Waterford recorded the third-highest rate of net job growth in Ireland in 2025, according to new figures from Enterprise Ireland.

The data shows that employment among Enterprise Ireland-supported companies in Waterford increased by 5.7 percent over the year. Companies created 261 net new jobs, strengthening the county’s growing enterprise base.

Across the State, total employment in Enterprise Ireland client companies rose to 232,425, marking a net increase of 2,938 jobs in 2025. Almost seven in ten new jobs were created outside Dublin, with every region recording growth.

The figures highlight strong regional performance and underline the South East’s role as a key driver of employment growth.

Speaking following the publication of the data, Minister of State John Cummins TD said the results reflect sustained investment in regional enterprise.

“These results demonstrate the strength and ambition of Irish businesses and show the impact of supporting regional development”.

He added that Enterprise Ireland-backed firms continue to create high-quality jobs in communities across the country.

The county-by-county breakdown shows that Waterford performed well compared to other regions, placing it among the top three counties nationally for net job growth.

Enterprise Ireland also invested €49.5 million directly in Irish companies in 2025, helping to leverage €440 million in total investment. That funding supported innovation, scaling, and export-led growth across multiple sectors.

Minister Cummins said the figures show that long-term support for enterprise delivers results at local level.

“Our focus on supporting entrepreneurs and growing regional enterprise continues to pay dividends,” he said.

The latest figures reinforce Waterford’s position as an expanding hub for enterprise-led employment, with continued growth across skills-based and export-focused industries.

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