This research highlights the importance of family businesses to the Irish economy. In particular, Irish family businesses are an important source of employment. Over the period 2004 to 2012 the number of family businesses has increased and both revenues and exports have grown. However, the data also highlights their relatively small size, 84% are micro businesses – and lower revenues and exports per business, when compared to other Irish businesses in the services sector. Family businesses face challenges that are different from other businesses, like preparing the next generation for management and leadership roles, managing family/business conflict, developing appropriate governance structures, and integrating professional non-family members into the business. It is critical that family businesses learn how to deal with these issues if they are to sustain across generations. This report highlights the importance of family businesses to the Irish economy, and why DCU’s Centre for Family Business is working to support them in their growth ambitions.