G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
23 October  2023 
(23-7127) Page: 1/97 
Committee on Subsidies and Countervailing Measures  Original: English  
 
  
SUBSIDIES  
NEW AND FULL NOTIFICATION PURSUANT TO ARTICLE XVI:1  
OF THE GATT 1994 AND ARTICLE 25 OF THE AGREEMENT  
ON SUBSIDIES AND COUNTERVAILING MEASURES  
EUROPEAN UNION 
Addendum  
The following addendum to the notification of the European Union dated and received on 
17 July 2023 relates to the subsidy programmes of Malta .  
 
_______________  
 
  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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TABLE OF CONTENTS  
  
1   ACCESS TO FINANCE (SOFT LOAN) ................................ ................................ ...........  4 
2   ACCESS TO FINANCE (LOAN GUA RANTEES FOR INITIAL INVESTMENT)  .....................  5 
3   BUSINESS START 2021  ................................ ................................ ............................  7 
4   BUSINESS RE -ENGEERING AND TRANFORMATION SCHEME ................................ ..... 10 
5   CHANGE TO GROW  ................................ ................................ ................................  12 
6   INTEREST RATE SUBSIDY  ................................ ................................ ......................  13 
7   BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT 2021  ................................ ................................ .............  16 
8   CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY SCHEME  ................................ ................................ ...... 18 
9   GOZO TRANSPORT GRANT SCHEME  ................................ ................................ ........  19 
10   MICRO INVEST  ................................ ................................ ................................ .... 22 
11   RENT  SUBSIDY SCHEME  ................................ ................................ .......................  25 
12   RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT 2020  ................................ ................................ ... 26 
13   START -UP FINANCE 2020  ................................ ................................ ....................  29 
14   START -UP FINANCE 2020 (UPDATED SCHEME)  ................................ .....................  32 
15   SMART AND SUSTAINABLE INVESTMENT GRANT  ................................ ..................  34 
16   KICK START 2021  ................................ ................................ ................................  35 
17   INVESTMENT AID FOR ENERGY EFFICIENCY PROJECTS  ................................ .........  36 
18   RESTART  ................................ ................................ ................................ .............  38 
19   EXPLORING  RESEARCH GRANT  ................................ ................................ ............  39 
20   FACILITATING WORK LIFE FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITY  .........................  41 
21   FAMILY BUSINESS GRANT  ................................ ................................ ...................  42 
22   FAMILY BUSINESS TRANSFER OF OWNERSHIP  ................................ .....................  44 
23   SKILLS DEVELOPMENT SCHEME  ................................ ................................ ...........  45 
24   INVESTMENT AID TAX CREDITS 2014 – 2020  ................................ .......................  47 
25   INVESTMENT AID TAX CREDITS 2008 - 2014  ................................ ........................  51 
26   INVESTMENT AID 2021 ................................ ................................ ........................  52 
27   INVEST (SUPPORT FOR INITIAL INVESTMENT PROJECTS)  ................................ .... 53 
28   COVID -19 : INVESTMENT AID FOR THE PRODUCTION OF COVID -19 RELEVANT 
PRODUCTS  ................................ ................................ ................................ .................  55 
29   COVID -19 : SUPPORT TO ENTREPRENEURS AFFECTED BY THE SPREAD  
OF COVID -19 [RENT AND ELECTRICITY PAYMENTS OF BUSINESS PREMISES]  ..............  58 
30   COVID -19 : WAGE SUPPLEMENT SCHEME UNDER THE TEMPORARY FRAMEWORK  
FOR STATE AID MEASURES TO SUPPORT THE ECONOMY IN THE CURRENT COVID -19 
OUTBREAK  ................................ ................................ ................................ .................  60 
31   COVID -19 : BUSINESS CONTINUITY SCHEME 2020  ................................ ...............  61 
32   COVID -19 : SUPPORT FOR LOCAL NEWS MEDIA DURING THE COVID -19  
OUTBREAK  ................................ ................................ ................................ .................  62 
33   COVID -19 : ONE TIME GRANT FOR BUSINESS OPERATIONS  ................................ .. 63 
34   INTERNATIONAL TRADE PROMOTION INCENTIVE SCHEME  ................................ ... 64 
35   COVID -19 MEASURES - LAND  ................................ ................................ ...............  65 G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  36   COVID -19 MEASURES - LIVESTOCK  ................................ ................................ ...... 66 
37   NATIONAL PIG WELFARE  ................................ ................................ .....................  69 
38   TEMPORARY STATE AID TO RECOGNIZED SWINE CO -OPERATIVES  ........................  70 
39   FERTILISER SCHEME TO LAND FARMERS  ................................ ..............................  71 
40   BOAT RESTORATION SCHEME 2021 - 2022  ................................ ...........................  73 
41   COVID -19 FINANCIAL  AID GRANT SCHEME FOR FISHERS  ................................ ..... 74 
42   EMFF 1.9.1 COMPENSATION SCHEME FOR TEMPORARY CESSATION OF  
FISHING ACTIVITIES  ................................ ................................ ................................ . 75 
43   FINANCIALLY COMPENSATING FISHERS DUE TO THE INCREASE OF FUEL  
PRICES CAUSED BY THE RUSSIAN – UKRAINIAN CONFLICT ................................ .........  76 
44   INCENTIVE SCHEME FOR SUSTAINABLE FISHING  ................................ .................  78 
45   WTO STATE AID - SALMONEL LA COMPENSATION TO POULTRY PRODUCERS  
2021 - 2022  ................................ ................................ ................................ ...............  79 
46   TRAINEESHIP SCHEME  ................................ ................................ ........................  81 
47   WORK EXPOSURE SCHEME  ................................ ................................ ...................  83 
48   WORK PLACEMENT SCHEME  ................................ ................................ .................  84 
49   YOUTH GUARANTEE 2.0 SCHEME ESF.01.002  ................................ ........................  86 
50   INTERCEPT PROJECT  ................................ ................................ ...........................  88 
51   TRAINING PAYS SCHEME  ................................ ................................ .....................  89 
52   INVESTING IN SKILLS SCHEME  ................................ ................................ ............  90 
53   ACCESS TO EMPLOYMENT (A2E) SCHEME  ................................ .............................  92 
54   VASTE PROJECT ................................ ................................ ................................ ... 94 
55   EMPLOYMENT SUPPORT SERVICES FOR MIGRANTS (AMIF N11.01)  .......................  95 
 
  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  INTRODUCTION  
This report covers state aid programmes and schemes that were in operation between 2021 and 
2022.  The amounts stated in this report are in the Euro currency ( EUR ). 
1  ACCESS TO FINANCE (SOFT LOAN)  
1. Title of the subsidy  
Access to Finance (Soft Loan) .  
2. Period covered by the notification  
The period covered by this notification starts from the 1st May 2021 until the 31st December  2023.  
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
The scheme has the objective to assist undertakings establish new products or expand overseas, 
address environmental concerns, optimise businesses processes and opt for high level of 
sustainability.  
4. Background an d authority for the subsidy  
Access to Finance (Soft Loan) Regulations (S.L.463.42 ) forms the legal basis for these Incentive 
Guidelines. https://legislation.mt/eli/sl/463.42/eng   
The Incentive Guidelines for Access to Finance (Soft Loan) scheme can be accessed from the 
following link:  Access to Finance (Soft Loan) | Malta Enterprise  
5. Form of the subsidy  
An eligible undertaking may be supported through a soft loan.  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
The scheme is open to registered limited liability companies with the Malta Business Register and 
engaged in a manufacturing or service activity.  
The soft loan will support undertakings to:  
a) facilitate a development or expansion project based on a business plan prepared in view of 
develop ing a new product or entering a new geographic market;  
b) address environmental issues such as water usage, water treatment, waste treatment, 
reduction and reuse;  
c) optimise business processes through digitalisation and advanced technologies;  
d) projects aimed to  achieve a high level of sustainability.  
Supported projects must have an implementation period which is not longer than  (18) months.  The 
loan may cover up to seventy -five percent (75%) of costs related to the proposed project including 
the procurement of assets, wage costs, knowhow and other non -recurring costs. The loan shall, by 
way of collateral, be secured by a special hypothec covering at least fifty percent (50%) of the loan 
amount.  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  The loan amount shall not exceed:  
a) one million euro s (EUR 1 million) (or five hundred thousand euro s (EUR 500,000) for 
undertakings performing road freight transport) and must be repaid over a five (5) year 
term;  
b) five hundred thousand euro s (EUR 500,000) (or two hundred fifty thousand ( EUR 250,000) 
for under takings performing road freight transport) and must be repaid over a ten (10) year 
term.  
The Corporation shall charge a fixed interest rate which is not lower than 0.5% per annum and which 
shall be established after considering the project and the current European Central Bank reference 
rate. 
The Corporation may also agree to a moratorium of not more than 24 months.  
Loans issued in line with the above terms shall be considered to have a gross grant equivalent of 
two hundred thousand euro s (EUR 200,000) (or one hundred euro s (EUR 100,000) for undertakings 
performing road freight transport). If the loan is for less than the amounts indicated in 
Section  3.5 above , and/or is granted for a period of less than five years or ten years as applicable, 
the gross grant  equivalent of that loan shall be calculated as a corresponding proportion of the 
relevant de minimis  ceiling.  
The 5mount t not covered by the loan issued by the Corporation, must be financed through a loan 
issued through a commercial bank and/or through reserves of the undertaking (or other funds 
considered to be the undertaking 's own funds) which shall be specifically alloca ted to the project 
and deposited with a Commercial Bank.  
Drawdowns from the loan provided by the Corporation shall be effected pari passu  with the 
drawdowns made for the loan issued through the Commercial Bank and/or the utilisation of the 
reserves of the  undertaking specifically allocated to the project and deposited with a Commercial 
Bank.  
The loan should be repayable within a period of five (5) years or ten (10) years as outlined in the 
guidelines. The Corporation may agree to a moratorium of not more than 24 months, as long as the 
repayment is still scheduled to be completed within the five (5) year or ten (10) year period as 
applicable.  
7. Amount of the subsidy  
2021 – NIL 
2022 – EUR 980,000.00  
8. Duration of the subsidy  
This incentive measure was implemented on the 1st May 2021 and will expire on 
31st December,  2023.   
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of the subsidy  
There are no effects on international trade.  
2  ACCESS TO FINANCE (LOAN GUARANTEES FOR INITIAL INVESTMENT)  
1. Title of the subsidy  
Access to Finance (Loan Guarantees) .  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  2. Period covered by the notification  
The period covered by this notification starts from the 1st December 2020 until 31st December  2021.  
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
The scheme has the objective to assist small & medium sized enterprises incorporated in the 
European Union as limited liability companies (or equivalent) which plan to establish or expand an 
operational based in Malta.  
4. Background and authority for the sub sidy 
The Access to Finance (Loan Guarantees for Initial Investment) is administered by Malta Enterprise 
Corporation.  
The scheme is designed to provide assistance to undertakings through a guarantee to implement 
initial investment projects where such financ e may not readily be available through commercial 
banks. An eligible undertaking may be supported through a guarantee to be sued against a bank 
loan required for:  
a) setting up of a new establishment; or  
b) the extension of the capacity of an existing establishment.  
The specific legal basis of this measure is Access to Finance Regulations 2021, published as 
Subsidiary Legislation under the Malta Enterprise Act, Chapter 463 of the Laws of Malta – 
https://legislation.mt/eli/ln/2021/71/eng   
The Incentive Guidelines for Access to Finance (Loan Guarantees for Initial Investment) may be 
accessed by using the following link:  Access to Finance (Loan Guarantees for Initial Investment) | 
Malta Enterprise  
5. Form of the subsidy  
Limited availability of funds many times prohibits businesses from carrying out new investment 
projects in synergy with market requirements. This may result in loss of competitive advantage or 
the inability to address business opportunities.  
The eligible undertaking may be supported through a guarantee to be used against a bank loan 
required to finance projects in:  
a) construction (including excavation and other preparatory works if they are carried out within 
the project timeframe), furbishing and finishing of buildings and industrial structures; and  
b) Acquisit ion of plant, machinery and equipment.  
The scheme will only support investment resulting in the establishment or expansion of:  
a) manufacturing activities (NACE Category C);  
b) computer programming activities (NACE Category J 62.01);  
c) technical testing and analy sis activities (NACE Category M 71.20);  
d) research and experimental development activities on natural sciences and engineering 
(NACE Category M 72.1).  
No aid will be granted to those sectors expressly excluded from receiving it in line with Articles 1 
and 13  of the General Block Exemption Regulation.  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
The undertaking must be an SME incorporated in the European Union as a limited liability company 
(or equivalent) which plan to establish or expand an operational base in Malta.  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  The eligible undertaking may be supported through a guarantee to be used against a bank loan 
required to finance projects in:  
a) construction (including excavation and other preparatory works if they are carried out within 
the proje ct timeframe), furbishing and finishing of buildings and industrial structures; and  
b) Acquisition of plant, machinery and equipment.  
Undertakings that are defaulting on VAT, Income Tax, or Social Security payments shall be 
disqualified, unless they are hono uring a repayment agreement with the Revenue Department in 
respect of any arrears signed at least six (6) months prior to the date of application.  
The Undertaking must not be an "Undertaking in Difficulty ". However, this scheme shall apply by 
derogation t o undertakings which were not in difficulty on 31 December 2019 but became 
undertakings in difficulty in the period from 1st January 2020 to 30th June 2021.  
The investment and resultant economic activity shall be retained in Malta for a minimum period of 
at least three (3), after completion of the investment project. This shall not prevent the replacement 
of plant or equipment that has become outdated or broken within this period, provided that the 
economic activity is retained in the area concerned for the  relevant minimum period.  
The beneficiary shall provide a financial contribution of at least twenty -five percent (25%) of the 
eligible costs, either through its own resources or by external financing, in a form, which is free of 
any public support.  
Support shall not be provided to any undertaking which is subject to an outstanding recovery order 
following a previous Commission decision declaring an aid granted to the undertaking by Malta as 
illegal and incompatible with the internal market.  
Any initi al investment started by the same beneficiary (at group level) within a period of three years 
from the date of start of works on another aided investment in the same level 3 region of the 
Nomenclature of Territorial Units for Statistics shall be considered  to be part of a single investment 
project. Where such single investment project is a large investment project, the total aid amount for 
the single investment project shall not exceed the adjusted aid amount for large investment projects.  
The undertaking m ust not have carried out a relocation to the establishment in which the initial 
investment for which aid is requested is to take place, in the two (2) years preceding the application 
for aid and must commit that it will not carry out a relocation up to a p eriod of two (2) years after 
completion of the supported initial investment.  
7. Amount of the subsidy  
2021 - EUR 631,015.00  
8. Duration of the subsidy  
The Access to Finance (Loan Guarantees for Initial Investment) scheme was effective as from 
1st December 2020 until 31st December 2021.   
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of the subsidy  
There are no effects on international trade.  
3  BUSINESS START 2021  
1. Title of the Subsidy  
Business Start 2021 . G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  2. Period covered by the notification  
The period covered by this notification starts from the 1st January 2021 until 31st December  2023.  
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
The Business Start 2021 scheme offers seed and growth funding for start -ups. The measure support s 
small start -ups undertaking that have a viable business concept throughout their development phase 
prior to seeking third party equity.  
Most existing start -ups face significant challenges as they are more vulnerable than older incumbents 
to the shock bro ught by the pandemic. They tend to engage in high -risk activities compared with 
other small and medium -sized firms (SMEs), face constraints in accessing traditional funding. They 
also often crucially rely on a small founding team, and this can further incr ease their vulnerability to 
labour supply shocks during the pandemic.  
At a time marked by significant economic uncertainty and with their revenues affected by 
containment measures and significant drop in demand, start -ups become even more financially 
fragile and need support for their short -term liquidity needs, critical for their survival. Hence this 
measure has been purposely designed to support eligible small undertakings with an initial grant to 
develop further their business concept and/or to support t hem with their strategy for growth.  
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
Business Start 2021 administered  by Malta Enterprise Corporation.  
Assistance to Small Business Start 2021, Regulations 2021 as subsidiary legislation 463.37 to the 
Malta Enterpri se Act, Chapter 463 of the Laws of Malta forms the national legal basis of this Aid 
Scheme.  
https://legislation.mt/eli/ln/2021/44/eng/pdf   
The Incentive Guidelines for Business START 2021 may be accessed by using the following link:  
Business Start 2021 | Malta Enterprise  
5. Form of the subsidy  
Business START  will offer  assistance to small -start-up undertakings. The Corporation shall only 
consider requests for support submitted within forty -eight months from the date of establishment of 
the undertaking requesting support. The applicant must still qualify as Small Start -up Undertaking 
on the date the application is submitted.  
An initial seed f unding of up to ten thousand euro s (EUR 10,000) may be awarded to start -up 
undertakings that are still in their early development phase. Such start -ups would have a business 
idea however might not be backed as yet with a formal business plan.  
Meanwhile tho se start -ups with a sound Business Plan that the Corporation will score as economically 
viable, may be awarded a maximum grant of two hundred thousand euro s (EUR 200,000) The award 
is limited to twenty thousand euro s (EUR 20,000) per quarter and shall be granted for a period not 
exceeding thirty -six (36) months.  
The grant shall be disbursed at three -month interval. Each disbursement shall be calculated by 
multiplying two thousand euro s to the total number of full time employees who have been engaged 
with t he beneficiary at least one full month.  
The Corporation may also approve that up to five thousand euro s (EUR 5,000) of the grant are 
disbursed to finance the procurement of assets required for the business operation.  
To benefit from the scheme, beneficiar ies must classify under:   
a) manufacturing;  
b) software development;  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  c) industrial services analogues to manufacturing;  
d) health, Biotechnology, Pharmaceuticals and Life Sciences;  
e) other innovative economic activities which are enabled through knowledge and technology 
providing services or products which are currently not readily available in the relevant 
market or which shall be provided through a process which is novel.   
In order to be eligible for assistance under this incentive, beneficiaries must fulfil at least two of the 
following criteria:  
a) the proposed products and/or services that have the potential to generate income from 
various geographical markets.  
b) the applicant produces or intends to produce products which are new or substantially 
improved compa red to existing products on the market or provides or intends to provide 
services which are new or substantially improved compared to existing services on the 
market.  
c) the applicant shall utilise processes, which are new or substantially improved compared t o 
those adopted in current complementary activities.  
Applicants must be classified in activities which fall under the following NACE codes:  
B   Mining and Quarrying  
C   Manufacturing  
D   Electricity, gas, steam and air conditioning supply  
E   Water supply, sewerage, waste management and remediation activities  
G   Wholesale and retail trade; repair of motor vehicles and motorcycles  
H   Transportation and storage  
I   Accommodation and food service activities  
J   Information and communication  
K   Financ ial and Insurance Activities  
M   Professional, scientific and technical activities  
N   Administrative and support service activities  
P   Education  
Q   Human health and social work activities  
R.90  Creative, arts and entertainment activities  
R.91  Libraries, archives, museums and other cultural activities  
R.93  Sports activities and amusement and recreation activities  
S   Other Service Activities  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
PRE-BUSINESS PLAN SUPPORT  
An initial seed funding of up to ten thousand euro s (EUR 10,000) may be awarded to start -up 
undertakings that are still in their early development phase. Such start -ups would have a developed 
business concept which is not yet backed by a formal business plan.  
The extent of support will be de termined by the Corporation after taking into consideration the 
innovative elements of the proposed business, the employment levels at application stage and the 
vision of the promoters on how to further develop their business. The support awarded may be 
disbursed within twelve (12) months from the approval of the support:  
a) at a rate of five hundred euro s (EUR 500) per month once the beneficiary registers as a 
self employed or engages at least one person on a part time basis. The rate may be increased 
to one thousand euro s (EUR 1,000) per month if the beneficiary registers as a full time 
self employed or engages at least one (1) person on a full time basis ;  
b) up to five thousand euro s (EUR 5,000) of the amount may be claimed as reimbursement of  
50% of the costs incurred:  
i. for mentoring from academic institutions in relation to business and 
entrepreneurship, innovation and business planning ; G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  ii. in financing an advisory services contract required to support the beneficiary in the 
business planning pr ocess, if the advisory service was approved by the Corporation 
prior to the commencement of the services.  
POST - BUSINESS PLAN SUPPORT  
Eligible Start -ups that present a Business Plan and which the Corporation finds economically viable, 
may be awarded a max imum grant of two hundred thousand euro s (EUR 200,000). The award is 
limited to twenty thousand euro s (EUR 20,000) per quarter and shall be granted for a period not 
exceeding thirty -six (36) months.  
The grant shall be disbursed at three (3) month interval s. Each disbursement shall be calculated by 
multiplying two thousand euro s (EUR 2,000) to the total number of Full Time Employees who have 
been engaged with the beneficiary for at least one (1) full month.  
The Corporation may also approve that up to five thousand euro s (EUR 5,000) of the grant are 
disbursed to finance the procurement  of assets required for the business operation.  
A Beneficiary shall be required to submit to the Corporation periodic reports covering six (6) month 
period on the progress achieved highlighting any changes to the original plan. Within 
twenty -four (24) mon ths from establishment date and annually thereafter, the beneficiary is also 
required to submit a copy of the management accounts signed by a Certified Public Accountant. The 
Corporation shall discontinue or suspend the support if the beneficiary fails to submit these 
documents within three (3) months of the established deadlines or fails to satisfy the Corporation of 
its commitment to establish a sustainable business.  
7. Amount of the subsidy  
2021 – EUR 761,000.00  
2022 – EUR 975,000.00  
8. Duration of the subsidy  
This Support Measure was launched on 1st January 2021 and will expire on 31st December 2023.  
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of the subsidy  
There were no effects on international trade.  
4  BUSINESS RE -ENGINEERING AND TRAN SFORMATION SCHEME  
1. Title of the subsidy  
 Business Re -Engineering and Transformation Scheme .  
2. Period covered by the notification  
The period covered by this notification starts from the 1st September 2020 and 31st December 202 3.  
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
The scope of this measure is to support small and medium -sized enterprises (SMEs) to realign their 
business activity, restructure their employees, re -engineer their product and/or service portfolio, 
optimi se the use of technology and embrace green technology and practices.  
