As global companies look for a strategic, low-risk entry point into the EU market, Malta has emerged as a powerful launchpad — especially for organisations operating in AI, digital platforms, MedTech, and high-growth technology sectors. This case study outlines how a start-up U.S. tech company used Malta’s funding ecosystem to build its European base, deepen R&D capabilities, secure external investment, and accelerate product deployment. 1. Objective: Establish an EU Base Wit

Managing Expansion, Multipliers, and the Systems That Let You Sleep at Night Growth is what every business owner dreams of — more clients, higher turnover, new markets. But when that growth arrives faster than expected, it can become the very thing that threatens the company’s survival. There is such a thing as " biting more than you can chew ". At Business Diagnostic , we see this pattern repeatedly: strong businesses achieve sudden success, only to find themselves short on

Accessing financial support is a critical step for any growing business aiming to expand and innovate. In Malta, businesses have a unique advantage due to the availability of various EU funding opportunities designed to stimulate growth, innovation, and competitiveness. Understanding how to unlock these funds can transform your business strategy and accelerate your path to success. Understanding EU Funding Opportunities EU funding opportunities are diverse and cater to differ

If you’re planning to launch, expand, or diversify your business , access to the right industrial space can make or break your strategy. Malta Enterprise’s Rent Subsidy Scheme  is designed exactly for that — to help businesses secure the space they need to grow, without being weighed down by high rental costs. Under this scheme, eligible businesses can benefit from up to 50% of rental costs  (capped at €50,000 per year ) for the first three years  of a new rental agreement —

Malta’s funding environment continues to evolve rapidly. Once centred primarily on start-ups and micro-enterprises, today’s grant and incentive framework is broader, more strategic, and increasingly aligned with long-term competitiveness, innovation, and sustainability. The introduction of enhanced tax credits, wider eligibility criteria, and greater support for digital transformation signals a clear policy direction: investment and innovation are the twin drivers of economic

Payroll costs, workforce retention, and investment support explained The Malta Budget 2026 introduces a mix of wage-support, retention, and investment measures aimed at stabilising employment and encouraging business reinvestment. This article breaks down the key measures that directly affect businesses — from payroll subsidies and wage support to tax credits for capital expenditure — and explains how to apply them strategically within your 2026 planning. 👥 1. Payroll cost a

Growing a business requires more than just a great idea and hard work. It demands access to the right resources, especially capital. Securing funding can be a complex process, but understanding the available options and how to approach them strategically can make all the difference. In this post, I will guide you through the best business funding solutions tailored for businesses in Malta, helping you unlock the potential to expand and thrive. Exploring Business Funding Solut

Growing a business in Malta requires more than just ambition and hard work. It demands a clear understanding of your current position, the challenges you face, and the opportunities available. This is where business performance analysis becomes essential. By systematically evaluating your operations, finances, and market position, you can make informed decisions that drive growth and secure funding, including valuable EU grants. In this post, I will guide you through the imp

Why capital discipline matters more than room count Malta’s hospitality industry continues to show resilience and renewed confidence. According to the National Statistics Office (NSO), guest-nights in collective accommodation increased by 10.4 % year-on-year in Q2 2025, with average occupancy reaching 72.9 %. The growth outlook remains strong, driven by new air routes, diversified source markets, and government ambitions to attract 4.5 million annual visitors over the coming

Growing a business in Malta requires more than just a great idea and hard work. Access to the right financial resources is crucial to scaling operations, entering new markets, and staying competitive. Fortunately, Malta offers a variety of business financing options tailored to support companies at different stages of growth. In this post, I will guide you through the key funding avenues available, practical steps to secure capital, and strategic advice to help you unlock the

In the tech world, almost everyone claims to be “doing R&D.” But if you look closely, most companies are actually doing product...

Every year, the headlines are the same: billions of euros available in EU research and innovation funding. Horizon Europe alone — the EU’s flagship programme for science, innovation, and competitiveness — is worth around €93.5 billion for the 2021–2027 period. For ambitious companies, this can sound like a golden opportunity. But behind the headlines lies a key question: how accessible is this funding, really? The short answer: yes, it is accessible — but only if you understa

The Booking.com Problem Booking.com spends over $4 billion every year on advertising — more than many countries’ tourism boards. For...

Business planning isn’t just about forecasting numbers—it’s about choosing a mindset. Whether you're scaling, stabilizing, or...

Malta is an island state and a full member of the EU with 500,000 inhabitants. It boasts an economy that has been growing at a steady 5%...

Malta is aspiring to become a start-up hub and has early this year launched two schemes in this respect. New Measures, including cash...