The IDA has revealed it is in discussion with some companies regarding setting up a base in Tuam, Co Galway.
The job-creation agency has been criticised locally for failing to secure a major employer for the town's new business park which has remained vacant for over a year.
Galway County Council is considering a planning application for the construction of four units at the IDA facility on the Dunmore Road on the town's outskirts.
These would be suitable for science and technology-based companies, with two of the proposed units approximately 3,000 sq ft and the other units 1,500 sq ft.
Area director for the west and mid-west, Mr Emmanuel Dowdall, said the IDA hoped to move from the planning process through to seeking tenders as smoothly as possible.
Galway County Council is expected to issue a decision on the planning application at the end of this month, and the buildings will be constructed as soon as possible.
Mr Dowdall said the size of the proposed units reflected what medical and technology-type industries required in a very highly skilled workforce with good research capabilities.
He pointed out that Tuam's status as a hub town was very positive in selling it to investors.
"Galway and the west are doing quite well, and Tuam is being marketed aggressively."