The scheme will assist small and medium -sized enterprises (SMEs) to access advisory services to 
re-engineer and transform their business in line with their strategy.  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  4. Background and auth ority for the subsidy  
The COVID -19 pandemic has brought fast -moving and unexpected variables, some of which 
companies weren 't prepared to handle.  
The objective of this measure is to assist eligible undertakings to access advisory services to help 
them realign and transform their business activity and help them to optimise the use of technology 
and embrace green technology and practices.   
The Business Re -Engineering and Transformation scheme is administered by Malta Enterprise 
Corporation.  
The Business A dvisory Support Regulations, 2020 as Subsidiary Legislation 463.36  [Malta Enterprise 
Act, Chapter 463 of the Laws of Malta ] provides the legal basis of this incentive . 
https://legislation.mt/eli/sl/463.36/eng/pdf   
The Incentive Guidelines for the Business Re -Engineering and Transformation Scheme  are accessible 
on the following li nk: Business Re -Engineering and Transformation Scheme | Malta Enterprise  
5. Form of the subsidy  
The assistance provided is in the form of a cash  grant.   
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
This Incentive is open to small and medium sized undertaking.  The aid covers 50% of the costs and 
grant shall not exceed EUR 5,000 per advisory service per undertaking.  
Through this measure, eligible beneficiaries (SMEs) may only be supported once in any eighteen 
(18) month period.  
Projects must be of strategic significance and should address one or more of the following objectives:  
a) digitisation of business processes inc luding the deployment of digital technologies, such as 
IoT, artificial intelligence, machine learning and predictive analytics ; 
b) improve operational performance, reduce errors and improve accountability following a 
review processes to identify inefficient u se of resources ;  
c) improvements to the flow of goods, materials and/or information following a review of the 
interaction between functions ;  
d) improve environmental performance by identifying waste streams and resource usage.  
e) support the implementation of qua lity systems and the attainment of product process 
certifications ; 
f) review customer handling procedures and propose solutions to enable excellent customer 
service ; 
g) assess market dynamics, fluctuation in demand and changes in consumer behaviour to 
reposition product and service offering as may be required.  
A support assignment must include the participation of at least two individual advisors who meet 
anyone of the fo llowing criteria:  
a) the advisor holds a post graduate university degree in a scientific, technical or behavioural 
science area (such as engineering, information technology, industrial psychology and 
economics);  
b) the advisor is a warranted accountant;  
c) the adv isor holds a post graduate degree in business studies, business administration or 
equivalent (as may be determined by the Corporation);  
d) the advisor has served a minimum of five (5) years in a CEO, COO or top management 
position in a reputable medium sized or large organisation (as may be determined by the 
Corporation).  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  Eligible projects must be new assignments that are to be completed within twelve (12) months from 
the approval date and should address the analysis, review, recommendations and implementatio n 
support.   
The eligible costs shall be the costs of consultancy services provided by external consultant/s. The 
appointed advisors must not be a direct or indirect employee, director or shareholder of the recipient 
company.  
The advisory services provided  shall not be a continuous or periodic activity nor relate to the 
undertaking's usual operating costs, such as routine tax consultancy services, regular legal services 
or advertising.  
7. Amount of the subsidy  
2021 – EUR 23,335.00  
2022 – EUR 29,035.00  
8. Duration of the subsidy  
This Incentive will be available between 1st September 2020 until 31st December 2023.  
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of the subsidy  
There are no effects on international trade.  
5  CHANGE TO GROW  
1. Title of the subsidy  
Change to Grow .  
2. Period covered by the notification  
The period covered by this notification starts from the 1st July 2021 until the 31st December  2022.  
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
Enterprise provided assistance to businesses that have a chance to improve their performance and 
grow by taking the opportunity to enhance their processes, embrace digital technology and 
implement sustainable solutions. The Change to Grow initiative supports businesses kick -start 
transform ation processes that lead to growth, sustainability, and optimised performance.   
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
This is an administrative scheme and has been designed in line wtih de minimis  aid regulation.  
5. Form of the subsidy  
Assistance under this scheme is awarded in the form of a cash grant.  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
This scheme will cover both an  Advisory Stage and an Implementation Phase. During the Advisory 
Stage, support will be limited to a maximum of five thousand euro s (EUR 5,000) and up to 
one hundred and twenty euro s per hour ( EUR 120/hr) excl . VAT related to qualifying advisory 
services.  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  The Corporation shall consider supporting advisory services in areas that address a strategic shift in 
the operation of an enterprise, such as:  
a) digitisation of business processes ; 
b) performance optimisation ; 
c) process improvements ; 
d) environmental performance and sustainability ;  
e) implementation of quality systems ; 
f) product process certifications ; 
g) customer handling procedures ; 
h) pricing analysis ; 
i) market positioning ; 
j) human resource optimisation ;  
k) other actions as may be justified by the applicant.  
Following the outcome of the advisory services and the recommendations made in the Advisory 
report the beneficiary may request additional support to kick start the change process. The Advisory 
Report can identify up to five (5) investment costs which should be carried out in preparation or for 
the implementation of the change process.   
The Corporation shall give access to a further five thousand euro s (EUR 5,000) incurred for the 
implementation of the recommendations highlighted by the advisory s ervice. In addition, out of the 
EUR 5,000 up to five hundred ( EUR 500) of this funding can be utilised to finance additional advisory 
support required during the implementation phase as identified by the Advisor.  
The following shall be deemed as eligible c osts covered by the scheme under the implementation 
phase : 
• investment costs in tangible assets ; 
• procurement of off -the-shelf- software solution (including new licenses);  
• new subscriptions to SaaS solutions, covering a period of up to 12 months;  
• one-off ser vices or the initial engagements covering a period of three months of service 
providers addressing new solutions to which the beneficiary had no prior access.  
7. Amount of the subsidy  
2021 – EUR NIL 
2022 – EUR 270,673.50  
8. Duration of the subsidy  
This scheme has expired on 31st December, 2022.  
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of the subsidy  
There are no effects on international trade.  
6  INTEREST RATE SUBSIDY  
1. Title of the subsidy  
Interest Rate Subsidy Scheme .  
2. Period covered by the notification  
The period covered by this notification starts from the 1st July 2019 until the 31st December  2022.  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
The Interest Rate Subsidy Scheme shall  support qualifying businesses by subsidising the cost of debt 
finance of a term loan. Through this support, Malta Enterprise is aiming to facilitate investment in 
industry and innovative setups by enabling them to develop their operations and take product s and 
services to the market.  
When business undertakings embark on investment projects the volume and extent of the 
investment may be restricted by their ability to finance debt. This may result in projects being 
postponed, having a reduced scope and in so me instances cancelled. The purpose of this scheme is 
to actually support qualifying businesses by subsidising the cost of debt finance of a term loan.  
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
This Incentive is administered by Malta Enterprise Corporation.  
The Interest Rate Subsidy Regulations 2019, as subsidiary legislation 463.31 to the Malta Enterprise 
Act, Chapter 463 of the Laws of Malta forms the national legal basis of this Aid Scheme.  
https://le gislation.mt/eli/sl/463.31/eng  
The Incentives can be accessed through the below link:  
https://www.maltaenterprise.com/support/interest -rate-subsidy   
5. Form of the subsidy  
Aid provided by this support measure is a subsidy on the interest rate payable on loans.  
The Corporation may support eligible initial investment projects with an Interest Rate Subsidy that 
shall not exceed an interest rate equivalent to three percent (3%) per annum. In any case, 1% of 
the interest rate charged by the bank must be paid by the beneficiary.  Irrespective of the term of 
the loan, the subsidy shall only be available up to the tent h (10th) year from the date of the initial 
drawdown.   
The Corporation shall establish a maximum annual subsidy in its approval.   
The Aid awarded under this incentive shall be calculated at the net present value of future subsidies 
using the discount rate established in relation to the Base Rates  calculated in accordance with the 
Communication from the  Commission on the revision of the method for s etting the reference and 
discount rates  (OJ C 14, 19.01.2008, p.6.). The reference rate to be used for discounting purposes 
shall be the discount rate applicable at the moment the aid is granted.   
The Beneficiary shall b e required to provide details of a specific loan account which shall be used 
exclusively to pay all eligible costs related to the supported investment project.  The Corporation 
shall only consider eligible payments made directly through from this loan accou nt. 
The beneficiary shall provide a financial contribution of at least 25% of the eligible costs whether 
through its own resources or by external financing in a form which is free of any public support.  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
Loan interest  rate subsidies shall only be awarded in favour of an initial investment project having 
a Start of Works after the Corporation 's approval and not later than 31st December 2022.  
The loan covered by the subsidy shall be used to procure tangible assets which  may consist solely 
of construction and/or modification of buildings, plant, machinery and equipment required for the 
initial investment project.  All costs must be incurred within 36 months from the first draw down.  
Qualifying Costs shall include finishing  costs of buildings and structures such as rendering, cabling, 
and other similar costs that are an integral part of the initial investment project.  These costs shall 
be considered as eligible if the applicant demonstrates that these costs are an integral p art of the 
investment and are required for the project to become operational.  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  All assets acquired shall be new except for costs related to the acquisition of assets belonging to an 
establishment that has or would have closed down had it not been purchased . If the applicant is an 
SME, the Corporation shall consider used plant, machinery and equipment as eligible as long as such 
assets have not previously been used in Malta.  
The tangible assets must be maintained in Malta by the by the undertaking for at lea st five (5) years 
or at least three (3) years in the case of SMEs, after completion of the investment. This shall not 
prevent the replacement of plant or equipment that has become outdated or broken within this 
period. In any case the underlying economic a ctivity shall be retained in Malta for the minimum 
period of at least five [5] years or three [3] years in the case where the beneficiary is an SME.  
The following costs shall in no instance be considered as eligible:  
• the purchase, acquisition or lease of land and buildings;  
• acquisition of vehicles (include aircraft, boats and ships);   
• acquisition of works of art, antiques and collectables;  
• acquisition of assets through a financial lease;  
• intangible assets.  
Loan interest rate subsidies shall only be awarded to SMEs and large undertakings to support loans 
used to finance an initial investment.  
a) Eligibility criteria for SMEs to support loans used to finance an initial investment resulting  in:  
❖ the setting -up of a new establishment;  
❖ the extension of the capacity of an existing establishment;  
❖ a fundamental change in the overall production process of an existing establishment;   
❖ the diversification of the output of an establishment into products not previously 
produced in the establishment;  
❖ the acquisition from an unrelated seller of assets belonging to an establishment that 
has closed or would have closed had it not been purchased.  This excludes the sole 
acquisition of the shares of an undertaking. The transaction shall take place under 
market conditions. If aid has already been granted for the acquisition of assets prior to 
their purchase, the costs of those assets shall be deducted from the eligible costs related 
to the acquisition of an establishment. Where a member of  the family of the original 
owner, or an employee, takes over a small enterprise, the condition that the assets be 
bought from third parties unrelated to the buyer shall be waived.   
b) Eligibility criteria for Large Undertakings to support loans used to finan ce an initial 
investment in favour of a new economic activity resulting in:  
❖ the setting up of a new establishment, or the diversification of the activity of an 
establishment, under the condition that the new activity is not the same or a similar 
activity to the activity previously performed in the establishment. For aid granted for 
a diversification of an existing establishment, the eligible costs must exceed by at least 
200% the book value of the assets that are reused, as registered in this fiscal year 
preceding the start of works;  
❖ the acquisition from an unrelated seller, of assets belonging to an establishment that 
has closed or would have closed had it not been purchased under the condition that 
the new activity to be performed using the acquired asset s is not the same or a similar 
activity to the activity performed in the establishment prior to the acquisition.  The 
transaction shall take place under market conditions. If aid has already been granted 
for the acquisition of assets prior to their purchase , the costs of those assets shall be 
deducted from the eligible costs related to the acquisition of an establishment. Where 
a member of the family of the original owner, or an employee, takes over a small 
enterprise, the condition that the assets be bought  from third parties unrelated to the 
buyer shall be waived. The acquisition of shares does not constitute initial investment.   
Any initial investment started by the same undertaking (at group level) within a period of 
three (3) years from the date of start  of works on another aided investment in the same 
level 3 region of the Nomenclature of Territorial Units for Statistics shall be considered to be part of G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  a single investment project. Where such single investment project is a large investment project, the 
total aid amount for the single investment project shall not exceed the adjusted aid amount for large 
investment projects.  
The Beneficiary shall confirm that it has not carried out a relocation to the establishment in which 
the initial investment for which  aid is requested is to take place, in the two years preceding the 
application for aid and give a commitment that it will not do so up to a period of two years after the 
initial investment for which aid is required is completed.  
APPLICABLE AID INTENSITIES:  
The value of aid in gross grant equivalent shall be adjusted to ensure that the total amount of aid 
for a given investment project shall not exceed:  
a. 30% of the qualifying expenditure for an undertaking which qualifies as a "Small " 
undertaking;  
b. 20% of the qualifying expenditure for an undertaking which qualifies as a "Medium -sized" 
undertaking;  
c. 10% of the qualifying expenditure for an undertaking which qualifies as a "Large " 
undertaking;  
7. Amount of the subsidy  
2021 – EUR 549,462.00  
2022 – NIL 
8. Duration of the subsidy  
The scheme was suspended in 2021 since the measure fell under regional aid which rules were under 
negotiations.  
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of the subsidy  
There are no effects on international trade.  
7  BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT 2021  
1. Title of the subsidy  
Business Development 2021 . 
2. Period covered by the notification  
The period covered by this notification starts from the 1st January 2021 until the 
31st December  2023.  
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
The Business Development Scheme will facilitate value added projects, including new business 
initiatives, expansions and transformation activities that shall contribute to the regional development 
of Malta. The scheme may support various activities such as the initial development phase of 
undertakings establishing an operational base in Malta, expansion projects, consolidati on of activities 
and the reengineering of business processes.  Supported initiatives should lead to new opportunities, 
additional employment, increased competitiveness or widening market reach.  
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
This Incentive is admi nistered by Malta Enterprise Corporation.  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  The Business Development 2021, Regulation 2021 SL 463.38 [ Malta Enterprise Act, Chapter 463 of 
the Laws of Malta]  provide the legal basis of this incentive . 
https://legislation.mt/eli/ln/2021/53/eng   
The Incentive Guidelines for the aid scheme Business Development Scheme  are accessible on the 
following link : Business Development 2021 | M alta Enterprise  
5. Form of the subsidy  
The Corporation may award tax credits or cash grants of up to EUR 200,000 to undertakings that 
carry out a project aimed to expand and transform their operations or to consolidate thei r current 
activities and reengineer their business processes.  
The total amount of de minimis  aid granted to a single undertaking shall not exceed the amount of 
EUR 200,000 [or EUR 100,000 in case of undertakings performing road freight transport for hire or 
reward] over any period of three consecutive fiscal years.  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
The scheme will only support projects related to future developments of the following activities:  
a) manufacturing;  
b) management of waste and environmental solutions;  
c) research and Development activities  
d) provision of industrial services and solutions to manufacturing operations;  
e) digitisation of processes;  
f) development of digital service and systems (including video games a nd entertainment 
systems) intended for international markets;  
g) maintenance, repair and overhaul of aircraft and other electromechanically equipment;  
h) artisanal works;  
i) services that by nature are not limited to geographic scope and are scalable internationall y.  
Projects that do not address the above activities but which may lead to increase in business 
performance and innovation, may be supported through tax credits.   
The Corporation shall also consider projects submitted by business associations that lead to  solutions 
of common benefit to all undertakings engaged in a specific sector or sectors.  
The eligible costs for this Support Measure shall be as follows:  
• Relocation Costs of Key Personnel  
• Payroll Costs  
• Lease and Rental of Real Estate  
• Support and Advisory Services  
• Rights, Licences and Certifications  
• Relocation of Tangible Assets  
• Construction and Development of facilities for Manufacturing activities  
A due diligence may be required prior to the granting of aid under this Measure to establish that t he 
proposed project is feasible and demonstrates a fair chance of success.  
Once the project is approved, a Letter of Approval shall be issued detailing the conditions of the 
award that may impose further restrictions beyond those specified in the Guideline s. The Letter of 
Approval shall indicate the value of aid approved and whether the aid was awarded as a fiscal tax 
credit or a cash grant.   
The Corporation may also agree to disburse any cash grant awarded as an advance payment if the 
Beneficiary increases the amount of paid -up share capital in the company to an amount which is 
equivalent to the aid approved.  Any such increase in share capital must be confirmed through a 
financial transaction confirmed through Bank documentation.  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  7. Amount  of the subsidy  
2021 – EUR 4,366,206.00  
2022 – EUR 6,084,019.00  
8. Duration of the subsidy  
The commencement date of this aid scheme was 1st January, 2021 and will run until 
31st December  2023.  
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of  the subsidy  
There are no effects on international trade.  
8  CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY SCHEME  
1. Title of the subsidy  
Support for the Construction Industry to replace existing machinery with new, more environmentally 
friendly machinery and equipment . 
2. Period covered by the notification  
The period covered by this notification started from 1st December 2020 until 31st December, 2021.  
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
The scheme will assist operators in the construction industry to scrap and replace  old machinery 
and/or equipment with new machinery and/or equipment that generates less environmentally 
harmful emissions and to invest in equipment that has the sole purpose of reducing the 
environmentally harmful emissions released by the activity. The s cheme will help operators in the 
industry to replace ageing machinery and/or equipment which is still in operation with new modern 
machinery and/or equipment which is more efficient and has a lower impact on the environment.  
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
The Support for Construction Industry to replace existing machinery with new, more environmentally 
friendly machinery and equipment scheme is an administrative scheme in line with the de minimis  
aid regulation.  
The guidelines are accessible from the following link:  
https://www.maltaenterprise.com/support/construction -industry -scheme   
5. Form of the subsidy  
Assistance will be awarded in the form of a cash grant covering up to forty percent (40%) of the 
costs incurred to replace machinery and/or equipment used in construction activities and that was 
manufactured prior to 2015, with new machinery and/or equipme nt that is equivalent or better and 
which result in a reduction in harmful emissions.   
The Corporation shall consider additional support of up to:  
twenty percent (20%) if the new machinery and/or equipment is powered by an electric engine 
(battery);  
or 
ten percent (10%) if the new machinery and/or equipment is powered by a hybrid engine.  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  The Corporation may award a cash grant covering up to forty percent (40%) of the costs incurred 
by the eligible undertaking to procure new machinery and/or equipment used e xclusively to reduce 
harmful emissions.   
The Corporation may award a cash grant covering up to twenty -five percent (25%) of the costs 
incurred by the eligible undertaking to replace machinery and/or equipment used in construction 
activities and that was ma nufactured prior to 2015, with second hand machinery and/or equipment 
that is equivalent or better and which will result in a reduction in harmful emissions, provided that 
such equipment:  
a) has been manufactured after 2016; and  
b) has not been previously used in Malta; and  
c) is certified to meet the original environmental parameters as manufactured by a certified 
engineer.  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
This measure is available to all undertakings operating in the construction industry.  
The eligible costs are the costs incurred for the replacement of current machinery and/or equipment 
used in construction that was manufactured prior to 2015, with new machinery and/or equipment 
that is equivalent or better and which will result in a reduct ion in harmful emissions.  
As part of the application process, a warranted engineer must provide an estimate of the reduction 
in emissions (for different airborne pollutant):  
a. based on a typical day of the machinery being replaced through a comparison betwe en the 
new equipment and the one being replaced. This comparison should be based on the official 
manufacturer specification and/or actual testing (such as VRT test data or data gathered 
from environmental monitoring equipment) ;  
or 
b. where the equipment to be purchased will have the sole purpose of reducing the 
environmentally harmful emissions released by the construction activity, the estimate must 
take into consideration the expected activities of the applicant where the equipment w ill be 
used over twelve months.  
Except in instances where the equipment to be purchased will have the sole purpose of reducing the 
environmentally harmful emissions released by the construction activity, the applicant will also be 
required to provide the latest maintenance & test inspection records of the last two years and a copy 
of the insurance policy for the equipment being replaced.   
7. Amount of the subsidy  
2021 – EUR 3,539,140.00  
8. Duration of the subsidy  
This aid scheme was effective from 1st December, 2020 and expired on 31st December 2021.  
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of the subsidy  
There are no effects on international trade.  
9  GOZO TRANSPORT GRANT SCHEME  
1. Title of the subsidy  
Gozo Transport Grant Scheme . G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  2. Period covered by the notification  
This measure came into force on 1st January 2016. An update was carried out on 1st January 2021 
which will cover costs incurred until 31st December 2022.  
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
The aim of this support measure Gozo Transport Grants Scheme is to support manufacturing 
undertakings operating from Gozo by reducing the additional inter -island transport cost incurred for 
transporting materials, goods and finished products between Malta and Gozo.   
This assistance serves to reduce the cost -disadvantages for manufacturers based in Gozo, rendering 
these businesses in a better position to compete effectively within the single market.  
The benefits expected to be derived from this incentive are  in relation to providing assistance to 
counter the effect of the additional operating expenses, which manufacturing companies operating 
from Gozo have to incur as a direct result of the double insularity of the sister island. The incentive 
assists SMEs to  be more competitive.  Competitive and dynamic SMEs tend to make a sizeable 
contribution to the national economy. Such SMEs drive the GDP and the productivity growth.  
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
This Incentive is administered by Malta Enterpris e Corporation. The Enterprise Support Incentives 
Regulations SL 463.04  [Malta Enterprise Act, Chapter 463 of the Laws of Malta ] provides the legal 
basis of this incentive . 
http://justiceservices.gov.mt/DownloadDocument.aspx?app=lom&itemid=11609&l=1  
The Incentive Guidelines for the aid scheme Gozo Trans port Grant Scheme  are accessible on the 
following link:  https://www.maltaenterprise.com/support/gozo -transport -grant -scheme   
5. Form of the subsidy  
The aid shall be granted in the form of a cash grant.  
QUALIFYING COSTS  
[a] Transport Expenses incurred using owned or leased commercial vehicles  
The Corporation will calculate the grant on the basis of the number of trips which shall be established 
by taking into account the number of ferry tickets submitted.  The grant per trip shall be based on 
the vehicle utilised which shall be determined from the ticket presented as per details in the table 
below.   
