme helps SMEs accelerate cross-border sales by funding essential sales resources and expertise. Eligible businesses can benefit from:
✔ Up to £17,250 / €21,562 in funding
This funding supports the cost of hiring a dedicated and experienced sales resource to focus on new business development in the opposite jurisdiction.
✔ Additional financial support
Further assistance is available to help build and strengthen your sales team as your cross-border pipeline grows.
✔ Professional market development support
Expert guidance helps you identify sales opportunities, target new customers, and create an effective cross-border sales strategy.
By reducing risk and lowering the cost of entry, Acumen makes cross-border expansion more achievable, particularly for growing SMEs.
How SalesPlus Helps You Maximise Acumen Funding
SalesPlus is an approved and experienced delivery partner for the Acumen Programme. We’ve supported numerous SMEs across Ireland and Northern Ireland in securing funding and delivering successful market expansion projects.
Here’s how we support you:
1. Eligibility Assessment
We review your business structure, goals, and market readiness to confirm whether you qualify for Acumen support.
2. Guided Application Process
Our team helps prepare and submit a strong application, ensuring all requirements are met and increasing your chances of approval.
3. Sales Resource & Project Delivery
Whether you engage your own sales hire or partner with our outsourced sales team, we provide hands-on support throughout the entire project to ensure measurable results.
4. Cross-Border Sales Strategy
We work with you to build a tailored sales plan that targets the right customers and drives consistent new business.
At SalesPlus, our goal is not just to help you access funding — but to help you generate real, sustainable cross-border sales growth.
Is Your Business Eligible for Acumen Funding?
Your business may qualify if:
You employ fewer than 250 people
You have an annual turnover below €50 million / £40 million
You are trading in manufacturing or tradable services
You want to grow your business in the opposite jurisdiction
If you’re unsure, SalesPlus can assess your eligibility within minutes.
Start Your Cross-Border Growth Journey Today
Cross-border expansion is a powerful opportunity, and with the InterTradeIreland Acumen Programme, it has never been easier or more cost-effective to take the next step.
Whether you're based in the Republic of Ireland looking to enter Northern Ireland — or vice versa — SalesPlus is here to support you every step of the way.
Let’s unlock your cross-border potential and turn new opportunities into real sales growth.
