As part of Public Service Week, three strategic schemes have been officially launched to enhance the capabilities of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Malta. These initiatives — focused on marketing, standards and awards, and internationalisation strategies — are designed to offer both professional guidance and financial support to help local businesses strengthen their position in the domestic market and prepare for expansion abroad.
“A valuable opportunity for SMEs seeking to grow, innovate, and explore new markets”
The schemes are offered within a broader framework co-financed by European Funds, with a strong focus on boosting the competitiveness of Maltese SMEs. The package includes:
Marketing Strategy Scheme: Provides support of up to €10,000 for small companies to develop a marketing plan aimed at reinforcing their presence in the local market while also preparing for international opportunities.
Standards & Awards Scheme: Offers up to €15,000 for businesses to obtain international certifications and awards for excellence, thereby enhancing their credibility and adopting globally recognised practices.
Internationalisation Scheme: Grants up to €20,000 to companies aiming to expand overseas, covering market feasibility studies and expert consultancy to facilitate their entry into foreign markets.
Each scheme is backed by a dedicated budget of €500,000, with public co-financing rates set at 50%, increasing to 60% for start-ups, in line with EU State Aid regulations.
These initiatives are supported by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), which prioritises the international growth of SMEs. For many of these enterprises, this represents a golden opportunity to access specialised advice and enter new markets with reduced risk.
In addition to these schemes, the Government is offering complementary support such as participation in international fairs, global collaborations, and assistance with digital transformation processes.
Since registrations opened in May, six service providers have already enrolled, with more expressing interest. This demonstrates the emergence of a strong support and knowledge ecosystem that Malta’s entrepreneurial community can benefit from.
At a time when Malta is experiencing record economic growth, these schemes mark another strategic step to help local businesses scale their operations and strengthen their foothold in foreign markets.
The Government reaffirms its long-term commitment to economic diversification and the resilience of SMEs through concrete support co-financed by the EU.
Applications are open on a rolling basis, with the first cut-off deadline set for 30 June 2025, followed by subsequent deadlines every two weeks until 12 December 2025.
This is a valuable opportunity for SMEs seeking to grow, innovate, and explore new markets — backed by the professional and financial resources needed to unlock their global potential.