Ticket Presented  Grant Per Trip ( EUR ) 
Car and Driver Gozo Resident Subsidised Fare1 50 
Gozo Subsidised Commercial Vehicle Category 2  60 
Gozo Subsidised Commercial Vehicle Category 3  70 
Gozo Subsidised Commercial Vehicle Category 4  90 
Gozo Subsidised Commercial Vehicle Category 5  100 
Gozo Subsidised Commercial Vehicle Category 6  110 
Gozo Subsidised Commercial Vehicle Category 7  120 
The Corporation shall establish a capping of one [1] trip per day for each commercial vehicle owned 
by or leased to the beneficiary.  
 
1 The Corporation may request further information to confirm that the driver is an employee of the undertaking.  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  [b] Subcontracted Haulage Expenses  
Subcontracted haulage expenses [including ferry costs] are eligible for a refund of 100% of the 
invoiced value excluding VAT.  
Invoices shall be deemed as eligible by the Corporation if the service provided is related to haulage 
and must be accompanied by a bill of lading or a clear description of the items transported.   
[c] Courier Services  
Subcontracted Courier services are eligible for a refund of 70% of the invoiced value excluding VAT.  
Courier services shall be deemed as eligible if the invoice provided clearly indicates the points of 
collection and drop off and as long as one of these l ocations is in Malta and the other in Gozo.  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
Gozo based undertakings engaged in manufacturing (NACE rev. 2.0 Section C) and in possession of 
an entitlement certificate confirming that the Corporation is satisfied that  all or a significant part of 
the manufacturing activity is being carried out in Gozo.  
To be eligible for aid through this incentive, undertakings shall be:  
✓ duly incorporated under the Companies Act, Chapter 386 of the Laws of Malta being a 
partnership en nom collectif , en commandite  or a limited liability company;  
or  
✓ any body of persons constituted, incorporated or registered outside Malta, and of a nature 
similar to the above;  
or  
✓ be duly registered as a Cooperative under the Cooperatives Societies Ac t, Chapter 442 of 
the Laws of Malta.  
Undertakings shall be considered as ineligible if they are:  
a) defaulting on VAT, Income Tax, or Social Security payments ; 
b) engaged in activities specifically excluded under the de minimis  State Aid Regulations as outlined 
in Section 6 of the Incentive Guidelines.  
The Corporation shall consider as eligible only invoices/receipts which include:  
i. the name and details of the suppl ier;  
ii. date of supply of each service ; 
iii. the point for where the item/package was collected ; 
iv. the point where the item/package was delivered ; 
v. a clear description of the item/package delivered ; 
vi. the VAT numbers of both the suppliers and applicant.  
If an invoice covers multiple services, these should be listed for each transaction.  
7. Amount of the subsidy  
2021 - EUR 372,270.50  
2022 - EUR 352,963.44  
8. Duration of the subsidy  
This aid scheme is applicable to transportation costs between Malta and Gozo incurred between 
1st January 2021 and 31st December 2022. Aid will be granted by 31st December 2023.  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of the subsidy  
There are no effects on international trade.  
10  MICRO INVEST  
1. Title of the subsidy  
Micro Invest . 
2. Period covered by the notification  
Micro Invest was updated on 1st March 2021 and has an expiry date of 31st December 2023.  
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
Micro Invest encourages undertakings [including start -ups, Family Businesses and self -employed] 
to invest in their business, so as to innovate, expand and develop their operations.  Undertakings 
benefiting from this measure will be supported through a tax credit calculated as a percentage of 
eligible expenditure an d wages costs.  
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
The Micro Investment Regulations as Subsidiary Legislation 463.09 [Malta Enterprise Act, 
Chapter  463 of the Laws of Malta ] form the national legal basis of this aid scheme.  
https://legislation.mt/eli/sl/463.9/eng/pdf  
The Incentive Guidelines for the aid scheme Micro Invest are accessible on the following link:  
https://www.maltaenterprise.com/support/micro -invest  
5. Form of the subsidy  
Aid awarded under this support measure is in the form of a tax relief [tax credit] however 
during  2021, the scheme was modified to disburse part of the tax credit in the form of a cash grant 
for those applications received in 2020. This was primarily carried out to address the significant 
distortions in the economy caused by unfo reseen events.  
Eligible costs must be incurred by 31st December 2022.  
The following are the eligible costs which can be covered by the scheme : 
INCREASE IN WAGE COSTS  
Eligible undertakings may apply for a tax credit on an increase in wage costs that exceed 3%, 
calculated by deducting from wage costs incurred in the relevant fiscal year, the highest annual 
wage cost incurred in the preceding two (2) fiscal years.   
In the case of an undertaking that has taken over the operation of another undertaking, t he wage 
costs of the preceding two (2) fiscal years of the undertaking that was taken over have to be 
considered.  In case of undertakings that have merged with other undertakings, the data considered 
for the preceding two (2) fiscal years should be the con solidated wage cost totals of the merged 
undertakings.  
The data used to calculate the eligible wage costs shall be the gross emoluments (excluding fringe 
benefits and share options) as declared in the annual returns submitted to the Revenue department 
by the undertaking.  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  FURBISHING AND REFURBISHING OF BUSINESS PREMISES  
Costs incurred for services rendered for the furbishing, refurbishing and upgrading of business 
premises by third parties, including costs of materials and other items required for furbishin g, 
refurbishing and upgrading of the business premises that are endorsed as to have been utilised by 
the third party providing the services in the works carried out.   
When furbishing and refurbishing works are carried out by the applicant or the applicant 's 
employees, the Corporation shall accept the costs incurred for the purchase of materials if 
photographic evidence of the works is provided.  
The furbishing and refurbishing property intended for short term lets is only considered when the 
property is adeq uately licensed at the time of application.   
With regards to applications received from 2022 (costs incurred in 2021), the Corporation shall only 
support costs incurred for the furbishing, refurbishing and upgrading of business premises covered 
by one of t he following Planning Authority licences:  
• CLASS 2A – Residential Institution - Residence for people in need of care on a temporary or 
permanent basis, such as a hospital or nursing home.  
• CLASS 2B – Non-residential institution, such as a museum, library o r public hall.  
• CLASS 2C – Educational institution - school, nursery, day centre, etc.  
• CLASS 3A – Guest Houses, Palazzini, Boutique Tourism  
• CLASS 3B – Hotels  
• CLASS 3C – Assembly and Leisure  
• CLASS 4A – Financial, Professional and Other Offices  
• CLASS 4B – Retail  
• CLASS 4C – Food and Drink Establishments where no cooking is allowed  
• CLASS 4D – Food and Drink Establishments where cooking is allowed  
• CLASS 5A – Light Industry  
• CLASS 5B – General Industry  
• CLASS 5C – Specialised Industry  
With regards to applications received from 2022 (costs incurred in 2021), the Corporation shall only 
support costs for the refurbishment of short -term accommodation facilities. These may only be 
claimed if a valid Malta Tourism Authority permit covering th e premises is provided with the request 
for support is submitted.  
The services must be provided by third parties and costs of materials and other items required for 
furbishing, refurbishing and upgrading of the business premises must be included within th e 
provision of the service.  
INVESTMENT COSTS  
Eligible undertakings may apply for investments in:  
a. acquiring new (or first time used in Malta) machinery, technology, apparatus and 
instruments ; 
b. systems intended to produce alternative energy ; 
c. tangible and inta ngible assets required for digitisation of the business operation.  Eligible 
costs may include:  
i. computer hardware ;  
ii. packaged software solutions ;  
iii. development costs for new software systems, websites and digital applications.  In 
these cases, the applicant must submit the agreement with the supplier specifying 
the parameters and functionality of the systems/website/application being 
developed.  Maintenance costs are not eligible ; 
iv. costs incurred in relation to the applicant 's websites developments, u pdates and 
enhancement. In these cases, the applicant must submit documentation specifying 
the additional functionality being acquired indicating the cost of such development.   G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  MOTOR VEHICLES COSTS  
As from 2021 (for costs incurred in 2020), eligible undert akings may claim the cost incurred for the 
purchase of any Commercial Vehicle (as defined in Section 2 of the Incentive Guidelines) procured 
as new or first time registered in Malta having a European Emission Standard rating of at least 
Euro 5. An eligible  undertaking that has not claimed the cost of a vehicle in 2019 and 2020, may 
in 2021 still claim the cost incurred for the purchase of one (1) Commercial Vehicle (as defined in 
Section 2 of the Incentive Guidelines) which must be new or first time registe red in Malta even if 
such vehicle does not comply with the Euro 5 Standard.  
As from 2022 (for costs incurred in 2021) operators licenced to provide passenger transport services 
holding a licence (Taxi Driver Permit and Tag) from Transport Malta may claim in any rolling 
three-year period the costs incurred for the purchase of a (one) plug -in hybrid or electric passenger 
vehicle purchased for the provision of passenger transport services.  
With regards to applications received in 2023 (for costs incurred in 2022) the maximum sup port for 
the procurement of motor vehicles powered by a fossil fuel engine shall be capped at 30% 
irrespective of the aid intensities set in section 4.1. This limitation shall not apply to plug -in hybrid 
and electric vehicles.  
CERTIFICATION COSTS  
As for applications received in 2022 (for costs incurred in 2021), eligible undertakings may claim the 
cost incurred for attaining certifications relevant to their business.  Eligible costs shall consist of 
business advisory provided by unrelated parties and the a ctual certification costs.  The certifications 
shall result in the attainment or the extension (if applicable) of any of the following certifications:  
i. CE Markings  
ii. ISO 9001 Quality Management Systems  
iii. ISO 14001 Environmental Management System  
iv. ISO 50001 Energ y Management  
v. ISO 22000 Food Safety Management  
vi. HACCP  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
Assistance awarded under this aid scheme will encourage undertakings to invest in their economic 
activities so that they may innovate, expand, implement compliance directives or develop their 
operations. Such undertakings may include self -employed persons.  
Undertakings will be supported through a tax credit representing a percentage of the eligible 
expenditure and wage costs.  
Malta Enterprise will approve a tax credi t equivalent to 45% of eligible expenditure.  An additional 
bonus of 20% [that is a total of 65% tax credit] applies to undertakings operating from Gozo.  
For costs incurred in 2020 by start -up undertakings operating from Gozo, the applicable aid intensity 
shall be increased by a further 15% to 80%.  
The maximum eligible tax credits per single undertaking shall be capped at EUR 50,000 over any 
period of three [3] consecutive fiscal years, starting from eligible expenses incurred and paid for 
during the year pr eceding the year in which the claim is submitted.   
This capping specified above shall be increased by EUR 20,000 [to a total of EUR 70,000] for 
undertakings:  
a) operating from Gozo;  
b) registered as a Family Business; and  
c) having more than 50% of the ownership attributed to female persons.  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  In case of partnerships the eligible amount will be split according to ownership.  Hence, as an 
example, in case of a partnership where ownership is split equally between two persons, 
two Incentive Entitlement Certificates, each equivalent to 50% of the approved tax credits will be 
issued to the persons forming the partnership.  
Legal persons forming part of multiple partnerships and that may also be carrying out other activities 
through sel f-employment may receive support through the different undertakings in which they are 
active but may not benefit from a tax credit which exceeds the relevant maximum capping as 
established above.  
Furthermore, the total amount of de minimis  aid granted to a  single undertaking shall not exceed 
the applicable threshold established in the de minimis  Regulation (as provided in section 6 of the 
Guidelines). This implies that the amount of aid requested under this scheme may need to be 
adjusted to adhere to the li mits imposed by the de minimis  Regulation.  
7. Amount of the subsidy  
2021 – EUR 40,918,711.48  
2022 – EUR 36,459,255.16  
8. Duration of the subsidy  
The scheme has been updated on 1st March, 2021 and will expire on 31st December, 2023.  
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of the subsidy  
There are no effects on international trade.  
11  RENT SUBSIDY SCHEME  
1. Title of the subsidy  
Rent Subsidy 2020 .  
2. Period covered by the notification  
The period covered by this notification starts from th e 1st February 2020. Subsequently scheme was 
amended in November 2022 and prolonged until the 31st December 2023.  
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
The main objective of the Rent Subsidy 2020 Scheme is to support  undertakings engaged in an 
eligible activity that require industrial space as a temporary, or permanent, solution to:  
• commence a new business activity ; 
• implement growth plans ; 
• handle an increase in orders ; 
• optimise supply chains; and/or ; 
• carry out process innovations required to increase efficiency . 
Applicants must be small and medium sized and must be engaged in:  
• manufacturing  
• maintenance and repairs of Motor Vehicles  
• repair of Machinery & Equipment  
• industrial activities related to the above; and  
• business activity requiring temporary facilities for the storage of goods and materials to 
optimise supply chains and/or mitigate for fluctuations in supply and fluctuations in costs.  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
This Incentive is administered by Malta Enterprise Corporation.  
The Rent Subsidy Regulations 2020 as Subsidiary Legislation 463.33 [Malta Enterprise Act, 
Chapter  463 of the Laws of Malta ] provide the legal basis of this incentive . 
https://legislation.mt/eli/sl/463.33/eng  
The Incentive Guidelines for the Rent Subsidy 2020  Scheme are  accessible on the following link : 
Rent Subsidy 2020 | Malta Enterprise   
5. Form of the subsidy  
The aid shall be granted in the form of a cash grant.  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
This incentive is intended to support small undertakings engaged in manufacturing activities that 
requir e industrial space as a temporary, or permanent, solution to:  
• commence a new business activity ; 
• implement growth plans ; 
• handle an increase in orders ; 
• optimise supply chains; and/or  
• carry out process innovations required to increase efficiency . 
The total aid which may be granted to a single undertaking over a twelve -month period will be 
capped at EUR 25,000. The support may be approved for a period of three (3) consecutive years, 
thus the maximum aid per single undertaking may not exceed seventy -five thousand euro s 
(EUR 75,000).  
7. Amount of the subsidy  
2021– EUR 377,742.00  
2022 – EUR 311,250.00  
8. Duration of the subsidy  
The scheme has an expiry date until 31st December 2023.   
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of t he subsidy  
There are no effects on international trade.  
12  RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT 2020  
1. Title of the subsidy  
Research and Development 2020 . 
2. Period covered by the notification  
The period covered by this notification starts from the 1st March, 2020 until 31st December, 2023.  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
The aim of this incentive is to:  
[a] assist undertakings that carry out Industrial Research or Experimental Development required 
for acquisition of knowledge leading to the development of innovative products and 
solutions ; 
[b] encourage cooperation between firms by providing additional assistance for collaborative 
Industrial Research and Experimental Development projects, which may include Eureka 
endorsed projects and accepted under the Eurosta rs framework of the European 
Commission.  
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
This Incentive is administered by Malta Enterprise Corporation.  
The Research and Development Regulations 2020, as Subsidiary Legislation 463.35  [Malta 
Enterprise Act, Chapte r 463 of the Laws of Malta ] as amended by L.N. 433 of 2020 Regulations 
provide the legal basis of this incentive . 
https://legislation.mt/eli/sl/463.35/eng/pdf  
https://legislation.mt/eli/ln/2020/433/eng/pdf  
The Incentive Guidelines for the Research and Development 2020  are accessible  on the following 
link: Research and Development 2020 | Malta Enterprise  
5. Form of the subsidy  
Approved projects will mainly be supported t hrough a tax credit but the Corporation may consider 
approving support as a cash grant if funds are available.  Cash grants are awarded at the sole 
discretion of the Corporation.  
If the project is predominantly industrial research the maximum support may no t exceed 
EUR 20 million per undertaking, per project; that is the case where more than half of the eligible 
costs of the project are incurred through activities which fall within the category of industrial research 
or within the categories of industrial re search and fundamental research taken together.  
If the project is predominantly experimental development the maximum support may not exceed 
EUR 15 million per undertaking, per project; that is the case where more than half of the eligible 
costs of the proj ect are incurred through activities which fall within the category of experimental 
development.  
The aid to be provided to each undertaking will be set as a fixed amount related to the eligible 
project costs. The maximum amount of aid for each undertaking w ill vary according to the allowable 
intensities.  
MAXIMUM APPLICABLE AID INTENSITIES.  
Category of Research and 
Development  Projects  Small 
Undertaking  Medium 
Undertaking  Large 
Undertaking  
Experimental Development Projects  45% 35% 25% 
Industrial Research Projects  70% 60% 50% 
A project may receive an additional 15% of eligible costs over the above percentages, up to a 
maximum aid intensity of 80% of eligible costs, if one of the following conditions is fulfilled:  
a. the project involves effective collaboration as outlined in the Guidelines;  
b. the results of the project are widely disseminated through conferences, publication, open 
access repositories, or free or open source software within one year of completion of the 
project and such intention is declared at application stage.  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  QUALIFYING EXPENDITURE  
The following costs are considered as eligible as long as they are incurred in relation to an approved 
Industrial Research or Experimental Development project: 
PERSONNEL COSTS  
Wages of researchers, technical personnel and support staff required for the implementation of the 
research project to the extent and for the duration that they are directly engaged on the approved 
research project.  
a) Eligible personnel costs shall be limited to the actual salary paid to the employee during the 
relevant period.  Any other payment to an employee such as bonuses, allowances, overtime, 
per diem and insurance shall not be considered eligible.  
b) All employees in respect of whom costs are claimed must be registered with Jobsplus and 
covered by a valid contract of employment in terms of the national legislation on 
employment.   
c) Personnel costs are calculated by multiplying the time the employee was directly engaged 
on the approved research project with  the hourly salary.  The hourly salary of a ful l time 
employee shall be established by dividing the annual salary by 1 ,760 hours.  
d) Eligible wage costs of supporting staff shall be capped at 10% of the total personnel costs.  
Timesheets [or an information system] must be utilised to measure the time an e mployee dedicates 
to the project and the tasks carried out during the relevant period.   
INSTRUMENTS AND EQUIPMENT  
Costs of instruments and equipment shall be considered as eligible to the extent and for the period 
used for the project. Where such instrume nts and equipment are not used for their full life for the 
project, only the depreciation costs corresponding to the life of the project, as calculated on the 
basis of generally accepted accounting principles are considered as eligible.  (The Corporation sh all 
adopt the provision of Subsidiary Legislation 123.01 to the Income Tax Act, Deduction for Wear and 
Tear of Plant and Machinery Rules  to established depreciation period and costs on Instruments and 
equipment claimed.)  
CONTRACTUAL RESEARCH, TECHNICAL KNO WLEDGE AND PATENTS  
Costs of contractual research, technical knowledge and patents bought or licensed from outside 
sources at arm 's length conditions, as well as costs of consultancy and equivalent services used 
exclusively for the research activity.  
Costs of consultancy and equivalent services must be rendered by:  
1. experts in the relevant field of research that have successfully completed doctoral training;  
2. universities;  
3. research and knowledge -dissemination organisation; or  
4. technical laboratories or other similar infrastructures.  
OTHER OPERATING EXPENSES  
Additional overheads and other operating expenses, including costs of materials, supplies and similar 
products, incurred directly as a result of the project.  
When operating expenditure  is not fully utilised for the funded project the beneficiary must 
demonstrate how such costs were apportioned to determine the expenditure related to the project.  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
Projects must seek to address a technological challe nge through a structured approach within an 
established time frame, which should not exceed thirty -six (36) months in project duration.  This 
time frame should be established when the request for support is submitted to the Corporation.   G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  Through this measur e, only projects that commenced on or after 1st March, 2020 may be supported.  
When cash is required as support for the project, the applicant must commit not to commence the 
project prior to the formal approval of the aid from the Corporation.  In requestin g fiscal (tax credits) 
support the applicant may submit an application within 6 months of commencement of the project.  
COLLABORATIVE R&D PROJECTS  
A collaborative R&D project must involve effective collaboration between at least two independent 
undertaking s or between an undertaking and one or more Research and Knowledge -Dissemination 
Organisations as defined below.  
A project is considered to involve effective collaboration between at least two undertakings that are 
independent of each other if all the foll owing conditions are fulfilled:  
a) the project must:  
i. involve collaboration with at least one (1) SME;  
or 
ii. be cross -border, that is, the research and development activities are carried out in 
at least two (2) different European Union Member States or in a Member State and 
a Contracting Party of the EEA Agreement ;  
b) no single undertaking must bear more than 70% of the eligible costs of the collaboration 
project.  
COLLABORATION BETWEEN AN UNDERTAKING AND A RESEARCH ORGANISATION:  
A project is also considered t o involve effective collaboration between an undertaking and one or 
more research and knowledge -dissemination organisation if all the following conditions are fulfilled:  
a) the research and knowledge -dissemination organisations participating in the project mu st 
bear at least 10% of the eligible project costs;  
b) the research and knowledge -dissemination organisations participating in the project shall 
have the right to publish their own research results.  
7. Amount of the subsidy  
2022 – EUR 1,209,606.00  
2021 – EUR 729,802.80  
8. Duration of the subsidy  
This support measure will expire on 31st December, 2023.  
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of the subsidy  
There are no effects on international trade.  
13  START -UP FINANCE 2020  
1. Title o f the subsidy  
Start-Up Finance 2020 . 
2. Period covered by the notification  
The period covered by this notification starts from the 1st January 2020 until 31st December, 2022.  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
The main objective of the support measure is to provide the necessary support to small start -up 
undertakings that exhibit a viable business concept and commits itself to expand and further develop 
their economic activity.  
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
This Incentive is administered by Malta Enterprise Corporation.  
The Start -Up Finance Regulations 2020, as Subsidiary Legislation 463.32  [Malta Enterprise Act, 
Chapter 463 of the Laws of Malta ] as amended by L.N. 296 of 2020 provide the legal basis of this 
incentive . https://legislation.mt/eli/sl/463.32/eng  
The Incentive Guidelines for the Start-Up Finance  2020 are  accessible  on the following link :  
Start-up Finance 2020 | Malta Enterprise  
5. Form of the subsidy  
Undertakings may benefit from assistance in the form of a repayable assi stance.  
Malta Enterprise shall support Small Start -up Undertakings at various stages in their development 
process based on the milestones achieved and their vision for growth.  Start-ups receiving support 
should demonstrate innovative approaches of doing b usiness and a vision to expand beyond the 
Maltese market.   
