Specialist investor BGF to inject further funds into Irish companies

Leo Casey and Micheál Walsh of BGF Ireland.
Micheál Walsh has been appointed as an investor with BGF Ireland, a specialist growth capital investor. He will lead the firm’s origination function in Dublin.
Since its launch in 2017, BGF has invested over €130m in 17 Irish businesses. Backed by the Ireland Strategic Investment Fund (ISIF), AIB, and Bank of Ireland, BGF provides minority equity investments to companies across all sectors.
Micheál brings nearly two decades of experience in corporate lending, origination, and strategic deal-making across Ireland.
Prior to joining BGF, Micheál held senior origination roles at Bank of Ireland and AIB, where he led teams that were focused on sourcing and executing growth-focused lending opportunities.
Leo Casey, head of Republic of Ireland and partner at BGF, said: “Micheál is widely respected for his market knowledge, strong origination track record, and ability to connect with founders, advisors, and investors alike.
“As we continue to expand our presence across Ireland, his insight and network will be instrumental in identifying and partnering with ambitious businesses that have strong growth potential.”
Micheál said: “Irish SMEs are actively seeking investment that enables them to accelerate growth without compromising their vision. BGF is uniquely positioned to meet that demand, and I look forward to contributing to its mission alongside a team that’s deeply embedded in the growth economy.”
Micheál’s appointment comes as BGF Ireland continues to build momentum in the Irish market. Its expanding and diverse portfolio spans sectors including healthcare, technology, specialist manufacturing and consumer.
The firm says that it is committed to backing ambitious businesses in every region of the country. BGF Ireland is part of the broader BGF Group — the most active growth capital investor in the UK and Ireland — with over £4.5bn invested in more than 500 companies since 2011.