Business Start

This Scheme is offered through the Malta Enterprise.

Purpose of the Scheme

• Objective: Provide seed funding to small start-up undertakings to develop their business concepts before seeking further funding or equity.

• Funding Amount: Grants of up to €10,000 are available.

• Duration: The incentive is available until 31 December 2026 with a total budget of €1 million.

Eligibility

Start-Up Criteria:

Must be a small enterprise up to 5 years from registration. Must not have distributed profits or acquired another business exceeding 10% of its turnover. Employ fewer than 50 Full-Time Equivalents (FTEs) and have an annual turnover or balance sheet not exceeding €10 million.

Exclusions:Enterprises owned by individuals with controlling interests in similar sectors. Businesses operating in disqualified sectors under State Aid rules.

Eligible Activities:Manufacturing, software development, industrial services, health, biotech, pharmaceuticals, life sciences, and other innovative activities not readily available in the market.

Funding Details

• Grant Disbursement:€3,000: Upon providing proof of employing at least one part-time or full-time employee and signing a Letter of Approval. €3,500: Upon submitting a comprehensive business plan within 6 months of approval. €3,500: Upon providing proof of maintaining at least one employee and a registered business address.

• Conditions:Funding can be adjusted or recovered if employment requirements are not maintained.

Application Process

Applications must be submitted through Malta Enterprise's client portal before 30 October 2026.

Applicants may seek guidance from the Centre for Entrepreneurship and Business Incubation (CEBI) for concept readiness.

Applications will be evaluated for:

Commercial Feasibility: Market gap or competitive advantage. Financial Feasibility: Likelihood of generating returns. Technological Feasibility: Sound technical concepts.

State Aid Rules

• In line with EU State Aid regulations.

• Aid is not applicable for export-related activities or ventures favoring domestic over imported goods.

• Maximum aid intensity and transparency obligations apply.

Gauci Magri and Partners can assist businesses by:

Advisory Services: Guiding businesses through the application process and ensuring compliance with eligibility requirements.

Funding Optimization: Helping clients allocate funds strategically to maximize benefits from the incentive.

Document Preparation: Assisting with incorporation, application, and due diligence documentation.

Business Support: Supporting clients in identifying suitable accelerator programs aligned with their growth goals.

Let’s Connect

Contact us today at admin@gaucimagri.com to learn how we can help your business thrive.

The Team at Gauci Magri & Partners