In order for a start -up undertaking to be considered for support, the applicant shall be required to 
submit the full application form within sixty [60] months from the start -up date.  Beneficiary may 
reapply for additional support up to three [3] times, provided that at the time of granting of each 
aid, the beneficiary complies with the eligibility conditions in Articles 22 and 8 of the General Block 
Exemption Regulation [See Section 6 State Aid Rules and Obligations].  The applicant will be required 
to provide a full business plan and may be required to deliver a presentation to the Corporation 
explaining the proposed operation and justifying the viability of the venture.   
The aid shall be granted in  the form of a repayable advance not exceeding four hundred 
thousand  euros [EUR 400,000] which may be increased to eight hundred thousand euro s 
[EUR 800,000] in the case of an innovative enterprise.  
ACCELERATOR GRANT  
Small Start -ups may be su pported to participate in a Start -up Accelerator Programme.  Through this 
one time grant the Corporation may provide funding as subsistence to the core group of persons 
engaged in the development of the start -up business, following enrolment in the Start -up Accelerator 
Programme.  This support shall be available for the duration of the Accelerator Programme and may 
not cover preparation costs or any other costs incurred prior to the commencement of the 
Programme.  
Participants in a Start -up Accelerator Program  recognised by the Corporation may be approved one 
hundred euro s [EUR 100] per week per team member who is not resident in the country where the 
programme is taking place, as a subsistence grant for duration of the programme. This funding will 
be limited t o five [5] team members who must be registered as full time employees of the Start -up 
with Jobsplus.  The supported period shall not exceed twenty -four [24] weeks in total, and should 
the start -up be also benefiting from a seed grant, any disbursement due d uring this period shall be 
forfeited.  
SUPPORT AS CO -INVESTMENT IN PAYROLL COSTS  
The Corporation may provide a repayable advance which shall be disbursed to finance up to 75% of 
the wage costs of persons employed on a full time contract with the Start-up Undertaking.   G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  SUPPORT AS CO -INVESTMENT LINKED TO PRIVATE EQUITY  
The Corporation may provide a repayable advance equivalent to 50% of the increase in share capital 
invested in Small Start -up Undertakings by:  
❖ unrelated parties ; 
❖ universities or non -profit research centres in spin -offs that qualify as Small Start -up 
Under takings ;  
❖ linked enterprises [as long as the beneficiary still qualifies as Small Start -up Undertakings], 
if the linked enterprise can demonstrate that it received equity investments for the 
development of the start -up initiative from private institution i nvestors [business angels, 
venture funds, crowdfunding platforms and similar investors].  
The increase in share capital must occur after the approval of the Corporation and within a 
twelve  [12] month period thereon.  [The Corporation will consider any incre ases effected within the 
twelve [12] month period in tranches and by different investors].  
Any repayable advance linked to equity may, in accordance to the approval of the Corporation, be 
disbursed in tranches linked to milestones established in the Busine ss Plan submitted by the Small 
Start-up Undertaking.   
SUPPORT AS WORKING CAPITAL  
The Corporation may provide a repayable advance of up to EUR 200,000 to the Small Start -up 
Undertakings that propose a viable business which may be increased to up to EUR 400,000 if the 
Start-up is an Innovative Enterprise.   
This repayable advance may, in accordance to the approval of the Corporation, be disbursed in 
tranches linked to milestones established in the Business Plan submitted by the Small Start -up 
Undertaking.  
SUPPORT FOR THE PROCUREMENT OF TANGIBLE AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS  
The Corporation may award a repayable advance to finance up to 75% of the cost required to procure 
machinery, equipment and intangible assets to carry out the start -up project.  
The machinery and/or equipment purchased must be new or used in Malta for the first time by the 
beneficiary.  
Support on intangible assets shall be limited to the procurement of patents, licences, know -how or 
other intellectual property from third parties unrelated to the buyer at market conditions.  Such 
assets must be amortizable.  
The eligible costs incurred on intangible assets shall be limited to 50% of the total investment.  
SUPPORT LINKED TO CROWDFUNDING  
The Corporation may provide a repayable advance of up to 50% of the financing of a project [or 
equity increase] to be funded t hrough a crowd -funding campaign.   
The funding may not exceed the amount requested through the crowdfunding campaign. The 
beneficiary must indicate on the crowdfunding platform page that the project has received support 
by the Corporation.  
Funds will only be made available if the crowdfunding campaign is successful.  In approving this 
support, the Corporation may specify that should the beneficiary succeed in raising a higher amount 
than what has been requested on the crowdfunding platform, the difference ma y be deducted from 
the repayable assistance.  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
Start-up undertakings shall be considered as eligible if they are, or shall be engaged in one [1] or 
more of the following activities: 
✓ Manufacturing;  
✓ Software development ; 
✓ Industrial services analogous to manufacturing;  
✓ Health, Biotechnology, Pharmaceuticals and Life Sciences;  
✓ Other innovative economic activities which are enabled through knowledge and technology 
providing services or products which are currently not readily available in the relevant 
market or which shall be provided through a process which is novel.   
The Corporation shall only consider as eligible projects that meet at least two of the following criteria: 
✓ propose products and/or services that have the  potential to generate income from various 
geographical markets;  
✓ produce products and/or services which are new or substantially improved compared to 
complementary products on the market;  
✓ utilise processes which are new or substantially improved compared t o those adopted in 
current complementary activities.  
The Corporation shall impose an annual premium of two percent [2%] over the European Central 
Bank's [ECB] base rate as set on the beginning of the year in review.  The premium shall be increased 
to three percent [3%] over the European Central Bank 's [ECB] base rate in respect of any funds 
awarded under the provisions of section 4.3(A) [Support as Working Capital].  If ECB rate is below 
negative one percent [ -1%], the premium shall be fixed at one perc ent [1%]. The premium shall be 
calculated at the end of each calendar year by taking into consideration the amounts owed at the 
end of each month.  If the premium is not paid within eight [8] weeks from being communicated to 
the Beneficiary, it shall be inc luded to the principle amount advanced to the Beneficiary.  
Beneficiary shall enter into an agreement to repay any funds advanced and shall be required to pay 
a minimum of ten percent [10%] of pre -tax profits per annum until the disbursed funds are repaid.  
Yet, if the ten percent [10%] of pre -tax profits exceeded fifteen percent [15%] of the total amount 
due to the Corporation, the minimum amount payable shall be reduced to fifteen percent [15%].  
MAXIMUM APPLICABLE AID INTENSITIES  
The total maximum support that start -up undertakings may be assisted with per undertaking under 
any Start -up Scheme, must not exceed the amounts laid down in Article 22 of the Commission 
Regulation.  
7. Amount of the subsidy  
2021 – EUR 12,027,321.00  
8. Duration of the subsidy  
This support measure expired on 31st December 2022.   
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of the subsidy   
There are no effects on international trade.  
14  START -UP FINANCE 2020 (UPDATED SCHEME)  
1. Title of the subsidy  
Start-Up Finance 2020.  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  2. Period covered by the notification  
The period covered by this notification starts from the 1st December 2022. The scheme was updated 
on 1st December 2022 to reflect some changes in the eligibility criteria and was prolonged to 
December 2023.   
3. Policy  objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
The support measure is intended to support small start -up undertakings that demonstrate a viable 
business concept and exhibit commitment to expand and further develop their economic activity.  
4. Background and authorit y for the subsidy  
This Incentive is administered by Malta Enterprise Corporation.  
The Start -Up Finance Regulations 2020, as Subsidiary Legislation 463.32  [Malta Enterprise Act, 
Chapter 463 of the Laws of Malta ] as amended by L.N. 296 of 2020 provide the legal basis of this 
incentive . https://legislation.mt/eli/sl/463.32/eng  
The Incentive Guidelines for the Start-Up Finance  2020 are  accessible  on the following link :  
Start-up Finance 2020 | Malta Enterprise  
5. Form of the subsidy  
Undertakings may benefit from assistance in the form of a repayable assistance.  
Start-up undertakings shall be considered as eligible if they are, or shall be engaged in one [1] or 
more of the following activities: 
• Manufacturing;  
• Software development;  
• Industrial services analogous to manufacturing;  
• Health, Biotechnology, Pharmaceuticals and Life Sciences;  
• Other innovative economic activities which are enabled through knowledge and technology 
providing services or products which are currently not readily av ailable in the relevant 
market or which shall be provided through a process which is novel.   
The Corporation shall only consider as eligible projects that meet at least two of the following criteria: 
• propose products and/or services that have the potential  to generate income from various 
geographical markets;  
• produce products and/or services which are new or substantially improved compared to 
complementary products on the market;  
• utilise processes which are new or substantially improved compared to those adopted in 
current complementary activities.  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
The aid shall be granted in the form of a repayable advance not exceeding four hundred 
thousan d euros [EUR 400,000] which may be increased to eight hundred thousand euro s 
[EUR 800,000] in the case of an innovative enterprise.  
In order to be eligible for assistance, the beneficiary must be a limited liability Company (or similar 
organisation having limited liability) established within the European Union with an operating base 
in Malta.  
The support will be either linked to:  
1- co-investment linked to pay roll costs; or  
2- co-investment linked to private equity and crowdfunding; or  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  3- working capital; or  
4- the procurement of tangible and intangible assets.  
7. Amount of the subsidy  
2022 - EUR 6,300,000.00  
8. Duration of the subsidy  
The scheme will expire on 31st December 2023.  
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of the subsidy  
There are no effects on international trade.  
15  SMART AND SUSTAINABLE  INVESTMENT GRANT  
1. Title of the subsidy  
Smart and Sustainable Investment Grant Scheme . 
2. Period covered by the notification  
The period covered by this notification starts from the 1st December 2022 and will terminate on 
31st December 2023.  
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
The scheme has been designed to support the undertaking of investments that lead to more 
sustainable and digitalised processes leading to the en hancement of competitiveness of the 
enterprises through the optimisation of the use of resources in their activities.  
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
This Incentive is administered by Malta Enterprise Corporation.  
The Smart and Sustainable Invest ment Grant Regulations (S.L.463.45 ) forms the legal basis for 
these Incentive Guidelines. https://legislation.mt/eli/sl/463.45/eng   
The Incentive Guidelines for Smart and Sustainable Investment Grant scheme are accessible on the 
following link:  Smart & Sustainable Investment Grant | Malta Ent erprise  
5. Form of the subsidy  
Assistance under the Smart and Sustainable Investment Grant can be awarded in the form of a cash 
grant and tax credit if the project meets the established criteria, as defined in the Incentive  
Guidelines.  
The scheme supports investments and modifications in plant, machinery, equipment and 
technologies that lead to a quantifiable reduction in CO 2 emissions.  
Eligible investments may also include specialised technical services and procurement of technologies 
that enable the undertaking to measure parameters linked to the undertaking 's carbon footprint. 
Such investments should have the scope of identifying actions to reduce carbon footprint.  Aid for 
these cost items must be incorpora ted within an eligible sustainability project and shall be capped 
at 20% of the total amount approved.  
Any technical service must be provided by unrelated parties and must be covered by a contractual 
agreement of which only the initial twelve (12) months s hall be eligible.  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  Any costs incurred before the approval by the Corporation will not be considered as eligible. 
Supported investments must be implemented within twelve (12) months from the date when funding 
is approved, and the beneficiary must commit to m aintain the investment for a minimum of 
three (3) years.  
The maximum grant that can be awarded to support an eligible investment shall cover 50% of the 
eligible expenditure up to a maximum grant of EUR 100,000 per project. Applications will be 
considered o n a case -by-case basis and the level of funding will be determined following an 
assessment of the proposed investment and implementation plan.   
Furthermore, a Tax Credit of up to EUR 40,000 per project may be awarded as an additional 10% 
(to 60%) if the pr oject meets one of the below criteria and 20% (to 70%) if the project meets any 
two of the below criteria:  
• the project results in new investment (including expansion of existing investments) in Gozo;  
• the project is carried out by an undertaking which has b een established for less than 
three (3) years.  (This shall be calculated from the date of registration);  
• the project is supported by an independent energy audit conducted by a qualified energy 
auditor or engineer.  
6. Amount of the subsidy  
2021 – NIL  
2022 – EUR 223,206.00  
7. Duration of the subsidy  
This support measure became effective on the 1st December 2022 and has an expiry date on 
31st December, 2023.   
8. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of the subsidy  
There are  no effects on international trade.  
16  KICK START 2021  
1. Title of the subsidy  
Kick Start 2021 .  
2. Period covered by the notification  
The period covered by this notification starts from the 1st November 2021 until 31st December, 2023.  
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
The main objective is to help startups to finance their participation in accelerator programmes 
recognized by Malta Enterprise.  
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
This is an administrative scheme which has been designed  in line with de minimis  aid regulation.  
5. Form of the subsidy  
Aid under this Support Measure will be provided in a form of a cash grant.  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
Start-ups eligible for assistance must be (or plan to be) active in one of the following sectors:  
a) Manufacturing;  
b) Software Development;  
c) Industrial Services analogous to manufacturing;  
d) Health, Biotechnology, Pharmaceuticals and Life Sciences;  
e) Other innovative economic activities which are enabled through knowledge and technology 
providing services or products which are currently not readily available in the relevant 
market or which shall be provided through a process which is novel.  
7. Amount of the subsidy  
2021 – NIL 
2022 – EUR 650,000.00  
8. Duration of the subsidy  
This support measure will expire on 31st December, 2023.  
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of the subsidy  
There are no effects on international trade.  
17  INVESTMENT AID FOR ENERGY EFFICIENCY PROJECTS  
1. Title of the subsidy  
Investment Aid for En ergy Efficiency Projects . 
2. Period covered by the notification  
The period covered by this notification starts from 1st September 2020 until 31st December 2023.  
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
The scheme has the objective to assist undertakings with a high energy consumption to invest in 
equipment that would achieve a higher energy efficiency.  
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
This Incentive is administered by Malta Enterprise Corporatio n. 
The Investment Aid for Energy Efficiency Projects Regulations, as Subsidiary Legislation 463.24  
[Malta Enterprise Act, Chapter 463 of the Laws of Malta ] provides the legal basis of this incentive . 
https://legislation.mt/eli/sl/463.24/eng/pdf  
The Incentive Guidelines for the Investment Aid for Energy Efficiency Projects  are accessible on the 
following link : Investment Aid for Energy Efficiency Projects | Malta Enterprise  
5. Form of the subsidy  
The aid shall be granted in a form of a cash grant or a tax credit (or a combination of both).  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  On the basis of available funds, expected results and other technical and financial considerations, 
the Corporation, in collaboration with the Agency may award support in the form of a cash grant if 
the annual energy  savings in kilo watt hours to be achieved exceed:  
=( 30%  𝑜𝑓 𝑒𝑙𝑖𝑔𝑖𝑏𝑙𝑒  𝑐𝑜𝑠𝑡 )
𝑅𝑎𝑡𝑒  𝑝𝑒𝑟 𝑢𝑛𝑖𝑡 ∗𝑒𝑥𝑝𝑒𝑐𝑡𝑒𝑑  𝑙𝑖𝑓𝑒𝑡𝑖𝑚𝑒 
Where:  
Rate per unit  is equal to 0.07 EUR/KWhr; and Expected lifetime is equal to 7 years.  
Thus a project with an eligible cost of EUR 10,000 would need to achieve savings of more than 
6,122  kwh per annum.  
Applications were the annual energy savings does not exceed the resultant of the above equation 
will still be eligible for tax credits for t he eligible cost.  
QUALIFYING EXPENDITURE:  
The Corporation may support investments in tangible assets procured as part of a project carried 
out by an eligible undertaking to achieve a higher level of energy efficiency.  The project must be 
supported either b y an energy audit or a specific proposal assessment prepared by a certified energy 
auditor or a warranted engineer who would clearly describe and identify the proposed project and 
its expected benefits.  
Only costs directly linked to the achievement of a hi gher level of energy efficiently shall be considered 
eligible.  
The eligible costs shall be the extra investment costs necessary to achieve the higher level of energy 
efficiency. They shall be determined as follows:  
(a) where the costs of investing in energy e fficiency can be identified in the total investment 
cost as a separate investment, this energy efficiency -related cost shall constitute the eligible 
costs;  
(b) in all other cases, the costs of investing in energy efficiency are identified by reference to a 
similar, less energy efficient investment that would have been credibly carried out without 
the aid. The difference between the costs of both investments identifies the energy 
efficiency -related cost and constitutes the eligible costs. The costs not directly  linked to the 
achievement of a higher level of energy efficiency shall not be eligible.  
Aid shall not be granted where investment and/or improvements are undertaken to comply with 
Union standards already adopted, even if they are not yet in force.  
Aid shall not be granted to investment in new buildings or extensions of new buildings.   
Costs incurred from third parties related directly to the procurement and installation of an eligible 
investment shall be considered as part of the investment if such transaction is carried out at arm 's 
length.   
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
Projects must have the aim of improving energy efficiency and may include:  
a) investment in substitution or upgrading of equipment and installations to reduce energy 
consump tion; 
b) renovation or upgrading of equipment of existing installation for heating (or cooling) 
systems;  
c) the improvement of energy efficiency of existing illumination systems.  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  For a project to be considered eligible:  
a) the project must entail an investment of  at least ten thousand Euro s (EUR 10,000) that is 
directly related to achieving energy savings;  
and 
b) provide a corroborated justification from a competent person that the resultant estimated 
energy saving to be achieved as a result of implementing the proposed investment will be 
of at least 10%.  
Investments related to the generation of electricity such as PV installations are not eligible.  
APPLICABLE AID INTENSITIES:  
The total aid may not exceed the maximum aid intensity allowable in re lation to the size of the 
undertaking receiving the support as established in the table below:  
Type of Undertaking  % 
Small  50 
Medium  40 
Large  30 
In line with Article 4 of COMMISSION REGULATION (EU) No . 651/2014 of 17 June 2014 declaring 
certain categories of aid compatible with the internal market in application of Articles 107 and 108 
of the Treaty, the capping for investment Aid for environmental protection is EUR 15 million per 
undertaking per invest ment project.  
7. Amount of the subsidy  
2021 – EUR 158,512.00  
2022 – EUR 239,920.00  
8. Duration of the subsidy  
This support will expire on the 31st December 2023.  
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of the subsidy  
There are no effects on international trade.  
18  RESTART  
1. Title of the subsidy  
ReStart Scheme .  
2. Period covered by the notification  
The period covered by this notification starts from the 1st July 2021 until the 31st December  2022.  
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
The main objective is to support businesses which, due to the effect of the pandemic, had to 
terminate their operations or had a significant downturn, by providing them with full reimbursement 
of costs for advisory services to restart their busines s activity or venture into a new business. 
Furthermore, the scheme will also support businesses to implement the outcome of the advisory 
service.   G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
This is an administrative scheme designed in line with de minimis  aid regulations.  
5. Form of the subsidy  
Aid under this support measure is awarded in the form of a cash grant.  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
The scheme is available to self -employed , micro, small & medium sized enterprises.  
Costs will be awarded to cover the advisory and implementation phase of the project.  
Costs under the advisory stage were limited to a maximum of five thousand euro s (EUR 5,000) and 
up to one hundred and twenty e uros per hour (120/hr) excl . VAT related to qualifying advisory 
services.  
As a result of the advisory service, the beneficiary may have needed to incur a number of expenses 
to be able to implement the required changes to kick start the change in processes  or restart the 
business activities. Therefore, the Corporation gave access to a further five thousand euro s 
(EUR 5,000) to cover the implementation phase of the recommendations as highlighted by the 
advisory service. In additional out of the EUR 5,000 up to EUR 500 of this funding could have been 
utilised to finance additional advisory support required during the implementation phase as identified 
by the advisor.  
The scheme had a capping of ten thousand euro s (EUR 10,000) in assistance.  
7. Amount of the subsidy  
2021 – NIL  
2022 – EUR 3,113.00  
8. Duration of the subsidy  
The scheme expired on 31st December 2022.   
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of the subsidy  
There are no effects on international trade.  
19  EXPLORING  RESEARCH GRANT  
1. Title of the subsidy  
Exploring Research Grant . 
2. Period covered by the notification  
The period covered by this notification starts from the 1st March 2021 until 31st December, 2023.  
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
This Support M easure is intended to support eligible start -up undertakings to accelerate their growth 
phase and who have the potential and determination to intensify their position in the market as well 
as boosting employment.  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
The Exploring Research Grant Regulations, as Subsidiary Legislation 463.41 [ Malta Enterprise Act 
Chapter 463.41 of the Laws of Malta ], form the legal basis of the scheme.  
https://legislation.m t/eli/sl/463.41/eng   
The Incentive Guidelines for the Exploring Research Grant may be accessed by using the following 
link: Exploring Research G rant Scheme | Malta Enterprise  
5. Form of the subsidy  
Aid will be awarded in the form of a cash grant.  
Malta Enterprise may support the implementation of a feasibility study with a cash grant of up to 
EUR 50,000 which shall be capped at:  
a) 50% of eligible costs if the beneficiary is a Large Undertaking;  
b) 60% of eligible costs if the beneficiary is a Medium -Sized Undertaking;  
c) 70% of eligible costs if the beneficiary is a Small Undertaking.   
The amount of aid granted will not exceed EUR 7.5 million per feasibility study.  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
The grant is available to small, medium and  large undertakings.  
The scheme may support costs incurred for carrying out a feasibility study in relation to a proposed 
R&D project. The eligible costs shall be wage costs, costs related to contractual research, technical 
knowledge and patents and other  operational costs incurred specifically for carrying out the study. 
All eligible costs shall be calculated excluding VAT and any other recoverable taxes or duties.  
Details on the eligible costs are being provided below:  
WAGE COSTS   
a) The eligible costs shall be the wages of researchers, technical personnel and other staff 
required for the carrying out of the feasibility study to the extent and for the duration that 
they are directly engaged on the approved feasibility study.  
b) The eligible costs will  be calculated on the basic wage paid to the employee during the 
relevant period.  The eligible costs shall not include any additional costs such as bonuses, 
allowances, overtime, per diem and insurances.  The value deducted from the employee's 
wage as natio nal insurance shall be considered part of the basic wage paid.  
c) Claimed wage costs are subject to a maximum supportable wage of EUR 80,000 per annum.  
d) All employees in respect of whom costs are claimed must be registered with Jobsplus.  
e) The time the employee s dedicate to the project must be documented and must at the 
minimum; record the task carried out, date, activity start -time and activity end -time. Eligible 
wage costs shall be calculated by multiplying the time the employee was directly engaged 
on the stu dy with the hourly salary. The hourly salary of a full -time employee shall be 
established by dividing the annual salary by 1760 hours.  
f) Eligible wage costs of staff that do not qualify as researchers or technical personnel shall be 
capped at twenty -five per cent (25%) of the total personnel costs.   
