As Malta continues to provide a robust suite of national and EU-funded incentives aimed at strengthening enterprise competitiveness and supporting sustainable growth, we highlight several targeted schemes that assist undertakings in expanding operations, embracing digital transformation, enhancing market positioning and pursuing international opportunities. Collectively, these incentives reflect Malta’s commitment to fostering an innovative, resilient and internationally oriented business environment. Below are the new funding schemes:
Business Development by Malta Enterprise
The Business Development Scheme supports projects that assists undertakings grow, innovate, or modernise, contributing to Malta’s overall economic development. This includes new business initiatives, expansions, digital transformation, environmental projects, and collaborative ventures, among others. Eligible applicants can receive cash grants or tax credits of up to €300,000 over three years, covering up to 75% of project costs such as wages, equipment, advisory services, and facility upgrades. The assistance offered to undertakings falls under the de minimis regime, and thus contributing to the undertaking’s de minimis balance. The scheme aims to create skilled job opportunities, improve competitiveness, and open up new market prospects, making it an attractive option for businesses looking to expand or innovate. Applications for this scheme shall be accepted until 30 September 2030.
Digitalise Your SME Scheme by Fondi.EU
The Digitalise Your SME Scheme provides non-repayable grants to help Maltese Start-ups and SMEs invest in technologies that improve efficiency, productivity and customer experience. Eligible enterprises may receive between €10,000 and €128,400, plus a 7% flat rate to cover indirect costs. Funding may cover up to 50% of eligible expenses for projects in Malta and 60% in Gozo under the de minimis framework, while Start-ups may benefit from higher aid intensities of up to 60% in Malta and 70% in Gozo. Investments in areas such as cyber security, AI, cloud computing, IoT and big data may also receive an additional 10% top-up in line with Malta’s Digital Decade Strategy. Supported costs include hardware, software, digital solutions, analytical tools and related installation or training. The scheme ultimately aims to help businesses strengthen their digital capabilities, streamline operations, reach new markets and remain competitive in an increasingly technology-driven global economy. Applications for this scheme shall be accepted until 30 June 2026.
Marketing Strategy for Micro & Small Enterprises
The Marketing Strategy for Micro & Small Enterprises scheme offers micro and small enterprises a non-repayable grant of up to €10,000 to assist in developing a professional marketing strategy. By part-financing the cost of engaging an external expert, the scheme supports businesses in strengthening their brand, understanding their market and planning effective promotional activities. With funding covering up to 60% for those enterprises within the five (5) year mark following its registration and 50% for those enterprises exceeding five (5) years following its registration. Applications to avail of this scheme shall remain open until 30 June 2026.
Internationalisation Strategy for SMEs
SMEs seeking to expand into international markets can also be supported through an ERDF-funded, whereby non-repayable grants of up to €20,000 are available for the procurement of a professionally developed internationalisation strategy. The incentive finances external expert services that help businesses identify promising markets abroad, assess global opportunities and design targeted market-entry plans. The available funding covers up to 60% of eligible costs for start-ups and up to 50% for more established enterprises, with support available for either initial market research or a full strategy for selected countries. Through this scheme, your enterprise can gain more defined insights into global demand, assess risks, plan promotional efforts and structure their operations for successful international growth. Applications to avail of the scheme shall remain open until 30 June 2026.
At CLA Malta, we are committed to empowering your business to reach new heights of success. Whether you are in the initial stages of your venture or seeking to expand, we are here to support you in navigating the landscape of funding and growth opportunities. Our dedicated team will guide you through every step of the journey, working closely with you to bring your ideas to life and lay the foundation for sustainable, long-term success. Let us collaborate to turn your business aspirations into achievements.
How can CLA Malta assist you?
- Assisting with devising the right Funding Scheme for Future Projects Implementation
- Assistance with the compilation and submission of an Application for Funding Schemes and supporting documentation
- Assistance with the Claim for Reimbursement Process