Start Up Finance

This Scheme is offered through the Malta Enterprise.

Objective

• Provide financial support to start-ups demonstrating innovative approaches and growth potential beyond Malta.

Key Features

Duration:Available from 1 January 2024 to 31 December 2026, with a total budget of €63 million.

Maximum Support:

Standard start-ups: Up to €500,000. Innovative start-ups: Up to €1,000,000. Start-ups in assisted areas: Up to €750,000, or €1,500,000 for innovative start-ups.

Eligible Entities:

Small, unlisted enterprises up to 5 years from registration. Must employ fewer than 50 full-time equivalents (FTEs) and have a turnover or balance sheet total below €10 million. Businesses must operate in Malta and engage in activities such as manufacturing, software development, health/biotech, or innovative knowledge-based services.

Ineligible Activities:

Real estate, gambling, and wholesale/retail trade without value addition.

Forms of Support

Payroll Costs:Up to 75% for full-time employees in Malta. Up to 100% for part-time employees studying for advanced degrees.

Assets Procurement:Up to 75% for machinery, equipment, and intangible assets like patents and licenses.

Specialized Services:Up to 75% for materials and specialized services related to product/service development.

Setup Costs:Up to 75% for relocation, rent, and operational setup (excluding legal/notarial services).

Application Process

Eligibility:Projects must propose innovative products/services or utilize new/improved processes.

Submission:Applications require a detailed business plan and may include an independent review. Deadline: 30 September 2026.

Evaluation:Focus on financial feasibility, innovation, job creation, market potential, and impact.

Monitoring & Compliance

Disbursement:Funds disbursed quarterly, with progress monitored through biannual reports. Start-ups must meet targets outlined in the approval letter.

Repayment:Funding is a repayable advance, with annual payments tied to pre-tax profits (minimum 10% per annum).

Audits:Beneficiaries are subject to audits and operational reviews.

State Aid Compliance

• Assistance falls under EU General Block Exemption Regulation (GBER).

• Aid is non-transferable and cannot be used for export activities or services favoring domestic over imported goods.

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