CONTRACTUAL RESEARCH, TECHNICAL KNOWLEDGE AND PATENTS  
a) Costs of contractual research, technical knowledge and patents bought or licensed from 
outside sources at arm 's length conditions, as well as costs of consultan cy and equivalent 
services, required exclusively for the approved feasibility study may be part financed through 
this measure.  
b) Malta Enterprise shall only consider contractual research outsourced to universities, research 
institutes, independent laborator ies or third parties unrelated to the beneficiary.  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  c) Costs of consultancy and equivalent services must be rendered by experts:  
a. in the relevant field of research being investigated, that are currently following a doctoral 
program or have successfully completed doctoral training;  
b. that demonstrate relevant professional experience in a relevant field as is required to 
carry out the feasibility study.  
d) Daily rates for Consultancy must reflect actual market rates up to a maximum of EUR 800 
per d ay which shall be inclusive of travel and subsistence and all out -of-pocket expenses.  
Where more than one consultant is being used from the same firm the daily rate applies to 
the firm.  
OTHER OPERATING EXPENSES  
a) Additional overheads and other operating expenses, including costs of materials, supplies 
and similar products, incurred directly as a result of the approved feasibility study may be 
considered as eligible.  
b) When operating expenditure is not fully utilised for the funded project, the ben eficiary must 
demonstrate how such costs were apportioned to determine the expenditure related to the 
approved feasibility study.  
c) Prototype materials, specialised software tools, hire of equipment or facilities and other 
sundry costs relating to building e arly stage prototypes may be considered as eligible. (Note 
that this measure is not intended to support the development of new products, processes or 
services).  
d) Any costs not covered by the above definitions shall not be considered eligible.  Costs related 
to repair and maintenance of plant, equipment and buildings and the procurement of capital 
items and equipment (such as tools, laptops and machinery) are not eligible even if they are 
purchased or incurred for the carrying out of the feasibility study.  
7. Amount of the subsidy  
2021 – NIL 
2022 – EUR 63,789.00  
8. Duration of the subsidy  
The scheme will expire on 31st December, 2023.  
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of the subsidy   
There are no effects on international trade.  
20  FACILITAT ING WORK LIFE FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITY  
1. Title of the subsidy  
Facilitating work life for Individuals with Disability . 
2. Period covered by the notification  
The period covered by this notification starts from the 1st July 201 until 31st December, 2023.  
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
The scheme will support people with disability at their place of work within the private sector. 
Employers and self -employed can apply for a grant towards costs to re -structure and make the 
workplace more accessible for their employees with disability.  
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
This Incentive is administered by Malta Enterprise Corporation.  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  Facilitating work life for individuals with Disability Regulations [S.L. 463.43] forms the legal basis.  
https://legislation.mt/eli/sl/463.43/eng   
The Incentive Guidelines for the aid scheme Facilitting Work Life for Individuals with Disability  are 
accessible on the following link:  Facilitating Work Life for Individuals with Disability | Malta E nterprise  
5. Form of the subsidy  
The aid shall be granted in the form of a cash grant.  
The aid will cover 90% (ninety percent) of incurred eligible costs up to a maximum grant of 
ten thousand euros ( EUR 10,000) for every pr oject.  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
The measure is open to employers and self -employed who carry out an economic activity.  
Additionally, the employer must already employ at least one worker, or is in the process of recruiting 
persons with disab ility who are in possession of an EU Disability Card issued by the Commission for 
the Rights of Persons with Disability (CRPD);  
Employers are to ensure that all employees are duly registered with JobsPlus;  
The applicant must not have any arrears related to VAT, Income Tax, and Social Security.   
The applicant must not be engaged in activities specifically excluded under the de minimis  
Regulation.  
The scheme may support the costs items (as per section 4 of the guidelines) procured specifically to 
create a better work environment for employees with disabilities. Any costs incurred before the 
submission of an application will be considered ineligible.  
7. Amount of the subsidy  
2021 – NIL  
2022 – EUR 10,000.00  
8. Duration of the subsidy  
The scheme will expir e on 31st December, 2023.   
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of the subsidy  
There are no effects on international trade.  
21  FAMILY BUSINESS GRANT  
1. Title of the subsidy  
Family Businesses Grant Scheme .  
2. Period covered by the notification  
The period covered by this notification starts from the 1st February 2021 until 31st December 2023.  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
This support measure is available to undertakings registered as family businesses to address 
transitionary issues by facilitating access to advisory and mediation services.  
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
The Family Business Support Services Regulations S.L. 463.14  [Malta Enterprise Act, Chapter 463 
of the Laws of Malta ] provide t he legal basis of this incentive . 
https://legislation.mt/eli/sl/463.14/eng   
The Incentive Guidelines for the aid scheme Family Businesses Grant Scheme  are accessible on the 
following link:  Family Businesses Grant | Malta Enterprise  
5. Form of the subsidy  
The aid shall be granted in the form of a cash  grant.   
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
The Incentive is available to all undertakings registered as a Family Business.  
The maximum grant that can be awarded under these guidelines is capped at EUR 15,000 per family 
business in any rolling three ( 3) year period. Applications will be considered on a case -by-case basis 
and the level of funding will be determined following an assessment carried out by the Family 
Business Office.  
QUALIFYING EXPENDITURE  
ADVISORY ON SUCCESSION PLANNING  
Family businesses may request support for accessing advisory services to establish a succession 
plan for the business. The advisory services must address the key aspects of any succession plan 
and hence the advisory team mu st be led by an accountant, a public notary or lawyer.  
Malta Enterprise shall support family business by covering 50% of the advisory costs up to EUR 2,000 
per assignment. This will be payable to the family business as a reimbursement of costs incurred in 
engaging external consultants to establish a succession plan for business.  The appointed advisors 
must not be a direct or indirect employee, director or shareholder of the recipient company.  
The support may only be awarded in respect of new assignments tha t are to be completed within 
twelve months from approval date and should result in a detailed report on the action the business 
should take to plan for succession and mitigate problems that might be encountered.  
The advisory services provided shall not be a continuous or periodic activity nor relate to the 
undertaking's usual operating costs, such as routine tax consultancy services, regular legal services 
or advertising.  
The support only covers the consultancy services and does not cover fees for the prep aration of 
documents, forms and other related costs.  
MEDIATION  
Family businesses may request support for accessing mediation services. The mediator shall be 
appointed with the approval of the Family Business Office in consultation with Malta Enterprise.  
The Corporation shall support mediation services based on an hourly rate of up to EUR 100 per hour 
up to a maximum of 25 hours per approval.  
Any costs incurred before the submission of the application form will not be considered eligible.  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  7. Amount of the subsidy 
2021 – EUR 5,345.00  
2022 – EUR 19,230.00  
8. Duration of the subsidy  
The Family Businesses Grant came into effect on 1st February 2021 and will expire on 
31st December,  2023.   
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of the subsidy  
There are no effects on international trade.  
22  FAMILY BUSINESS TRANSFER OF OWNERSHIP  
1. Title of the subsidy  
Family Business Transfer of Ownership . 
2. Period covered by the notification  
The scheme was launched on 1st May 2021 and was updated in April 2022 to last until 
31st December,  2023.  
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
The Family Business Transfer of Ownership scheme will support family businesses to transfer their 
business to other family members ac cording to the terms and conditions stipulated in the Duty on 
Documents and Transfers Act (CAP 364 of the Laws of Malta).  
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
The Duty on Documents Transfers Act provides the legal basis of this incentive. 
https://legislation.mt/eli/cap/364/eng/pdf   
The Incentive Guidelines for the aid scheme Family Business Transfer of Ownership Scheme are 
accessible on the following link:  Family Business Transfer of Ownership | Malta Enterprise  
5. Form of the subsidy  
Duty shall be charged on the first five hundred thousand euro s (EUR 500,000) of the value of the 
property transferred at the rate of three euro s and fifty cents ( EUR 3.50) per one hundred euro s 
(EUR 100).  
The maximum amount to b e claimed as a reduction in stamp duty on the property being transferred 
is capped at EUR 7,500.  
Transfer of shares or interests in a partnership, trust or foundation held in a family business which 
carries on a business, no account shall be taken of the f irst one hundred and fifty thousand euro s 
(EUR 150,000).  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
The Incentive is available to all undertakings established in Malta and registered as a Family 
Businesses.  These include Listed Companies, Limited Liability Companies, Registered Partnerships 
and Trusts.  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  7. Amount of the subsidy  
2021 – EUR 877.00  
2022 – EUR 7,862.00  
8. Duration of the subsidy  
The scheme will expire on 31st December, 2023.   
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of the subsidy  
There are no effects on international trade.  
23  SKILLS DEVELOPMENT SCHEME  
1. Title of the subsidy  
Skills Development Scheme . 
2. Period covered by the notification  
Period covered by this notification is from 1st March 2020 until 31st December, 2022.  
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
The main objective of this Incentive is to support the development of training programmes and their 
implementation.  The training should lead to the upskilling and reskil ling of new and existing 
employees, to enhance their potential for personal growth and development and must specifically 
address the skills and knowledge requirements of the undertaking.  Though this supported training, 
it is envisaged that the assisted und ertakings will upgrade the skills of their employees, address 
skills shortages, facilitate reskilling, tackle skill mismatches and work towards developing a 
knowledge -based and skilled workforce.   
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
This Incentive is administered by Malta Enterprise Corporation.  
The Skills Development Regulations SL 463.28  [Malta Enterprise Act, Chapter 463 of the Laws of 
Malta ] provides the legal basis of this incentive . https://legislation.mt/eli/sl/463.28/eng/pdf   
The Incentive Guidelines for the Skills Development  2020 Scheme  are accessible on the following 
link: https://www.maltaenterprise.com/skills -development   
5. Form of the subsidy  
In principle the aid shall be granted in the form of a tax credit however the Corpora tion may consider 
awarding assistance in the form of a cash grant.   
Whenever the Corporation opts to award a cash grant, it may opt to cover only a percentage of the 
eligible aid intensity and award the difference as a tax credit.   
ELIGIBLE ACTIVITIES  
The training should provide the participants with the skills and knowledge that enhance their 
potential for personal growth and development and must specifically address the skills and 
knowledge requirements of the undertaking.  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  This measure shall support undertakings in providing training to employees.  The Corporation may 
support training delivered to one or more employees of the beneficiary by:  
a) other employees of the beneficiary;  
b) employees of related enterprises;  
c) external experts;  
d) Private Training Providers (holding an NCFHE license).  
Training which is mandatory under national law cannot be supported. In this regard, it is irrelevant 
whether the training is carried out to comply with national standards which are mandatory for the 
undertaking in question or for its employees to be able to engage in their role and also whether the 
training is carried out by the undertaking itself or an external trainer.  
The Corporation shall provide support in relation to the following costs:  
a) consultancy costs for developing the training programme;  
b) wage costs of trainees, covering direct contact hours during which the trainee is participating 
in the training ; 
c) wage costs of trainers, covering direct contact hours during which the trainer is deliv ering 
the training ; 
d) hourly costs covering direct contact hours of training service providers engaged to deliver 
training ; 
e) air Travel expenses incurred to send trainees to foreign training locations if the training is 
not available locally and it is more ec onomically feasible than holding the training locally ; 
f) air Travel expenses incurred to bring trainers to Malta ; 
g) rental of Training rooms, tools and equipment, to the extent that they are used exclusively 
for the training project.  
Wage costs will be calcula ted on the basis of basic monthly wage as specified in the latest 
employment contract or applicable collective agreement, plus the employer 's contribution towards 
National Insurance (i.e. 110% of wage costs as specified in employment contract).  Only increases 
stipulated in the employment contract or the collective agreement, and annual cost of living 
adjustment as announced by Government shall be considered.  The eligible amount shall be an 
allocation pro -rata of the wages to the hours spent on trainin g. Furthermore, no more than 8 hours 
per day to a maximum of 40 hours a week can be reimbursed.  
Consultancy Fees shall be only considered when the training programme supports at least 
10 employees and shall be limited to 10% of the eligible costs.  
Where tr aining costs are not charged at an hourly rate, the Corporation shall take note of the number 
of direct contact hours as specified in the training documentation and limit any reimbursement to 
EUR 25 per trainee per hour.   
One to one on the job training may  be considered if the training involves the use of machinery and 
equipment, and such training cannot be replicated efficiently in a class -room environment.   
All training should lead to pre -established outcomes relevant to the current or future role of the 
trainee.   
Any costs that may be linked to individuals, such as wage costs, may only be accepted by the 
Corporation if the appropriate Personal Data Protection Regulations applicable have been abided to.  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
This measure is available to duly registered undertakings (including self -employed persons) that:  
a) carry out an economic activity in Malta;  
and  
b) are engaged in one or more qualifying activities .  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  Undertakings engaged in any activity excluded from receiving aid under the General Block Exemption 
Regulation2 may not benefit from this measure.  
At point of application, the undertaking (legal person submitting the application) must employ at 
least five (5) persons (on full time basis).  
APPLICABLE AID INTENSITIES  
The aid intensity shall be established according to the size of undertaking.  No undertaking may be 
awarded aid in excess of two million euro s (EUR 2,000,000) per skills development project.  The aid 
intensity applicable shall not exceed the foll owing percentages of the eligible costs:  
Size of Undertaking  % 
Small  70 
Medium  60 
Large  50 
7. Amount of the subsidy  
2021 – EUR 1,530,408.00  
2022 –EUR 1,692,434.66  
8. Duration of the subsidy  
The scheme will expire on 31st December, 2022.  
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of the subsidy  
There are no effects on international trade.  
24  INVESTMENT AID TAX CREDITS 2014 – 2020  
1. Title of the subsidy  
Investment Aid Tax Credits 2014 – 2020. 
2. Period covered by the notificatio n 
The period covered by this notification starts from the 1st January 2019 until the 
31st December  2020.  
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
Investment Aid Tax Credits 2014 – 2020 is intended to facilitate initial investments by encouraging 
the setting up of new establishments and the expansion and development of existing businesses.  
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
The Investment Aid Tax Credits 2014 – 2020 is administered by Malta Enterprise Corporation.  
The Investment A id [July 2014] Regulations as Subsidiary Legislation 463.10 to the Malta Enterprise 
Act forms the national legal basis of this aid scheme.  
http://justiceservices.go v.mt/DownloadDocument.aspx?app=lom&itemid=12252&l=1  
The Incentive Guidelines for Investment Aid Tax Credits 2014 – 2020 may be accessed by using the 
following link: Investment Aid Tax Credits 2014 – 2020 | Malta Enterprise  
 
2 https://eur -lex.europa.eu/legal -content/EN/TXT/ PDF/?uri=CELEX:32017R1084&from=EN  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  5. Form of the subsidy  
In principle this is a fiscal measure, yet at the discretion of the Corporation, Cash Grants may be 
exceptionally awarded in respect to initial investment projects that provide a significant growth to  
the Beneficiary.  Any such Grants must be approved by the Corporation before the "Start of Works ". 
QUALIFYING EXPENDITURE  
Eligible expenditure shall be considered to be tangible and intangible assets that are incurred as a 
result of an eligible Initial Inv estment Project.  
The value of qualifying expenditure is calculated either as the value of qualifying assets acquired in 
relation to an initial investment project or the value of wage costs for jobs directly created by the 
initial investment project.  In any  case, all figures used shall be taken before any deduction of tax or 
other charge [unless such taxes or charges are otherwise recoverable].  
"QUALIFYING TANGIBLE ASSETS " 
For the purpose of this Support Measure, "Qualifying Tangible Assets " means assets consisting of 
land, building and plant, machinery and equipment.  The assets required shall be new for SMEs and 
for the acquisition of an establishment.  In any case, the asset needs to be first time used in Malta.  
With the exception of plant o r equipment which has become outdated due to rapid technological 
change, the tangible assets must be kept by the undertaking for at least five [5] years or 
three [3] years in the case of SMEs, after completion of the investment.   
"QUALIFYING INTANGIBLE ASS ETS" 
For the purpose of this Incentive, "Qualifying Intangible Assets " means assets that do not have a 
physical or financial embodiment such as patent rights, licences, know -how or other intellectual 
property.  Costs for the procurement of Qualifying Intangible Assets shall be considered only if the 
assets are:  
[a] used exclusive ly in the undertaking receiving the aid;  
[b] regarded as amortizable assets;  
[c] purchased under market conditions from third parties unrelated to the buyer;  
[d] included in the assets of the undertaking receiving the aid and must remain associated with 
the project fo r which the aid is granted for at least five years or three years in the case of 
SMEs.  
For Large Undertakings, costs of intangible assets are eligible only up to a limit of 50% of the total 
eligible investment costs for the initial investment.  
QUALIFYING A SSETS WHEN ACQUIRING THE ASSETS OF AN ESTABLISHMENT  
In the case of acquisition of the assets belonging to an establishment that has closed or would have 
closed had it not been purchased, the following rules shall be applicable:  
[a] only the costs of assets pur chased from third parties unrelated to the buyer shall be taken 
into consideration.  The transaction shall take place under market conditions;  
[b] if aid has already been granted for the acquisition of assets prior to their purchase, the costs 
of those assets shall be deducted from the eligible costs related to the acquisition of an 
establishment;  
[c] where a member of the family of the original owner, or an employee, takes over a small 
enterprise, the condition that the assets be bought from third parties u nrelated to the buyer 
shall be waived ; 
[d] the acquisition of shares does not constitute initial investment and hence does not constitute 
a qualifying expenditure.  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  CALCULATING THE VALUE OF INVESTMENT ON THE BASIS OF JOBS CREATED  
For calculating the value of qualifying investment on the basis of job creation, the qualifying wage 
costs covering new employment created within three [3] years of the completion of the investment 
project shall be considered.  The value of aid shall be calculated as the estimate of wa ge costs arising 
from job creation as a result of an initial investment, calculated over a period of two [2] years and 
actual disbursement of support will be in relation to actual costs incurred.  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
To be eligible for a id through this Incentive, an undertaking must operate from Malta and be 
incorporated in the European Union as a partnership en nom collectif , en commandite  or a limited 
liability company, co -operative, family business or similar set -up.  
ELIGIBLE PROJECTS  
Initial Investment Projects shall be considered for support if:  
• the investment is related to the development of a Qualifying Economic Activity ; 
• the underlying Qualifying Economic Activity shall be retained in Malta for the minimum period 
of at least five [5] years or three [3] years in the case where the beneficiary is an SME, after 
completion of the investment ; 
• the beneficiary provides a financial contribution of at least 25% of the eligible costs, either 
through its own resources or by external financing , in a form, which is free of any public 
support ; 
• the applicant confirms that it has not carried out a relocation to the establishment in which 
the initial investment for which aid is requested is to take place, in the two [2] years before 
aid application and commits that it will not carry out a relocation up to a period of two years 
after completion of the investment for which aid is requested.  
ELIGIBLE INITIAL INVESTMENT PROJECTS FOR SMES  
Investment Aid Tax Credits shall be awarded to SMEs in respect to "initial investment " meaning:  
• an investment in tangible and intangible assets resulting in;  
o the setting -up of a new establishment.  
o the extension of the capacity of an existing establishment.  
o a fundamental change in the overall production process of an exis ting establishment.  
• a diversification of the output of an establishment into products not previously produced in 
the establishment; or  
• the acquisition of assets belonging to an establishment that has closed or would have closed 
had it not been purchased, and is bought by an investor unrelated to the seller [nevertheless 
the sole acquisition of the shares of an undertaking is excluded].   
ELIGIBLE INITIAL INVESTMENT PROJECTS FOR LARGE ENTERPRISES  
Investment Aid Tax Credits shall be awarded to larg e enterprises in respect to "initial investments 
in favour of a new economic activity or activities " as long as the activity is not the same or a similar 
activity to the activity previously performed in the establishment (i.e. an activity falling under the  
same class [four -digit numerical code] of the NACE Rev. 2 statistical classification of economic 
activities as laid down in Regulation [EC] No . 1893/2006 of the European Parliament and of the 
Council of 20 December 2006 establishing the statistical classi fication of economic activities NACE 
Revision 2 and amending Council Regulation [EEC] No . 3037/90 as well as certain EC Regulations 
on specific statistical domains].   
An "initial investment in favour of a new economic activity or activities " means:  
[a] an investment in tangible and intangible assets related to the setting up of a new 
establishment, or to the diversification of the activity of an establishment, under the 
condition that the new activity is not the same or a similar activity to the activity pr eviously 
performed in the establishment;  or  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  [b] the acquisition of the assets belonging to an establishment that has closed or would have 
closed had it not been purchased, and is bought by an investor unrelated to the seller, under 
the condition that the new activity to be performed using the acquired assets is not the same 
or a similar activity to the activity performed in the establishment prior to the acquisition. 
[Nevertheless, the sole acquisition of the shares of an undertaking is excluded].   
APPLICABLE AID INTENSITY3  
A) APPLICABLE AID INTENSITIES FOR PROJECTS WHERE THE "START OF WORKS " IS ON OR 
AFTER 01/01/2018 AND BEFORE 31/12/2020  
The total amount of investment aid that may be awarded in terms of these regulations for a given 
investment project shall  not exceed:  
a. 30% of the qualifying expenditure for an undertaking which qualifies as a "Small " 
undertaking;  
b. 20% of the qualifying expenditure for an undertaking which qualifies as a "Medium -sized" 
undertaking;  
c. 10% of the qualifying expenditure for an under taking which qualifies as a "Large " 
undertaking;  
d. hotels are eligible to, 10% of the eligible expenditure in the case large undertakings, and 
15% in the case of small and medium undertakings.  
