Plans for new creche in Douglas as part of multi-million euro investment 

A new company plans to establish four crèches over the next two years and to do so with the help of a €5.5m investment, beginning with a facility in Douglas.

Zenith Childcare, a new group, led by industry professionals Charlene Roche and Stephen Moore, plans to launch a network of state-of-the-art crèches.

They are starting with a flagship, purpose-built facility in Bayly, Douglas, Cork, and the group has ambitious plans to expand to four crèches to cater for up to 500 children by the end of 2025.

Quintas Capital, a boutique investment firm and manager of the EIIS Innovation Fund, has announced a €2.25m investment in Zenith Childcare, with a further €3.25m earmarked for 2025.

The EIIS Innovation Fund 2024 is targeting €8m to support three to four Irish businesses in the social-infrastructure sectors, such as renewable energy, childcare, and healthcare.

The €5.5m investment marks the fund’s first significant investment in the company, aimed at addressing the growing need for childcare facilities in Ireland.

Quintas Capital is an Irish investment firm dedicated to originating, structuring, and investing in opportunities that drive economic growth and societal impact.

Quintas Capital investors are benefiting from 50% EIIS tax relief as part of their investment.

This will be in addition to a return after four years.

Kevin Canning, managing director of Quintas Capital and investment director of the EIIS Innovation Fund, said: “This investment is a significant milestone for the EIIS Innovation Fund.

“Zenith Childcare, founded by two seasoned industry professionals, is well-positioned to address Ireland’s growing demand for high-quality childcare services.

“Our fund has a robust pipeline of similar investments across the country.

Mr Canning said: “Every housing estate approved for more than 75 homes must include a crèche.

“This creates a unique opportunity for Zenith to capitalise on a market with such high demand but limited readily available facilities,” he said.

Charlene Roche, an experienced professional in the childcare sector, both as a founder and chief operating officer, explained: “With the Government’s push for accessible and quality childcare, we’re excited to support a new wave of crèche development.”

Stephen Moore, who was previously the group finance director of Nua Healthcare and an investor in various businesses, added: “Zenith aims to build childcare for Ireland’s future by creating purpose-built facilities that will help meet the immediate need for increased capacity.

“This partnership with Quintas Capital enables us to achieve our vision,” Mr Moore said.