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Trading Online Voucher Scheme FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions Answered

If you’re thinking about applying for the Trading Online Voucher (TOV) Scheme, you likely have a mountain of questions swirling in your mind. And that’s perfectly okay! This scheme is a fantastic opportunity for businesses in Ireland to enhance their online presence, so in this post, we’ll cover everything you need to know, from the basics to more complex queries about the TOV.

What is the Trading Online Voucher Scheme?

Let’s start with the basics! The Trading Online Voucher Scheme is an initiative launched by the Irish government to support small businesses in establishing or enhancing their online presence. By offering funding of up to €2,500, which covers 50% of eligible costs (excluding VAT), the scheme helps businesses invest in digital tools and platforms.

What Are Eligible Costs Under the TOV?

You can use the TOV funding for various activities, including:

  • Website Development: Creating a new website or improving an existing one.
  • E-commerce Solutions: Setting up or enhancing online shopping capabilities.
  • Digital Marketing Strategies: This includes SEO, social media marketing, and email marketing.
  • Online Training: Learning how to navigate digital tools and platforms effectively.


To dive deeper into eligible costs, be sure to check the Local Enterprise Office’s official page for the most up-to-date information.

Who Can Apply for the TOV?

Now, let’s get specific about who can benefit from this scheme. To be eligible for the TOV, your business must meet the following criteria:

  1. Based in Ireland: Your business needs to be registered and operating in the Republic of Ireland.
  2. Employee Count: You should have fewer than 10 employees.
  3. Annual Turnover: Your annual turnover must be €2 million or less.
  4. Trading Duration: You should have been trading for a minimum of six months.


If your business checks all these boxes, you’re well on your way to applying for the TOV!

What Can I Use the TOV Voucher For?

This is where the fun begins! The TOV can fund a variety of projects aimed at enhancing your business’s online capabilities. Here are some key areas where you can allocate your funding:

  • Website Development: Whether you’re building a brand-new site or giving your existing one a facelift, a well-designed website is crucial for attracting customers.
  • E-commerce Setup: If you’re looking to sell your products or services online, the TOV can help cover costs for setting up an e-commerce platform. This is especially important in today’s digital-first world!
  • Digital Marketing Efforts: Use the voucher to invest in digital marketing initiatives such as search engine optimisation (SEO), pay-per-click (PPC) advertising, or social media marketing. These strategies can significantly increase your online visibility and help you reach a broader audience.
  • Training and Support: Investing in training for you and your staff can pay off in spades. It’s essential that everyone is equipped to handle the digital tools and techniques you implement. The TOV can cover training costs, which is a win-win for your business!


For more detailed information on eligible costs, make sure to consult the TOV guidelines.

How Do I Apply for the TOV?

If you’re excited about applying for the TOV, here’s a step-by-step guide to walk you through the process:

  1. Register for an Information Webinar: Start by registering for a TOV information webinar offered by your Local Enterprise Office (LEO). These webinars provide valuable insights into the application process and what you can expect.
  2. Complete the Application Form: After the webinar, download the TOV application form from your LEO’s website. Fill it out with as much detail as possible, outlining your proposed project, objectives, and budget.
  3. Submit Your Application: Once you’ve completed the form, submit it to your LEO for assessment. They’ll review your application and inform you of your approval status.

How Long Does the Approval Process Take?

After submitting your application, you might be wondering how long you’ll need to wait. The approval process typically takes around 1 to 4 weeks. During this time, your LEO will assess your application based on several factors, including:

  • The feasibility of your project
  • The clarity of your objectives
  • The potential impact on your business


If everything checks out, you’ll receive a formal letter of offer detailing the amount approved and any conditions attached.

What Happens After My Application is Approved?

Congrats on your approval! Here’s what to expect next in the process:

  1. Receive Your Offer Letter: You’ll get a letter specifying the approved funding amount and any terms and conditions you need to adhere to.
  2. Select Your Service Provider: You’ll need to choose the service provider for your project. Make sure their offerings align with your goals and that you stick to your budget.
  3. Complete Your Project: Finish your project within the stipulated timeline and adhere to the budget outlined in your application.
  4. Claim Your Voucher: After completing your project, submit all required documentation to your LEO for a final review. This usually includes your offer letter, project plan, and a detailed budget breakdown.

Are There Any Restrictions on What I Can Spend the Voucher On?

Yes, there are some restrictions on how you can use the TOV. Here’s what you need to know:

  • The maximum funding available is €2,500 or 50% of eligible costs (excluding VAT).
  • You must get prior approval from your LEO before starting any work on your project.
  • Some costs, like online advertising and professional photography, may have specific conditions regarding payments.