B) LARGE INVESTMENT PROJECTS  
For "Large Investment Projects " meaning initial investment projects with value of eligible costs 
exceeding EUR 50 million, the applicable maximum permissible aid shall be adjusted according to 
the following formula:  
Maximum aid amount = R x [A + 0.50 x B + 0 x C]  
Where:  
R is the maximum aid intensity applicable in the area concerned established in an approved regional 
map and which is in force on the date of granting the aid, excluding the increased aid intensity for 
SMEs;  
A is the initial EUR 50 million of eligible costs;  
B is the part of eligible costs between EUR 50 million and EUR 100 million; and  
C is the part of eligible costs above EUR 100 million.  
Any initial investment started by the same undertaking [at group level] within a period of 
three [3] years from the date of 'start of works ' or other aided investment in the same level 3 region 
of the Nomenclature of Territorial Units for Statistics shall be considered to be part of a single 
investment project.  Where such single investment project is a large investment proje ct, the total aid 
amount for the single investment project shall not exceed the adjusted aid amount for large 
investment projects.  
7. Amount of the subsidy  
2021 – EUR 11,607,779.00 (Tax Credits)  
2022 – EUR 3,929,351.68 (Tax Credits)  
 
3 For the purposes of calculating aid intensity and eligible costs, all figures used shall be taken before 
any deduction of tax or other charge.  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  8. Duration of the subsidy  
The Investment Aid Tax Credits [2014 – 2020] was affective as from 1st July 2014 and remained in 
force until the 31st December 2020.   
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of the subsidy  
There are no effects on internation al trade.  
25  INVESTMENT AID TAX CREDITS 2008 – 2014  
1. Title of the subsidy  
Investment Aid Tax Credits 2008 – 2014. 
2. Period covered by the notification  
The period covered by this notification starts from the 1st January 2008 until 30th June 2014.  
3. Policy objectiv e and/or purpose of the subsidy  
The Investment Aid Scheme intends to sustain the regional industrial and economic development of 
Malta.  This measure facilitates initial investments by encouraging the setting up of new 
establishments and the expansion and d evelopment of existing businesses.  
The main benefits derived from this assistance include:  
− increased investment;  
− increased job opportunities;  
− increase in the GDP  
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
The Investment Aid Regulations as Subsidiary Legislation 463.02 to the Malta Enterprise Act forms 
the national legal basis of this aid scheme.  
http://justiceservices.gov.mt/DownloadDocument.aspx?app= lom&itemid=11607&l=1  
The Incentive Guidelines for Investment Aid Tax Credits Scheme may be accessed by using the 
following link:  Investment Aid Tax Credits 2008 – June 2014 (Closed Measure) | Malta Enterprise  
5. Form of the subsidy  
Aid provided under the Investment Aid Tax Credits Scheme comes in the form of tax relief.  Once 
Malta Enterprise is satisfied that the undertaking has met all the conditions set out in the Incentive 
Guidelines, the undertaking will be provided with an Incentive Entitlement Certificate.   
At the discretion of Malta Enterprise, the entitlement of aid ma y be exceptionally converted to other 
forms of aid in respect to initial investment projects that provide a significant contribution to the 
development of the Maltese economy. Any such conversions must be pre -approved in writing by 
Malta Enterprise before work on the project commences.  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
Eligible enterprises for the assistance provided by this aid scheme may be Micro, SMEs or Large 
Enterprises.  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  AID INTENSITIES  
The total amount of investment aid that may be awarded in te rms of these regulations for a given 
investment project shall be:  
− in the case of a company which qualifies as a 'Small ' enterprise, never exceed 50% of the 
eligible investment;  
− in the case of a company which qualifies as a 'Medium ' enterprise, never exceed 40% of the 
eligible investment;  
− in the case of a company which qualifies as a 'Large ' enterprise, never exceed 30% of the 
eligible investment . 
Assistance is calculated in relati on to either:  
a. tangible and intangible assets acquired in relation to an initial investment project;  
or  
b. wage costs for jobs directly created by the initial investment project.  
7. Amount of the subsidy  
2021 –  EUR 19,335,480 – Claimed Tax Credits (the award ed tax credits indicated are being reported 
upon the issuing of a tax credit certificate)  
 EUR 813,742.00 – Utilised Tax Credits   
2022 - EUR 8,422,297.00 – Utilised Tax Credits.  
8. Duration of the subsidy  
This incentive measure was implemented on the 1st January 2008 and terminated on the 
30th June 2014.   
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of the subsidy  
There are no effects on international trade.  
26  INVESTMENT AID 2021  
1. Title of the subsidy  
Investment Aid 2021 .  
2. Period covered by  the notification  
The period covered by this notification starts from the 1st January 2021 until 31st December, 2021.   
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
Investment Aid 2021  is intended to sustain the regional industrial and economic development of 
Malta. This measure facilitates investments by encouraging the setting up of new establishments 
and the expansion and development of businesses in Malta.  
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
The Investment Aid 2021 Regulations, 2021 as Subsidiary Legislation 463.40 to the Malta Enterprise 
Act forms the national legal basis of this aid scheme. https://legislation.m t/eli/sl/463.40/eng   
The Incentive Guidelines for Investment Aid 2021 may be accessed by using the following link:  
Investment Aid 2021 | Malta Ent erprise   G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  5. Form of the subsidy  
The aid provided under this scheme is calculated as a percentage of qualifying expenditure incurred 
and may take the form of tax credit and/or cash grants.  
AID INTENSITIES  
The amount of inve stment aid that may be awarded in terms of these regulations for a given 
investment project shall not exceed the lower applicable intensity specified below:  
a. 30% of the qualifying expenditure for an undertaking which qualifies as a "Small " 
undertaking;  
b. 20% of the qualifying expenditure for an undertaking which qualifies as a "Medium -sized" 
undertaking;  
c. 15% in respect to initial investment project carried out by 'Small ' and "Medium -sized" 
undertakings in the development of hotels, guest hous es and their amenities as licensed by 
the Malta Tourism Authority.  
d. 10% of the qualifying expenditure for an undertaking which qualifies as a "Large " 
undertaking . 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
Eligible enterprises for the assistance provided by t his aid scheme may be Micro, SMEs or Large 
Enterprises.  
Investment aid is calculated either in reference to tangible and intangible investment costs resulting 
from the initial investment project, acquisition of assets of an establishment or to the value of  wage 
costs for jobs directly created from the initial investment.  
7. Amount of the subsidy  
2021 – EUR 80,479,319.00  
8. Duration of the subsidy  
This incentive measure expired on 31st December, 2021.  
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of the subsidy  
There are no effects on international trade.  
27  INVEST (SUPPORT FOR INITIAL INVESTMENT PROJECTS)  
1. Title of the subsidy  
Invest (Support for Initial Investment Projects) Scheme .  
2. Period covered by the notification  
The period covered by th is notification starts from 1st May, 2022 until 31st December, 2023.   
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
Invest – Support for Initial Investment Projects scheme  is intended to sustain the regional industrial 
and economic development of Malta. This measure facilitates investments by encouraging the setting 
up of new establishments, the expansion of existing facilities and the diversification of existing 
businesses amongst other activities.  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
Invest Regulations, 2022 as Subsidiary Legislation 463.46 to the Malta Enterprise Act forms the 
national legal basis of this aid scheme. https://legislation.mt/eli/sl/463.46/eng   
The Incentive Guidelines for Invest (Support for Initial Investment Projects) may be accessed by 
using the following link:  
Invest - Support for Initial Investment Projects | Malta Enterprise  
5. Form of the subsidy  
The aid awarded under this scheme may take the form of either one or a combination of the 
following:  
a. tax credit (which may be claimed against future Income Tax bills) ; 
b. cash gran ; 
c. loan interest rate subsidy ; 
d. loan guarantee . 
Fiscal aid under this measure is non -discretionary and shall be awarded to any project that meets 
the el igibility criteria.  Cash grants, interest rate subsidies and loan guarantees may be awarded at 
the discretion of the Corporation.  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
Eligible enterprises for the assistance provided by this aid scheme may be Micro, SMEs or Large 
Enterprises.  
Aid is calculated either in reference to tangible and intangible investment costs resulting from the 
initial investment project or to the value of wage costs for jobs directly created from the initial 
investment.   
TAX CRED IT 
Any tax credits awarded may only be utilised by the beneficiary as long as the activity supported is 
still being carried out in the establishment. The Corporation shall annually provide the beneficiary 
with a statement of any tax credit balance until al l allocated tax credits are utilised.  
CASH GRANTS  
A cash grant may be awarded in respect of initial investment projects following an evaluation of the 
project and its economic impact.  Any such grant must be approved in writing by Malta Enterprise 
before the Start of Works and during the validity of the scheme.  
LOAN INTEREST RATE SUBSIDY  
The Corporation may support eligible initial investment projects with an Interest Rate Subsidy that 
shall not exceed an interest rate equivalent to three percent (3%) pe r annum. In any case 1% of 
the interest rate charged by the bank must be paid by the beneficiary. Irrespective of the term of 
the loan, the subsidy shall only be available up to the tenth (10th) year from the date of the initial 
drawdown.   
The Corporation shall establish a maximum annual subsidy in its approval.  
The Beneficiary shall be required to provide details of a specific loan account with a Bank which shall 
be used exclusively to pay all eligible costs related to the supported invest ment project. The 
Corporation shall only consider eligible payments made directly from this loan account.  
The Gross Grant Equivalent of any interest rate subsidy  shall be calculated at the net present value 
of future subsidies using the discount rate estab lished in relation to the Base Rates  calculated in G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  accordance with the Communication from the  Commission on the revision of the method for setting 
the referenc e and discount rates  (OJ C 14, 19.01.2008, p.6.). For establishing the value of aid the 
following formula shall be adopted:  
Value of aid  = ∑(𝑉𝑎𝑙𝑢𝑒  𝑜𝑓 𝑆𝑢𝑏𝑠𝑖𝑑𝑦 )𝑖
(1+(𝑅𝑒𝑓𝑒𝑟𝑎𝑛𝑐𝑒  𝑅𝑎𝑡𝑒  + 100  𝑏𝑎𝑠𝑖𝑠  𝑝𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑠 ))𝑖𝑛
𝑖=0  
Where:   n is the number of repayment period covered by the subsidy.  
LOAN GUARANTEES FOR SMES   
An Eligible Undertaking which must qualify as a Small or Medium -Sized enterprise may be supported 
through a guarantee to be used  against a bank loan required for:  
a) the setting -up of a new establishment; or  
b) the extension of the capacity of an existing establishment.  
The guarantee shall not exceed ten million euro s (EUR 10,000,000) and shall be reduced annually 
in accordance with the repayment schedule specified in the loan agreement. At no instance shall the 
guarantee cover more than 80% of the supported loan.  
The value of aid shall be calculated by establishing the current value (using the applicable reference 
rate) of the guarantee premium which would have had to be paid on the annual outstanding amounts 
of the loan as scheduled.  The premium shall be established by reference to the safe harbour 
premiums established by Commission Notice on the application of Articles 87 and 88 of the EC Treaty 
to State aid in the form of guarantees - Official Journal C 155 of 20.06.2008, page 10 . For 
undertakings that do not have a credit history or rating based on a balance sheet approach, the 
safe-harbour premium shall be set at 3.8%.  Any guarantee p remium can never be lower than the 
premium which would be applicable to the parent company or companies.   
7. Amount of the subsidy  
2022 – EUR 8,456,440.00  
8. Duration of the subsidy  
This incentive measure will expire on 31st December, 2023.   
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of the subsidy  
There are no effects on international trade.  
28  COVID -19 : INVESTMENT AID FOR THE PRODUCTION OF COVID -19 RELEVANT 
PRODUCTS  
1. Title of the subsidy  
Investment Aid for the Production of COVID-19 Relevant Products  
2. Period covered by the notification  
The period covered by this notification starts from the 29thApril 2020 until 31st December, 2021.  
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy   
The Measure aims at supporting the production of products needed to respond to the COVID -19 
outbreak.  Given the public health crisis and the shortage of certain related products, it is essential 
that the State can provide incentives to Companies to direct their activities to production of c ertain 
products which are crucial to tackle that crisis, to address medical and social needs in the current G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
- 56 - 
 
  situation and the post confinement phase.  It is considered that this Measure contributes to the 
existing public health crisis.  
This measure targets investment projects whether to increase or initiate production and 
manufacturing of COVID -19 relevant products and technologies or to diversify existing production 
to be able to produce and manufacture COVID -19 relevant products and technologies, including : 
• medicinal products [including vaccines] and treatments, their intermediates, active 
pharmaceutical ingredients and raw materials;  
• medical devices, hospital and medical equipment [including ventilators, protective clothing 
and equipment as well as diagnostic tools) and necessary raw materials;  
• disinfectants and their intermediary products and raw chemicals materials necessary for 
their production;  
• equipment and machinery required to sanitise products and environments;  
• data collection/processing tool s; and  
• screening and tracking devices/technology and associates supporting infrastructure and 
technology.  
Malta Enterprise will consider as eligible projects those that have started on or after 
1st February  2020.  Projects that started before 1st February 2 020 may be deemed eligible if the aid 
is necessary to accelerate or widen the scope of the project.  
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
This Incentive is administered by Malta Enterprise Corporation.  
This Incentive is administered by Malta Enterprise Corporation.  
The COVID -19 Temporary Support Measures Regulations, as Subsidiary Legislation 463.34  [Malta 
Enterprise Act, Chapter 463 of the Laws of Malta ] provides the legal basis of this incentive . 
https://legislation.mt/eli/sl/463.34/eng/pdf  
This measure falls within the terms and conditions established by the Temporary Framework for 
State aid measures to support the economy in the current COVID -19 ou tbreak1 adopted by the 
Commission on 19 March 2020 (C (2020) 1863), and as amended on 3rd April 2020, on 8th May 2020 
on 29th June 2020, on 13th October 2020 and on 28th January 2021, and as may be subsequently 
amended (hereinafter The Temporary Framework).  
The Incentive Guidelines for the Investment Aid for the Production of COVID -19 Relevant Products 
are accessible on the following link : Investment Aid for the production of COVID -19 relevant products 
| Malta Enterprise  
5. Form of the subsidy  
This Measure provides aid in the form of a  cash grant or repayable advance, with the possibility of 
an additional bonus in the form of a tax credit.  
This incentive has a cash budget of EUR 12,000,000 and a fiscal budget to be awarded as tax credit 
of EUR 1,500,000.  
QUALIFYING EXPENDITURE:  
Eligible costs incurred after 1st February 2020 in relation to the approved projects must fall within 
the following categories:  
➢ Tangible and intangible assess procured to develop, manufacture and provide COVID -19 
relevant products;  
➢ Wage costs of personnel  engaged to design and develop tools, processes and solutions for 
the production and manufacturing of COVID -19 relevant products.  These costs shall only be 
eligible if fully capitalised and accounted for in terms of the applicable accounting standards 
as costs incurred for the creation of an asset;  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  ➢ Wage costs of personnel engaged to develop data collection and processing tools [including 
AI solutions] supporting the medical profession and the general public in issues related to 
COVID -19 pandemic.  These cost s shall only be eligible if fully capitalised and accounted for 
in terms of the applicable accounting standards as costs incurred for the creation of an asset.  
➢ Costs incurred for trail runs of the new [diversified] production facilities such as costs of 
materials required for trial runs of production facilities and costs of data sets acquired to test 
data processing and collection solutions.  
In the case of projects that commenced before 1st February 2020, only the additional costs in relation 
to the accele ration efforts or the widened scope of the production shall be eligible for aid.  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
The scheme has the scope to support undertakings that have the technological competence to set 
up and/or development production units t hat result in products and services that:  
• support health authorities in their work to control the COVID -19 pandemic;  
• the health sector can use in treating COVID -19 health issues; or  
• can be used to limit and contain transmission (and health risks) during and post the 
COVID -19 outbreak.  
The measure shall support investment projects for the production of COVID -19 relevant products, 
such as:  
• medicinal products (including vaccines) and treatments, their intermediates, active 
pharmaceutical ingredients and raw  materials;  
• medical devices, hospital and medical equipment (including ventilators, protective clothing 
and equipment as well as diagnostic tools) and necessary raw materials;  
• disinfectants and their intermediary products and raw chemical materials necessary for thei r 
production;  
• equipment and machinery required to sanitise products and environment;  
• data collection/processing tools.  
• screening and tracking devices/technology and associated supporting infrastructure and 
technology.  
Malta Enterprise may provide financi al support not exceeding 80% of the eligible costs to support 
undertakings to carry out investment projects to increase or initiate production of COVID -19 relevant 
products/technologies or to diversify existing production to be able to produce COVID -19 rel evant 
products/technologies.  
This may be increased by an additional 15% if the project is carried out in collaboration with another 
undertaking established in another Member State which is also receiving support from that Member 
State.  
7. Amount of the subsidy 
2021 – EUR 1,139,000.00  
2022 – EUR 1,692,434.66  
8. Duration of the subsidy  
This support measure became effective on the 29th April 2020 and has been prolonged until 
31st December, 2021. The scheme is now closed.  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of the subsidy  
There are no effects on international trade.  
29  COVID -19 : SUPPORT TO ENTREPRENEURS AFFECTED BY THE SPREAD OF COVID -19 
[RENT AND ELECTRICITY PAYMENTS OF BUSINESS PREMISES]  
1. Title of the subsidy  
Support to Entrepreneurs affected by the spread of COVID -19 [Rent and Electricity Payments of 
Business Premises] . 
2. Period covered by the notification  
The period covered by this notification starts from the 10th July, 2020 until 31st December  2021.  
3. Policy objective an d/or purpose of the subsidy  
This measure forms part of an overall package of measures and aims to ensure that sufficient 
liquidity remains available in the market, to counter the liquidity shortage faced by undertakings 
because of the COVID -19 outbreak, to  ensure that the disruptions caused by the outbreak do not 
undermine the viability of the undertakings and thereby to preserve the continuity of economic 
activity during and after the outbreak.  
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
The COVID -19 Temporar y Support Measures Regulations, as Subsidiary Legislation 463.34  [Malta 
Enterprise Act, Chapter 463 of the Laws of Malta ] provides the legal basis of this incentive . 
https://legislation.mt/eli/sl/463.34/eng/pdf  
The Incentive Guidelines for the Support to Entrepreneurs affected by the spread of COVID -19 [Rent 
and Electricity Pay ments of Business Premises]  are accessible on the following link : Rent and 
Electricity Refund Scheme (COVID support measure) | Malta Enterprise  
5. Form of the subsidy  
This Measure provides aid in the form of direct grants.  
RENTAL COSTS 2021  
In order to mitigate for the reduction of liquidity of eligible undertakings which:  
a) were closed as per Legal Notice 90 of 2021 (Closure of Non -Essential Retail Outlets and 
Outlets Providing Non -essential Services Order, 2021)4; or 
b) were closed as per Legal Notice 94 of 2021 (Enforcement of the Order relating to Closure of 
Places Open to the Public Regulations, 2021)5; or 
c) carried out activities directly dependent on the economic performance of undertakings closed 
by the above referenced Legal Notices (in points a and b); will be entitled to claim rental 
costs of up to three thousand seven hundred and fifty Euro s (EUR 3,750)  on up to 
five (5) licenced business premises as detailed below.  The premises must be rented from 
third parties specifically for the carrying out of economic activities.  The maximum support 
for beneficiaries that received support in 2020 will be capped at fifty percent (50%) of the 
support awarded in 2020 while support for applicants that had not been supported in 2020 
will be capped as established in the table below:   
 
4 https://legislation.mt/eli/ln/2021/90/eng  
5 https://legislation.mt/eli/ln/2021/94/eng  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  For rental costs, eligible Beneficiaries were entitled to claim rental costs of up to 3,7 50 on up to 
five licenced business premises as detailed below:  
Employees Receiving Wage 
Supplement  Eligible Rental Agreements  Maximum Support  
1 to 9  1 EUR 1,250  
10 to 19  Up to 2  EUR 2,000  
20 to 29  Up to 3  EUR 2,750  
30 to 39  Up to 4  EUR 3,500  
40 and over Up to 5  EUR 3,750  
The premises must be rented from third parties specifically for the carrying out of economic activities.  
The rent agreement must have been signed before 11th March 2021. Renewals signed after this date 
were considered eligible if the rental agreement was active prior to 11th March, 2021.  
Rental agreements which entered into force after 11th March were not included in the scope of the 
measure.  
QUALIFYING EXPEN DITURE: ELECTRICITY COSTS  
For electricity costs, an eligible undertaking that received the wage supplement in respect to wage 
costs incurred in 2020, shall be entitled to a grant of up to EUR 7,500 (as per table below) covering 
50% of the electrical power costs covering any period in July, August and September 2020.  
Additionally, all eligible undertakings which  
a) were closed as per Legal Notice 90 of 2021 (Closure of Non -Essential Retail Outlets and 
Outlets Providing Non -Essential Services Order, 2021)6 ; or 
b) were closed as per Legal Notice 94 of 2021 (Enforcement of the Order relating to Closure of 
Places Open to the Public Regulations, 2021)7; or 
c) carried out activities directly dependent on the economic performance of undertakings closed 
by the above referenced Legal Notices (in points a and b);  
will be entitled to apply for a grant of up EUR 7,500 (as per table below) covering 50% of the actual 
costs of electricity incurred during the months of June, July and August 2021.  
The maximum aid per undertak ing per annum shall be capped as follows:  
Employees Receiving Wage 
Supplement  Number of distinct electricity 
accounts  Maximum Support  
1 to 9  1 electricity account  EUR 1,500  
10 to 19  Up to 2 electricity accounts  EUR 3,000  
20 to 29  Up to 3 electricity accounts  EUR 4,500  
30 to 39  Up to 4 electricity accounts  EUR 6,000  
40 and over  Up to 5 electricity accounts  EUR 7,500  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
The Beneficiaries of this Measure are all undertakings irrespective of their size who benefitted or are 
benefitting from the Wage Supplement Initiative.  Credit and financial institutions are excluded as 
eligible Beneficiaries.  
7. Amount of the subsidy  
2020 – EUR 1,979,857.24  
2021 – EUR 18,207,689.26  
 
6 https://legislation.mt/eli/ln/2021/90/eng  
7 https://legislation.mt/eli/ln/2021/94/eng  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  8. Duration of the subsidy  
This suppor t measure expired on 31st December, 2021.   
