Quintas Capital Invests €4.5M in Zenith Childcare to Boost Ireland’s Childcare Infrastructure
Quintas Capital has made a €4.5 million investment in Zenith Childcare, backing the company's ambitious plan to establish a network of state-of-the-art crèches across Ireland. The investment reflects Quintas Capital's commitment to social infrastructure and addresses one of the most pressing needs in Irish family life.
The investment is split into an initial €2.25 million and a further €2.25 million allocated for 2025, and was made through the EIIS Innovation Fund - which has raised close to €8 million to invest in Irish businesses focused on social infrastructure, including renewable energy, healthcare and childcare.
in Zenith Childcare
across four locations
to qualifying investors
Pictured: Stephen Moore, CFO of Zenith Childcare; Charlene Roche, CEO of Zenith Childcare; and Kevin Canning, Managing Director of Quintas Capital. Photo: Gerard McCarthy Photography.
The Investment
Quintas Capital's involvement goes beyond funding - it addresses a critical societal need. Kevin Canning, Managing Director of Quintas Capital and Investment Director of the EIIS Innovation Fund, commented on the partnership:
"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."
Kevin Canning, Managing Director, Quintas Capital
For investors, the opportunity comes with an attractive benefit: 50% EIIS tax relief, in addition to a return on investment after four years.
Zenith Childcare's Vision
Led by industry veterans Charlene Roche and Stephen Moore, Zenith Childcare plans to create purpose-built crèches tailored to the needs of modern families. The flagship facility in Bayly, Douglas, Cork is set to open soon, with three more locations planned by end of 2025. Altogether, these facilities will serve up to 500 children - providing a much-needed solution to Ireland's childcare shortage.
"With the government's push for accessible and quality childcare, we're excited to support a new wave of crèche development."
Charlene Roche, CEO, Zenith Childcare
"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."
Stephen Moore, CFO, Zenith Childcare
A Market Built on Demand
With Ireland experiencing a housing boom, the demand for childcare has never been more pressing. Kevin Canning highlighted the structural opportunity underpinning the investment:
"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."
Kevin Canning, Managing Director, Quintas Capital
Pre-revenue childcare businesses holding freehold real estate combine the highest tier of EIIS tax relief (50%) with tangible asset backing - giving investors downside protection alongside a meaningful social return. Zenith's expansion aligns directly with government policy and population-driven demand.
Quintas Capital's Broader Mission
Beyond its investment in Zenith Childcare, Quintas Capital has a long history of supporting Irish SMEs. Since 2007, the firm has backed over 30 businesses, focusing on sectors with high-growth potential and societal impact. In addition to managing the EIIS Innovation Fund, Quintas offers:
- Direct equity investments
- Debt financing
- Strategic advisory services
Pictured: Kevin Canning, Managing Director of Quintas Capital; Charlene Roche, CEO of Zenith Childcare; Stephen Moore, CFO of Zenith Childcare; and Kim Ronayne, Investor Relations Manager of Quintas Capital. Photo: Gerard McCarthy Photography.
If you're a parent looking to secure a spot for your child at one of Zenith Childcare's upcoming crèches, reach out directly at info@zenithcaregroup.com.
Quintas Capital is always on the lookout for investors who share their vision of fostering growth and societal change. If you're interested in exploring investment opportunities, get in touch at info@quintascapital.ie.
Media Coverage
This announcement has been covered by prominent Irish publications including The Irish Examiner, The Echo Newspaper and Cork Beo: