This reminds me of myself and business partner, who started a business several years ago and the first port of call was the local City Enterprise Boards followed by the Business Innovation Centre (BIC), followed by Enterprise Ireland.
While we had some success in acquiring feasibility study grants, we found the whole process extremely time consuming and of limited benefit.
I really feel that unless you are 'well connected', your chance of getting funding from certain bodies is limited. If you look at it from their point of view, total strangers coming in off the street are going to be high risk unless they have a killer idea and are very convincing.
Some of these bodies will offer you a business mentor for a small amount of equity. If you go down this road, dont be afraid to ask questions regarding your mentor's background and involvement in start up business. Remember, If you dont have a business background, you will be depending on this mentor to give you good advice.
Try to get a slot at firsttuesday.ie. This is a gathering of entrepreneurs and investors, where the potential investor gives a 4 minute oral presentation on the business idea.
Afterwards, an informal gathering brings together the investors and entreprenuers, each wearing different colour badges. Witin this arena, you will have genuine investors who are willing to look at ideas that they think will work. Dont worry about approaching the investors, if they feel you have a good idea, they will approach you.
Anyhow, good luck with the venture.