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of the subsidy  
There are no effects on international trade.  
30  COVID -19 : WAGE SUPPLEMENT SCHEME UNDER THE TEMPORARY FRAMEWORK FOR 
STATE AID MEASURES TO SUPPORT THE ECONOMY IN THE CURRENT COVID -19 OUTBREAK  
1. Title of the subsidy  
Wage Supplement Scheme under the Temporary Framework for State Aid Measures to support the 
economy under the current COVID -19 Outbreak  
2. Period covered by the notification  
The period covered by this notification starts from 9th March, 2020 until 30th June, 2022.  
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
This aid Scheme is intended to contribute to wage costs of undertakings in situations where 
personnel wo uld have otherwise been laid off due to disturbances in business caused by the 
COVID -19 outbreak.   
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
The legal basis for this measure are the COVID -19 Wage supplement scheme – government notice 
389 of 2020 as amended by government notice 888 of 2021 and the C OVID-19 Temporary Support 
Measures Regulations , as Subsidiary Legislation 463.34  [Malta Enterprise Act, Chapter 463 of the 
Laws of Malta ] provides the legal basis of this incentive . https://legislation.mt/eli/sl/463.34/eng/pdf  
Parameters of aid and details of the aid scheme can be  accessible through the following link : 
https://covid19.maltaenterprise.com/wage -supplement -main/  
5. Form of the subsidy  
This Measure provides aid in the form of direct grants.  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
The direct Beneficiaries under this Incentive are full -time and part -time self -employed individuals 
and employees of undertakings that have been negatively affected by the COVID -19 outbreak.  The 
final Beneficiaries are undertakings of any size, wh ich have been negatively affected by the 
COVID -19 outbreak.  
As economic activity increases, a reduction in Wage Supplement has been implemented in 
two phases. The first phase was implemented in August 2021 while a second reduction has been 
implemented in t he fourth quarter of 2021. These reductions will not have an effect on businesses 
that have been hardest hit by the pandemic. These will still receive the full wage supplement till the 
end of 2021.  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  From August 2021 beneficiaries have received a wage supplement in relation to the decrease in 
sales based on VAT submissions and any other official documentation which the Corporation may 
deem to be relevant.  The maximum allowable wage supplement was calculated as provided in the 
table below:  
Drop in Revenu es Wage Supplement as from 
August for full -time employees  Wage Supplement as from 
August for part -time employees  
10% to 24%  EUR 100 65 
25% to 34%  EUR 200 125 
35% to 44%  EUR 290 180 
45% to 54%  EUR 510 320 
55% or greater  EUR 800 500 
From October 2021, a further reduction has been implemented and the maximum wage supplement 
was calculated as provided in the table below:  
Drop in Revenues  Wage Supplement as from 
October for full -time employees  Wage Supplement as from 
October for part -time employees  
10% to 24%  EUR 50 35 
25% to 34%  EUR 100 60 
35% to 44%  EUR 145 90 
45% to 54%  EUR 250 150 
55% or greater  EUR 800 500 
For applicants whose sales (revenue) data is not readily available, the wage supplement for full -time 
employees was capped at EUR 420 as from August 2021 and at EUR 210 as from October 2021.  No 
wage supplement has been provided to part -time employees of any applicant whose turnover data 
is not made available to the Corporation.  
7. Amount of the subsidy  
2021 – EUR 331,487,490.00  
2022 – EUR 107,372,328.00  
8. Duration of the subsidy  
This support measure expired on 30th June, 2022.   
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of the subsidy  
There are no effects on international trade.  
31  COVID -19 : BUSINESS CONTINUITY  SCHEME 2020  
1. Title of the subsidy  
Business Continuity Scheme 2020 . 
2. Period covered by the notification  
The period covered by this notification starts from the 1st January 2019 until the 31st December  2020 
(as per notification any applications received after this day will be rejected.  Nevertheless, any 
applications received by or on the 31st December 2020 may be processed by the Corporation on a 
later date).  
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
The Measure is intended to assist undertakings to address the economic downturns caused as a 
result of COVID -19. The awarded assistance shall su pport businesses to sustain their operation, G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  maintain their workforces or to mitigate any risks which the business may be faced with as a result 
of such an Exceptional Circumstance.  
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
This Incentive is administered by  Malta Enterprise Corporation.  
The Enterprise Support Incentives Regulations SL 463.04 [Malta Enterprise Act, Chapter 463 of the 
Laws of Malta ] provides the legal basis of this incentive . 
http://www.justiceservices.gov.mt/DownloadDocument.aspx?app=lom&itemid=11609&l=1  
These Incentive Guidelines are a set of rules issued by the Corporation from time to time containing 
details on the definition, application, administration, grant and revocation of aid schemes. The 
Incentive Guidelines for the aid scheme Business Continuity Scheme  2020 are accessible on the 
following link: 
https://www.maltaenterprise.com/sites/default/files/Business%20Continuity%20Scheme%20Incen
tive%20 Guidelines%20%28Version%201.0%29%20FINAL.pdf  
5. Form of the subsidy  
This Measure provides aid in the form of as cash grant.  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
The Corporation may award a cash grant of up to EUR 200,000 to undertakings to address a 
temporary disruption in business or operational processes as a result of an Exceptional Circumstance 
and to ensure that the business operation can resume in the shortest time possible once the situation 
is addressed.  
7. Amount of the subsidy  
2021 - EUR 86,000 .00 
8. Duration of the subsidy  
This support measure became effective on 1st March 2020 and expired on the 31st December 2020.  
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of the subsidy  
There are no effects on international trade.  
32  COVID -19 : SUPPORT FOR LOCAL NEWS MEDIA DURING THE COVID -19 OUTBREAK  
1. Title of the subsidy  
Support for Local News Media during the COVID -19 Outbreak . 
2. Period covered by the notification  
The period covered by this notification starts from the 1st March 2020 until 31st March, 2021.  
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
The purpose of this measure is to assist news media providers during COVID -19. 
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
This is an administrative measure, the terms and con ditions covering this aid scheme  are in line with 
the Commission Regulation [EU] No. 1407/2013 of 18th December 2013 on the application of G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  Articles  107 and 108 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union to de minimis  aid [the 
de minimis  Regulat ion].  
The total amount of de minimis aid granted to a single undertaking shall not exceed the amount of 
EUR 200,000 over any period of three consecutive fiscal years.  
This aggregate maximum threshold applies in principle to all economic sectors with the exception of 
the road transport, agriculture and fisheries sectors for which different thresholds and criteria apply. 
The term 'undertaking ' includes also all companies in a group [which fall under the direct or indirect 
ownership or control of the same ultimate parent company] and relevant partner and linked 
enterprises as defined in Annex I of Commission Regulation [EC No . 800/2008]. This period covers 
the fiscal year c oncerned as well as the previous two fiscal years. "Fiscal year " means the fiscal year 
as used for tax purposes by the undertaking concerned.  
http://ec.europa.eu/competition/state_aid/legislation/de_minimis_regulation_en.pdf  
5. Form of the subsidy  
The aid shall be grant ed in the form of a cash grant.  
The Corporation may support additional costs incurred by media providers for the provision of a local 
news service in Malta during the COVID -19 outbreak . Such costs must be incurred in the period 
between 1st March 2020 and 31st March, 2021.  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
The measure is open to undertakings active in the provision of local, daily news services via 
television, radio, printed media and/or online platforms intended mainly for persons li ving in Malta.   
The applicant must employ at least four [4] full time journalists registered with Jobsplus.  
The aid provided shall be capped as follows:  
TV Media Providers  up to EUR 45,000 per month  
News Print media providers  up to EUR 10,000 per month  
Online News Portals Media Providers  up to EUR 5,000 per month  
Radio Media Providers  up to EUR 3,500 per month  
Providing a News service on more than  one portal and/or channel up to EUR 10,000 per month  
7. Amount  of the subsidy  
2021 – EUR 220,000.00  
8. Duration of the subsidy  
The scheme has been prolonged and expired on 31st March, 2021.  
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of the subsidy  
There are no effects on international trade.  
33  COVID -19 : ONE TIME GRANT FOR BUSINESS OPERAT IONS  
1. Title of the subsidy  
One time Grant for Business Operations kept closed after 10th May 2021 due to C OVID-19 
restrictions . 
2. Period covered by the notification  
The period covered by this notification starts from the 17th May 2021 until 31st December, 2021.   G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
The one -time grant will support those businesses which will remain closed due to the C OVID -19 
pandemic. This is a targeted measure to continue supporting businesses which have been hit hard 
by the pandemic and which have been instructed by the Health Authorities to remain inactive beyond 
10th May, 2021.   
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
This Incentive is an administrative scheme in line with the Commission Regulatio n [EU] 
No. 1407/2013 of 18th December 2013 on the application of Articles 107 and 108 of the Treaty on 
the Functioning of the European Union to de minimis aid [the de minimis Regulation] .  
The Incentive Guidelines for the One -Time Grant for Business Operations kept closed after 
10th May 2021 due to COVID -19 restrictions are  accessible on the following link :  
One-Time Grant for Business Operations kept closed after 10th May 2021 due to Covid -19 
restrictions | Malta Enterprise  
5. Form of the subsidy  
The aid shall be granted in the form of a cash grant.  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
The scheme is open to all applicants receiving the COVID -19 Wage Supplement Scheme.  
As from 10th May 2021 a number of businesses will be remain closed because of the risk of viral 
transmission associated with their activity. These undertakings engage in an activity (or activities) 
that are still closed after the 10th May as per instructions issued by  the Health Authorities, or in an 
activity directly dependent on these closed activities, will benefit from a one -time grant of one 
thousand euro s (EUR 1,000).  
7. Amount of the subsidy  
2021 – EUR 669,000.00  
8. Duration of the subsidy  
The scheme has expired on 3 1st December, 2021.   
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of the subsidy  
There are no effects on international trade.  
34  INTERNATIONAL TRADE PROMOTION INCENTIVE SCHEME  
1. Title of the subsidy  
International Trade Promotion Incentive Sche me. 
2. Period covered by the notification  
The period covered by this notification starts from the 1st January 2021until 31st December, 2023.   
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
To assist Malta -based companies in pre -determined sectors to internationalise through targeted co -
financing initiatives.  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
The Malta Enterprise Act . 
The Enterprise Support Incentives Regulations SL 463.04  [Malta Enterprise Act, Chapter 463 of the 
Laws of Malta ] provides the leg al basis of this incentive .  
http://www.justiceservices.gov.mt/DownloadDocument.aspx?app=lom&itemid=11609&l=1  
5. Form of the subsidy  
Cash grant co -financing of eligible expenses at a 40/50% co -financing rate.  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
Eligible Malta -based companies may apply according to the published Guidelines and, if approved, 
may in turn apply for a refund of documented eligible expenses.  
7. Amount of the subsidy  
2021: EUR 283,886.00  
2022: EUR 633,318.00  
8. Duration of the subsidy  
N/A. 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of the subsidy  
There are no effects on international trade.  
35  COVID -19 MEASURES - LAND  
1. Title of the subsidy  
Temporary State aid to Land Farmers . 
2. Period covered by the notification  
2021 -2022. 
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
The grant shall contribute to partially supporting the income of land farmers in the context of sudden 
unforeseen increased costs in production and distribution directly attributed to COVID -19. 
4. Background and Authority for the subsidy  
Legal basis:  
• EC temporary framework for state aid measures to support the economy in the current 
COVID -19 outbreak  
• Chapter 146 of the Laws of Malta - Agricultural and Fishing Indust ries (Financial 
Assistance)  Act 
http://www.justiceservices.gov.mt/DownloadDocument.aspx?app=lom&itemid=8674&l=1  
Granting Authority and Competent Authority to manage the scheme:  
• Agriculture and Rural Payments Agency  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  5. Form of the subsidy  
This aid is a direct grant based on a rate of EUR 200.00 per hectare. The area to pay is calculated 
on the least value amongst the amount of entitlements activated, area declared, and determined for 
claim year 2020 for the Basic Payment Scheme by active fa rmers as provided for in Commission 
Regulation (EU) No . 1307/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 17 December 2013 
establishing rules for direct payments to farmers under support schemes within the framework of 
the common agricultural poli cy and repealing Council Regulation (EC) No . 637/2008 and Council 
Regulation (EC) No . 73/2009.  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
Farmers who having holdings amounting to 0.3  ha or more and who benefit from the CAP Basic 
Payment Scheme in Claim Year 2020/2021 are eligible to apply for assistance under this scheme.  
7. Amount Committed for this subsidy  
• EUR 200 per ha.  
• EUR 1,500,000 for the whole scheme  
8. Amount Paid so far on this subsidy  
• COVID -19 MEASURES – LAND CY 2020  
Sub item 01 20 21 00 0000 006 -           EUR 1,365,085.48  
Sub item 01 20 21 00 0000 001 -           EUR 5.425.42  
Total EUR 1,370,510.90  
* Data as of 31.12.2021  
• COVID -19 MEASURES – LAND CY 2021  
Sub item 01 20 22 00 0000 006 -           EUR 1,324,261.44  
* Data as of 31.12.2022  
9. Duration of the subsidy  
2021 - Till 31/12/2021  
2022 - Till 30/06/2022  
10. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of the subsidy   
No negative effects on competition and trade are foreseen since the aim of the scheme is to ensure 
the via bility of land farmers.  
36  COVID -19 MEASURES - LIVESTOCK  
1. Title of the subsidy  
Temporary State aid to Animal Farmers . 
2. Period covered by the notification  
2021 – 2022. 
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
The objective of the scheme is to support unde rtakings active in the primary agricultural production 
sector by providing a grant, which shall contribute to partially supporting the income of animal 
farmers in the context of sudden unforeseen market disruption and increased costs in production 
and dist ribution directly attributed to the outbreak of COVID -19. The scheme will thus cover the G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  immediate liquidity needs of the animal farmers in order to ensure that they can continue their core 
activities during the crisis and continue to operate after the cri sis. 
4. Background and Authority for the subsidy  
Legal basis:  
• EC temporary framework for state aid measures to support the economy in the current 
COVID -19 outbreak  
• Chapter 146 of the Laws of Malta - Agricultural and Fishing Industries (Financial 
Assistance)  Act 
http://www.justiceservices.gov.mt/DownloadDocument.aspx?app=lom&itemid=8674&l=1  
Granting authority and compete nt authority to manage the scheme:  
• Agriculture and Rural Payments Agency  
5. Form of the subsidy  
This aid is a direct grant based on the approved ceilings divided by the amount of eligible approved 
units per sector.  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
In order to be eligible for assistance under this scheme, beneficiaries will have to fall within one of 
the following categories:  
• farmers registered with dairy farms with the Veterinary Regulation Directorate (VRD) who 
benefited from the CAP VCS milk scheme in claim year 2020/2021 ;  
• farmers registered with dairy farms with the Veterinary Regulation Directorate (VRD) who 
benefited from the CAP VCS beef scheme in claim year 2020/2021 ;  
• farmers registered with active pig farms with the Veterinary Regulation Directorate (VRD) 
with at least 2 sows (as reported in the sows ' census) ;  
• farmers registered with sheep farms with the Veterinary Regulation Directorate (VRD) with 
at least 20 heads who benefited from the CAP VCS sheep scheme in claim year 2020 /2021 ;  
• farmers registered with goat farms with the Veterinary Regulation Directorate (VRD) with at 
least 20 female heads ;  
• farmers registered with layer hen farms with the Veterinary Regulation Directorate (VRD) ;  
• farmers registered with broiler farms wit h the Veterinary Regulation Directorate (VRD) ;  
• beekeepers registered with colonies with the Veterinary Regulation Directorate (VRD) with 
at least 5 colonies ;  
• farmers registered with rabbit farms with the Veterinary Regulation Directorate (VRD) with 
at least 50 female does  
7. Amount Committed  for this subsidy  
2021 
• Dairy - EUR 400 per eligible head in 2020 (based on the Voluntary Coupled Support 
EC 1307/2013) (total budget EUR 1,500,000) farmers who in 2021 increased production and 
notified APRA appropriately may eventually be awarded a top -up payment covering any 
positive differences in the amount of eligible heads based on the determination of eligible 
heads for VCS M1 scheme in Claim year 2021 . 
• Beef - EUR 120 per eligible head slaughtered in 2020 (based on t he Voluntary Coupled 
Support EC 1307/2013) (total budget EUR 240,000) . 
• Sheep - EUR 20 per eligible head in 2020 (based on the Voluntary Coupled Support 
EC 1307/2013) (total budget EUR 290,000) . 
• Pigs - EUR 130 per eligible sow/gilt (in accordance with the latest census carried out by VRD) 
(total budget EUR 490,000) . 
• Goats - EUR 20 per female goat registered in NLD as at 31/12/2020 (total budget 
EUR 100,000) . G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  • Broilers - EUR 0.21 payment per LU according to th e latest actual production run per farm 
in Q4 2020 (total budget EUR 195,000) . 
• Layers - EUR 0.22 payment per LU as at 31/12/2020 (total budget EUR 85,000) . 
• Beekeepers - EUR 11 per bee box registered in NLD as at 31/12/2020 (total budget 
EUR 50,000) . 
• Rabbit s - EUR 2.5 per female doe registered with the VRD as at 31/12/2020 (total budget 
EUR 50,000) . 
2022 
• Dairy - EUR 210 per eligible head in 2021 (based on the Voluntary Coupled Support 
EC 1307/2013) (total budget EUR 800,000) farmers who in 2022 increased pro duction and 
notified APRA appropriately may eventually be awarded a top -up payment covering any 
positive differences in the amount of eligible heads based on the determination of eligible 
heads for VCS M1 scheme in Claim year 2022 .  
• Beef - EUR 90 per eligible head slaughtered in 2021 (based on the Voluntary Coupled 
Support EC 1307/2013) (total budget EUR 190,000) . 
• Sheep - EUR 23 per eligible head in 2021 (based on the Voluntary Coupled Support 
EC 1307/2013) (total budget EUR 290,000) . 
• Pigs - EUR 150 per eligible sow/gilt (in accordance with the latest census carried out by VRD) 
(total budget EUR 550,000) . 
• Goats - EUR 23 per female goat registered in NLD as at 31/12/2021 (total budget 
EUR 100,000) . 
• Broilers - EUR 0.30 payment per LU according to the latest actual production run per farm 
in Q4 2021 (total budget EUR 300,000) . 
• Layers - EUR 0.40 payment per LU as at 31/12/2021 (total budget EUR 150,000) . 
• Beekeepers - EUR 12 per bee box registered in NLD  as at 31/12/2021 (total budget 
EUR 50,000) . 
• Rabbits - EUR 3 per female doe registered with the VRD as at 31/12/2021 (total budget 
EUR 70,000) . 
8. Amount Paid so far on this subsidy  
• COVID -19 MEASURES - LIVESTOCK - MIXED SECTORS CY 2020  
Sub item 01 20 21 00 00 00 007 -           EUR 1,621,235.08  
Sub item 01 20 21 00 0000 002 -           EUR 46,784.64  
• COVID -19 MEASURES - LIVESTOCK - SINGLE SECTORS CY 2020  
Sub item 01 20 21 00 0000 008 -           EUR 1,019,243.67  
Sub item 01 20 21 00 0000 003 -           EUR 163,086.87  
Total EUR 2,850,350.26  
* Data as at 31.12.2021  
• COVID -19 MEASURES - LIVESTOCK - MIXED SECTORS CY 2021  
Sub item 01 20 22 00 0000 007 -           EUR 1,171,698.90  
• COVID -19 MEASURES - LIVESTOCK - SINGLE SECTORS CY 2021  
Sub item 01 20 22 00 0000 008 -           EUR 1,021,656.43  
Total EUR 2,193,355.33  
* Data as at 31.12.2022  
9. Duration of the subsidy  
2021 - Till 31/12/2021  
2022 - Till 31/06/2022  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  10. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of the subsidy   
No negative effects on competition and trade are foreseen since the aim of the scheme is to ensure 
the viability of livestock farmers.  
37  NATIONAL PIG WELFARE  
1. Title of the subsidy  
National Pig Welfare Scheme . 
2. Period covered by the notification  
2021-2022 
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
The objective of the scheme is to support undertakings active in the primary agricultural production 
sector that voluntarily undertake certain specific actions to improve animal welfare on their farm. 
This scheme will grant aid to swine producers for increased sow spacing allowance considerations 
for pig farms.  
4. Background and Authority for the subsidy  
Legal basis:  
• Chapter 146 of the Laws of Malta - Agricultural and Fishing Industries (Financial 
Assistance)  Act 
http://www.justiceservices.gov.mt/DownloadDocument.aspx?app=lom&itemid=8674&l=1  
• European Union Guidelines for State aid in the agricultural and forestry sectors and in rural 
areas 2014 to 2020 (2014/C 204/01), as may be amended.  
Granting Authority and Competent Authority to manage the scheme:  
• Agriculture and Rural Payments Agency  
5. Form of the subsidy  
This aid is a direct aid based on a maximum rate of EUR 150 per sow and gilt. Each claim year 
applicants must declare the amount of heads eligible for the scheme, then ARPA carries out 
on-the-spot checks on 5% of the ap plicants in this regard. ARPA may also use data from the 
Veterinary Regulation Department collected during official inspections. The aid will be granted 
annually, ARPA may grant an advance payment of up to 40% to all applicants, and then issues a 
final pay ment upon finalisation of the on -the-spot check campaign for that claim year. Aid will be 
calculated on the least between: the entitled amount of heads provided in the grant agreement, the 
amount of heads declared in the annual payment claim and the amount  of heads determined as a 
result of administrative and on the spot checks and or information provided by the Veterinary 
Regulation Department. Provided that during the lifetime of a sow it is not always kept in groups, 
ARPA shall pay in accordance with the  mechanism provided for in the previous point. During the on -
the-spot checks (OTSC) it shall be determining whether at the time of the OTSC the minimum area 
for each sow/guilt being kept in groups as provided for in Subsidiary Legislation 439.02 a minimum 
of 2.73  m2 of unobstructed area per sow/guilt is provided.  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
Active farmers registered with active pig farms with the Veterinary Regulation Directorate (VRD) 
with at least 2 sows (as reported in the sows ' census carried out in 2021). Applications must be 
submitted by not later than the deadline, declaring the number of heads being claimed for support.  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  7. Amount Committed for this subsidy  
2021 
• Overall budget of EUR 2,232,000  
• Annual Budget of EUR 446,400  
• EUR 125 per Sow and gilt.  
