HLB Ireland’s Jack Sheehan shares practical advice for ambitious tech businesses navigating financial growing pains.

Dublin, 1 May 2025—Ireland’s tech sector continues to gather momentum. From SaaS and fintech innovators to health tech and AI scale-ups, founders are chasing global markets with ambitious teams. Although the focus is often on growth, there’s a quieter challenge that many overlook until it becomes urgent: managing cash flow.

Tech leaders are moving quickly,” says Jack Sheehan, Technology sector lead at HLB Ireland. “They’re hiring, developing products, and accessing new markets. However, the timing of cash can lag those decisions. That gap puts real pressure on a business, especially when scaling.”

Cashflow Pressures Behind the Scenes

According to the latest HLB Survey of Business Leaders, 47 per cent of respondents identified cash flow and working capital management as a key concern. That pressure is even more acute in Ireland, where many tech firms are still pre-profit or heavily reinvesting in growth.

Jack sees it firsthand in his work with high-growth firms. Many are commercially strong, with a solid product and pipeline, but struggle when funding arrives late, customer payments are delayed, or projections can be overly optimistic.

“Growth creates its own set of challenges. Even successful companies can hit a wall if they haven’t planned for the financial reality of scaling.”

Funding Needs to Be Mapped, Not Assumed

Most early-stage and scaling tech firms manage various funding sources: venture capital, R&D tax credits, grants, and initial revenue streams for services. Each has its timeline and terms, which often don’t match the pace of business growth.

Cash Flow forecasting needs to account for this complexity,” Jack explains. “We help clients model contingencies such as delayed grant payments, or an investor taking an extra month to close. That kind of planning makes you stronger when things shift.

Jack also notes a shift in the funding environment. While capital is still available, there’s more scrutiny and oversight, particularly when timelines stretch. Preparing realistic cash flow models can speed up decision-making and strengthen investor confidence.

Rising Costs Mean Tighter Margins

Operational costs are another growing concern. With high commercial rents and salary inflation, many Irish tech firms feel the squeeze.

“We’re working with companies to manage costs more proactively,” says Jack. “That could mean revisiting office requirements, streamlining operational spend, or outsourcing non-core activity. The key is ensuring every euro is working towards your growth goals.”

Reserves Are More Than a Safety Net

Jack encourages tech businesses to build in a financial buffer and headroom, even with aggressive growth plans. A modest reserve can help cover delays, protect payroll, or act on unforeseen opportunities.

“We understand how hard it is to set aside cash when you’re growing fast,” he says. “But even having one month of costs set aside can change your options. It gives you space to think, and that’s invaluable when things don’t go to plan.”

What Investors Want to See

Investors expect strong financial control when preparing for a funding round or potential sale. Forecasting, internal control systems, and a clear cash position all help demonstrate that the business is well-managed and investment-ready.

“Cashflow tells a story,” Jack says. “It shows how decisions are made and whether leadership controls the business. Investors want to see that you’re not just building a great product, but that you know how to sustain and scale it.”

HLB Ireland Brings Sector Expertise and Commercial Focus

HLB Ireland works closely with technology firms across all stages of growth. From audit and advisory to investor readiness and financial modelling, the team supports founders who need clarity and confidence in their numbers.

“Our clients are building innovative businesses,” says Jack. “We’re here to support you, and with the right financial foundations, whether forecasting, fundraising support, or ongoing advisory, we are the practical partner to help you grow.”

Planning for Sustainable Growth

For Irish tech firms, managing cash flow well is not just about avoiding pitfalls. It’s about giving the business the freedom to grow, act decisively, and weather contingencies without panic.

About HLB Ireland

HLB Ireland advises some of the country’s most ambitious tech businesses, providing audit, tax, advisory, and corporate finance services that support every stage of growth. With sector expertise and a commercial mindset, HLB helps founders build strong financial strategies that unlock opportunity.

Visit www.hlb.ie to learn more or speak with Jack Sheehan about financial planning and cash flow for scaling tech firms.