Make sure to thoroughly review the TOV guidelines to ensure your intended expenses are eligible!

Can I Apply for the TOV More Than Once?

Yes! If your initial application is successful, you can apply for the TOV multiple times in the future. This is an excellent way to keep improving your online presence as your business grows and evolves. Just remember that each application should pertain to a different project.

What If I Need Help with the Application?

Feeling a bit lost? That’s completely normal, especially if it’s your first time applying! Thankfully, you don’t have to navigate this process alone. Our agency specialises in helping small businesses like yours successfully apply for the TOV. We’re here to guide you through every step, from crafting your application to managing your project effectively. We know the ins and outs of the process and are dedicated to making it as smooth as possible for you.

What Are Some Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for the TOV?

To help you increase your chances of success, here are some common mistakes to avoid during the application process:

  1. Incomplete Applications: Ensure every section of the application form is filled out thoroughly. Double-check for any missing information that could delay your approval.
  2. Vague Project Plans: Be specific and detailed about your project, including objectives, budget, and timelines. This clarity demonstrates that you’ve put serious thought into your proposal.
  3. Ignoring Guidelines: Always refer to the TOV guidelines before submitting your application. If you don’t adhere to the rules, your application could be rejected.
  4. Missing Deadlines: Pay attention to application deadlines and requirements set by your LEO. Late submissions or missing documents can hinder your chances of approval.

What Kind of Projects Have Been Funded in the Past?

To give you some inspiration, let’s look at some types of projects that have successfully received funding through the TOV:

  • Local Shops Going Digital: Many local retailers have used the TOV to establish e-commerce websites, allowing them to reach customers beyond their immediate area. For example, a small boutique that initially relied on foot traffic successfully transitioned to online sales and saw a significant boost in revenue.
  • Service Providers Enhancing Online Capabilities: Service-oriented businesses, like hair salons or consulting firms, have utilised the voucher to improve online booking systems and marketing strategies, making it easier for customers to book appointments.
  • Digital Marketing Campaigns: Companies have employed the TOV for targeted digital marketing campaigns, helping them connect with their ideal customers and increase visibility online. One example is a local coffee shop that launched an Instagram campaign to attract new customers through engaging content.


The key takeaway? Align your project with your business goals and ensure it meets the TOV criteria! And for further inspiration, see the clients we worked with here.

How Do I Know If My Business Needs the TOV?

You might be wondering whether your business truly needs the TOV. Here are some questions to consider:

  • Do you have an online presence? If you’re lacking a website or your current site isn’t generating traffic, it might be time to invest in your online capabilities.
  • Are you missing out on potential customers? If you’re not selling products or services online, you could be missing a large segment of your audience.
  • Do you want to enhance your marketing efforts? If you’re not utilising digital marketing strategies, the TOV can help you expand your reach and improve your brand visibility.

Can I Use the TOV to Improve My Social Media Presence?

Absolutely! While the TOV primarily focuses on website development and e-commerce, it can also cover costs related to digital marketing strategies, including social media management and advertising. This means you can use the funding to hire a social media manager, create engaging content, or run targeted advertising campaigns on platforms like Facebook and Instagram. Social media is a powerful tool for businesses to connect with their customers, so investing in this area can yield significant returns.

What If My Application Is Rejected? Can I Reapply?

If your application gets rejected, don’t be discouraged! You can absolutely reapply for the TOV. In fact, it’s a good idea to seek feedback from your LEO about why your application was unsuccessful. This feedback can help you make necessary adjustments before reapplying. When you do reapply, be sure to clearly address the points raised in the previous rejection and provide additional details or documentation that can strengthen your case.

How Can I Measure the Success of My TOV Project?

Once you’ve implemented your project funded by the TOV, it’s essential to measure its success. Here are some key performance indicators (KPIs) you can track:

  • Website Traffic: Use tools like Google Analytics to monitor the number of visitors to your website and understand their behaviour.
  • Conversion Rates: Measure how many visitors are turning into paying customers. This will help you gauge the effectiveness of your e-commerce setup.
  • Social Media Engagement: Track likes, shares, and comments on your social media posts to see how well your content resonates with your audience.
  • Customer Feedback: Collect feedback from customers to understand their experiences and identify areas for improvement.

Final Thoughts

We hope this comprehensive FAQ guide has helped answer your questions about the Trading Online Voucher Scheme. It’s an excellent opportunity for small businesses to enhance their digital presence and connect with more customers. If you still have questions or need assistance with your application, don’t hesitate to reach out to our agency. We have case studies to back up our expertise, and we’re here to help you succeed every step of the way.

Good luck with your TOV application—you’re taking an exciting step toward growing your business online!
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