2022 
• Overall budget of EUR 2,232,000  
• Annual Budget of EUR 446,400  
• EUR 128 per Sow and gilt.  
8. Amount Paid so far on this subsidy  
• SWINE WELFARE SCHEME CY 2021  
Sub item 01 20 21 00 0000 009 -           EUR 431,500.00        
* Data as at 31.12.2021  
• SWINE WELFARE SCHEME CY 2022  
Sub item 01 20 22 00 0000 004 -           EUR 430,177.00  
* Data as at 31.12.2022  
9. Duration of the subsidy  
Till 31/12/2025  
10. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effect s of the subsidy   
No negative effects on competition and trade are foreseen since the aim is to encourage farmers to 
improve animal welfare by increasing sow spacing on their farms.  
38  TEMPORARY STATE AID TO RECOGNIZED SWINE CO -OPERATIVES  
1. Title of the subsidy  
Temporary State Aid to Recognized Swine Co -operatives . 
2. Period covered by the notification  
2022 
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
The grant shall contribute to support undertakings active in the collective processing and/ or 
marketing of primary agricultural products in the swine sector by providing a grant which contributed 
to partially supporting their income in the context of the sudden unforeseen market disruption and 
increased costs in production and distribution direc tly, attributed to the outbreak of COVID -19. The 
scheme covered the immediate liquidity needs of this sector in order to ensure that they can continue 
their core activities during the crisis and continue to operate after the crisis.  
4. Background and Authorit y for the subsidy  
Legal basis:  
• Chapter 146 of the Laws of Malta - Agriculture and Fishing Industries (Financial Assistance) 
Act – Accessible from https://legislation.mt/eli/cap/146/20080101/ eng (Annex B) . 
• Article 107(3)(b) TFEU – Accessible from https://eur -lex.europa.eu/legal -
content/EN/ALL/?uri=CELEX%3A12008E107 . G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  • Temporary Framework for State aid measures to support the economy in the current 
COVID -19 outbreak – Accessible from  
https://eur -lex.eur opa.eu/legal -content/EN/TXT/?uri=OJ%3AJOC_2020_091_I_0001  
Granting Authority and Competent Authority to manage the scheme:  
• Agriculture and Rural Payments Agency  
5. Form of the subsidy  
Aid was a direct grant based on the approved ceilings allocated in accordance with the amount of 
eligible approved units; eligible units were based on the number of sows/gilts reared by members 
of the co -operative as determined by the competent authority i.e., Veterinary Regulation Directora te 
(VRD) in the most recent census. This means that aid was calculated on a maximum of 3657 sows 
and gilts determined in census 2021.  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
The scheme was intended for farmers organisations registered as a Co -operative in  line with the 
Co-operative Societies Act (CAP 442 of the Laws of Malta) that are involved in the collective 
processing and/or marketing of pig meat on behalf of their members in Malta by the date of the 
submission of the application.  
7. Amount Committed for  this subsidy  
EUR 200,000 for the whole scheme  
8. Amount Paid so far on this subsidy  
• STATE AID SWINE CO -OPERATIVES – 2022 
Sub item 01 20 22 00 0000 009 -           EUR 200,000.00  
* Data as at 31.12.2022  
9. Duration of the subsidy  
Till 30/06/2022  
10. Statistical da ta permitting an assessment of the trade effects of the subsidy   
No negative effects on competition and trade are foreseen since the aim of the scheme is to ensure 
the viability of land farmers.  
39  FERTILISER SCHEME TO LAND FARMERS  
1. Title of the subsidy  
Fertiliser Scheme to Land Farmers . 
2. Period covered by the notification  
2022 
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
The grant shall contribute to partially the increase in cost of fertilisers for land farmers in the context 
of the sudden unforeseen increased costs in production directly attributed to the aggression against 
Ukraine by Russia.  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  4. Background and Authority for the subsidy  
Legal basis:  
• National legal basis: Chapter 146 of the Laws of Malta - Agriculture and Fishing Ind ustries 
(Financial Assistance) Act - Accessible from  
https://legislation.mt/eli/cap/146/20080101/eng   
• Temporary Crisis Framework for State Aid measures to supp ort the economy following the 
aggression against Ukraine by Russia (OJ C 131 I/1, 24.3.2022) – Accessible from  
https://eur -lex.europa.eu/legal -content/EN/ TXT/?uri=uriserv:OJ.CI.2022.131.01.0001.01.
ENG 
Granting Authority and Competent Authority to manage the scheme:  
• Agriculture and Rural Payments Agency  
5. Form of the subsidy  
Aid was a cash grant issued through a voucher -based system sent to identified eligible farmers to 
partially support the income of land farmers in the context of the sudden unforeseen increased costs 
of fertilisers directly attributed to the invasion of Ukraine by Russia. The vouchers were rede emed 
from a list of retail outlets identified through an Expression of Interest and recognized by the Paying 
Agency as eligible participants in the scheme. The retailers then claim the amount of vouchers 
redeemed at their end from the Paying Agency.  
6. To who m and how the subsidy is provided  
The scheme was intended for land farmers with agriculture holdings registered in Malta.  
The scheme applied to micro and small enterprises active in 01.1 – Growing of non -perennial crops; 
01.2 – Growing of perennial crops; 01.3 – Plant propagation; 01.61 – Support activities for crop 
production.  
In order to be eligible, beneficiaries must:  
• have been active farmers (as provided for in Regulation (EU) No . 1307/20131) that have 
holdings amounting to 0.3 ha or m ore; 
• have been beneficiaries who applied and were eligible for payment for the Basic Payment 
Scheme for Claim Year 2021 and/or were beneficiaries of Measure 13 - Payments to areas 
facing natural or other specific constraints in line with 1305/2013 who have  holdings 
amounting to 0.3 ha or more for Claim Year 2021 ; 
• either have marketed their produce through the Pitkali markets in 2021, and/or applied for 
the Voluntary Coupled Support for Tomatoes for processing for CY 2022, and/or have 
registered in IACS vine yards and submitted the grape harvest declaration for 2021with the 
Agriculture Directorate, and/or have submitted a digital crop plan with the Agriculture 
Directorate.  
7. Amount Committed for this subsidy  
EUR 3,000,000 for the whole scheme  
8. Amount Paid so far  on this subsidy  
FERTILISER VOUCHER SCHEME  
Sub item 01 20 23 00 0000 001 -           EUR 2,009,750.00  
* Data of commitment as at 31.12.2022  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  9. Duration of the subsidy  
Till 31/12/2023  
10. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of the subsi dy  
No negative effects on competition and trade are foreseen since the aim of the scheme is to ensure 
the viability of land farmers.  
40  BOAT RESTORATION SCHEME 2021 - 2022  
1. Title of the subsidy  
Boat Restoration Scheme 2021 -2022. 
2. Period covered by the notification  
2021 - 2022 
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
The scheme entailed the provision of financial assistance to MFA and MFB boat owners of one of the 
traditional Maltese wooden vessels, these being Firilla, Frejgatina, Kajjik and Luzzu . The 
implementation of this scheme was deemed necessary by the DFA as the maintenance costs of 
wooden vessels is substantially higher than that associated with vessels made from fiberglass. As a 
result, in recent years some fishers have switched from owni ng a wooden vessel to one made from 
fiberglass in order to lower their maintenance and repair costs.  
Given that most of the maintenance work required on traditional wooden vessels is primarily carried 
out by fishers themselves, it was deemed appropriate t hat the assistance provided should be in the 
form of reimbursement of maintenance and repair costs incurred directly by the owners.  
The support granted as part of the scheme can be considered as a direct investment towards the 
sustainability and cultural preservation of the traditional Maltese wooden fishing fleet. This scheme 
in the long run is expected to help in the preservation of Maltese seaside towns and villages and 
increase tourism in port areas, both of which help generate employment in these loca lities and keep 
local businesses alive.  
4. Background and Authority for the subsidy  
Legal basis:  
• Commission Regulation (EU) N o. 717/2014 of 27 June 2014 on the application of Articles 107 
and 108 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union to de minimis  aid in the fishery 
and aquaculture sector.  
• Publication of Government Notice in Government Gazette  
Granting Authority:  Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture  
5. Form of the subsidy  
The aid provided as part of this scheme was in the form of a direct cash grant to reimburse some of 
the maintenance and repair costs incurred directly by the owners.  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
The scheme entailed the provision of financial assistance to MFA and MFB boat owners that have 
one of the traditional Maltese wooden vessels, these being Firilla, Frejgatina, Kajjik and Luzzu.  The 
aid provided as part of this scheme was in the form of a direct grant to reimburse some of the 
maintenance and repair costs incurred directly by the owners.  
Aid was provided through a direct bank transfer to the claimants ' personal bank account following 
the submission of the required documentation and  the necessary checks by the Department of 
Fisheries and Aquaculture.  
7. Amount of the subsidy  
2021 - The approved scheme budget was that of EUR 435,000.00, with the final paid out sum 
amounting to EUR 162,078.31.  
2022 - The approved scheme budget was that of EUR 422,900.00, with the final paid out sum 
amounting to EUR 98,071.32  
8. Duration of the subsidy  
The scheme was launched during the first quarter of 2021, with fishers being reimbursed for 
expenditure that was incurred from 1st March 2021 to the 26th of November 2021. Payments to 
scheme beneficiaries were made during the first quarter of 2022.  
The scheme was also launched during the first quarter of 2022, with fishers being reimbursed for 
expenditure that was incurred f rom 1st March 2022 to the 28th of November 2022. Payments to 
scheme beneficiaries were made during the first quarter of 2023.  
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of the subsidy  
Given that the maintenance costs of wooden vessels are substantially higher than that associated 
with vessels made from fiberglass, negative effects on competition and trade, were minimal, if any.   
41   COVID -19 FINANCIAL AID GRANT SCHEME FOR FISHERS  
1. Title of the subsidy  
COVID -19 Financial Aid Grant Scheme for Fishers . 
2. Period covered by the notification  
2021 - 2022 
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
The measure aimed at preserving employment by compensating fishers for a loss of income resulting 
from measures adopted at national level to r espond to the COVID -19 outbreak and, in particular, at 
supporting low earning self -employed individuals whose income has been negatively impacted, if 
not lost, as a result of that outbreak. This safeguards the viability of the undertakings and thereby 
preserving the continuity of economic activity during and after the outbreak.  
4. Background and Authority for the subsidy  
Legal basis:  
Chapter 146 of the Laws of Malta - Agricultural and Fishing Industries (Financial Assistance) Act and 
EC Temporary Framework for  State Aid Measures to Support the Economy in the Current C OVID-19 
Outbreak.  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  5. Form of the subsidy  
The financial assistance proposed via this scheme was based on the value lost per fish caught on a 
rate of EUR 0.98/KG of fish caught in year 2020. The aid provided as part of this scheme was a 
one-off payment in order to compensate fishers for a loss of i ncome resulting from measures adopted 
at national level to respond to the COVID -19 outbreak.  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
The aim of the aid measure was to financially assist Maltese fishers in dealing with the impact of 
COVID -19 on their busine ss. This scheme was directed towards MFA and MFB licenced vessels 
registered with the Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture.  
Aid was provided through a direct bank transfer to the claimants ' personal bank account following 
the submission of the required  documentation and the necessary checks by the Department of 
Fisheries and Aquaculture.  
7. Amount of the subsidy  
For the First Part of this scheme , 505 undertakings were supported in 2021. The final sum of aid 
granted or committed by 31st December 2021 to these 505 undertakings totals to EUR 687,800.00.  
During the Second Launch of this scheme, the final sum of aid granted by 30th June 2022 totals to 
EUR 15,500.  
8. Duration of the subsidy  
The scheme was launched during the fourth  quarter of 202 1, with fishers being reimbursed by the 
31st of December 2021.  
The scheme was then relaunched during the First Quater of 2022, with fishers being reimbursed by 
the 31st of May 2022.  
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of the subsidy  
Nil effects are envisaged from this subsidy.  
42  EMFF 1.9.1 COMPENSATION SCHEME FOR TEMPORARY CESSATION OF FISHING 
ACTIVITIES  
1. Title of the subsidy  
EMFF 1.9.1 Compensation Scheme for  Temporary Cessation of Fishing Activities  
2. Period covered by the notification  
This Temporary Cessation Schemes is covered by a Grant Agreement that is valid from 2019 -2020. 
In order to launch the scheme in 2021 the Grant Agreement has been extended until 
30th June 2022.The scheme which was implemented in 2019, 2020 and 2021 is part -financed by the 
European Maritime and Fisheries Fund 2014 - 2020 
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
The Swordfish Temporary Cessation scheme which was launched in 2019, 2020 and 2021 provides 
financial compensation to MFA and MFB fish vessel owners that fish for swordfish. The aim of the 
scheme is to promote further the recovery of swordfish stocks by ex tending the closed season by an 
additional month by providing financial compensation to fishers that opt to not go out at sea during 
the month of December.  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  4. Background and Authority for the subsidy  
Legal basis:  
• EMFF 2014 -2020 Operational Programme -Grant Ag reement  
• EU regulation 1303/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council  
• EU regulation 508/2014 of the European Parliament and of the European Council  
• EU regulation 1380/2013 of the European Parliament and of the European Council  
Granting Authority: Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture  
5. Form of the subsidy  
The aid scheme provided financial assistance in the form of direct financial grant based on the 
following formula:  
L(t) = P x D x R  
Where  
L(t) = The premium for the temporar y suspension of fishing activities  
P = daily loss in landings volume  
D = days of Suspension (i.e. maximum of 20  days)  
R = rate per kilo established on landings income less costs  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
The final beneficiaries of the meas ure were fishers that are registered with the Department of 
Fisheries and Aquaculture as MFA (Full -time) and MFB (Part -time) and who have an active Swordfish 
licence.  
Aid was provided through a direct bank transfer to the claimants ' personal bank account following 
the submission of the required documentation and the necessary checks by the Department of 
Fisheries and Aquaculture.  
7. Amount of the subsidy  
The approved scheme budget, as per the Grant Agreement, is that of EUR 500,000.00.  
For the Temporary Cessation Scheme that was launched in 2021, the total amount of aid disbursed 
amounted to EUR 92,887.17.  
8. Duration of the subsidy  
This Temporary Cessation Schemes is covered by a Grant Agreement that is valid from 2019 -2020. 
The Grant Agre ement has been extended until 30th June 2022 to implement the scheme that is 
launched in 2021.  
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of the subsidy  
No negative effects on competition and trade were recorded since the aim of the sch eme was that 
of ensuring the recovery of fish stocks.  
43  FINANCIALLY COMPENSATING FISHERS DUE TO THE INCREASE OF FUEL PRICES 
CAUSED BY THE RUSSIAN – UKRAINIAN CONFLICT  
1. Title of the subsidy  
Financially compensating fishers due to the increase of fuel prices caused by the Russian – Ukrainian 
Conflict . G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  2. Period covered by the notification  
2022 
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
The objective of the notified aid measure is to financially support fishers to reduce operational 
expenditure emanating from the increase in fuel prices caused by the Russian invasion against 
Ukraine.  
The inflation of duty -free fuel has had a drastic effect on the operations carried out by local 
fishermen. Fishers have reacted to this by reducing costs  on their vessels, and by reducing the days 
spent at sea. The DFA shall therefore be providing financial assistance via this scheme to reduce 
operational expenditure due to the increase in fuel prices.  
The proposed financial compensation measure aims to a chieve the following goals:  
• the pricing formula will protect the local fishers ' population from drastic fuel increases to 
which they would not cope with;  
• prevent detrimental impact on local fishers, especially those who in the past invested in their 
machin ery and equipment in an attempt to secure a steady flow of income from this sector;  
and 
• retaining of fishers in the fisheries sector, as higher fuel prices may lead to the decline of a 
large number from this profession.  
Finally, it is expected that the pr oposed aid measure will support MFA vessel owners to remain 
operating in this market once things recover.  
4. Background and Authority for the subsidy  
Legal basis:  
• Agriculture and Fishing Industries (Financial Assistance) Act (CAP 146 of the Laws of Malta)  
• The Temporary Crisis Framework for State Aid Measures to Support the Economy following 
the aggression against Ukraine by Russia.  
Granting Authority: Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture  
5. Form of the subsidy  
The aid provided as part of this scheme was in the form of a direct cash grant to reimburse some of 
the costs on the rise of fuel incurred directly by the owners.  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
The scheme entail s the provision of financial assista nce to MFA Fishers. The aid provided as part of 
this scheme was in the form of a direct cash grant to reimburse some of the costs on the rise of fuel 
incurred directly by the owners.  
Aid was provided through a direct bank transfer to the claimants ' persona l bank account following 
the submission of the required documentation and the necessary checks by the Department of 
Fisheries and Aquaculture.  
7. Amount of the subsidy  
The approved scheme budget was that of EUR 717,000.00, with the final paid out sum amountin g 
to EUR 715,320.00. G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  8. Duration of the subsidy  
The scheme was launched during the second  quarter of 2022, with fishers being reimbursed in 
two payments, those being in:  
• September 2022 for expenditure that was incurred from  the 1st March 2022 to the 31st July 
2022.  
• December 2022 for expenditure that was incurred from  the 1st August 2022 to the 31st 
October  2022.  
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of the subsidy  
Nil trade effects are envisaged from this subsidy.  
44  INCENTIVE SCHEME FOR SUSTAINABLE FISHING  
1. Title of the subsidy  
Incentive scheme for Sustainable Fishing .  
2. Period covered by the notification  
2021-2022 
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
In order to promote sustainable fishing and conservation of marine biological resources and the 
marine environment, in line with Regulation (EU) No . 1380/2013, the scheme 's objective is to 
promote more responsible fishing and awareness of the negative impacts of current practices by 
providing an inc entive to fishers to fish using less environmentally damaging methods and gear.  
The scheme aims to encourage fishers to adopt measures for sustainable fishing, through selective 
fishing and the derating of engines. The prospective applicants thus have two streams of assistance 
to choose from . 
The first stream (Option A) will provide for financial reimbursement capped at EUR 700 per vessel 
for the cost of purchasing environmentally friendly fishing gear which includes, pingers, hemp rope, 
fishing trammel net s with thicker braiding from 33mm upwards, circle hooks, biodegradable fishing 
lures and lines and non -toxic fishing weights.  
Through the second stream (Option B), the fisher would reduce the power of the main engine. This 
can be achieved either by:  
1. derating the main engine of the vessel, or  
2. by registering a new engine with reduced power with DFA.  
The Fishers opting to reduce the power of the main engine are eligible for a financial grant for 
five years running following the power reduction exercise.  
4. Background and Authority for the subsidy  
Legal basis:  
• Commission Regulation (EU) N o. 717/2014 of 27 June 2014 on the application of Articles  107 
and 108 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union to de minimis  aid in the 
fishery and a quaculture sector.  
• Publication of Government Notice in Government Gazette .  
• CAP 146 of the laws of Malta Agricultural and fishing industries (financial assistance) . 
Granting Authority: Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture .  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  5. Form of the subsidy  
The aid provided as part of this scheme was in the form of a direct cash grant to reimburse either 
costs related to the purchase of an environmentally friendly fishing gear ( Option A) or costs related 
with the reduction in the power of the main engine (Opt ion B).  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
The scheme entailed the provision of financial assistance to MFA and MFB boat owners who sold at 
least 25% of their catch between 1st July 2021 and 31st December 2021 at the Fish Market in Marsa. 
The aid prov ided as part of this scheme was in the form of a direct grant to reimburse either costs 
related to the purchase of an environmentally friendly fishing gear ( Option A) or costs related with 
the reduction in the power of the main engine (Option B).  
Aid was p rovided through a direct bank transfer to the claimants ' personal bank account following 
the submission of the required documentation and the necessary checks by the Department of 
Fisheries and Aquaculture.  
7. Amount of the subsidy  
The approved scheme budget was that of EUR 347,900.00, with the final paid out sum amounting 
to EUR 15,729.71 in 2022.  
A total amount of EUR 2,600.00 will be disbursed annually for Option B applicants between 
2023-2026.  
8. Duration of the subsidy  
The scheme was launched during the thir d quarter of 2021, with fishers being reimbursed for 
expenditure that was incurred from 1st July 2021 to the 30th of April 2022 who opted for Option A. 
Option B applicants were reimbursed for the percentage reduction in the power of the main engine 
and other costs related to derate the main engine.  
Payments to scheme beneficiaries of Option A were made during the first and second quarter of 
2022.  
Payments to scheme beneficiaries of Option B were made during the first quarter of 2022.  
An annual grant to Option B beneficiaries according to the percentage reduction will be granted until 
2026.  
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of the subsidy  
Given that the scheme 's objective was to encourage fishers to adopt sustainable fishing m ethods, 
any negative effects on competition or trade were minimal, if any.   
45  WTO STATE AID - SALMONELLA COMPENSATION TO POULTRY PRODUCERS 
2021  - 2022  
1. Title of the subsidy 
Salmonella Compensation to Poultry Producers. 
2. Period covered by the notification 
2021 - 2022 G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
It is important to point out that the measures  foreseen for the eradication of salmonella in poultry 
flocks and content in SL437.104 have had a positive impact on the human health. In fact, since 
when the Salmonella National Control Plan has started, the human cases of salmonellosis have 
decreased s ignificantly. 
The ultimate aim of both national and EU Legislation is to reduce the number of positivity both in 
animals and humans by taking certain restrictive measures  such as the destruction of the 
contaminated eggs and/or the culling of infected flocks. 
4. Background and Authority for the subsidy 
Legal Bas is: 
The Compensation for poultry reared  for eggs which were ordered to be removed from the market 
is to be paid according to Subsidiary Legislation 437.104 (Measures  for the Eradication of Salmonella 
Regulations) https://legislation.mt/eli/sl/437.104/eng 
5. Form of the subsidy 
The compensation is paid in cash (bank payment) and is calculated on the price that is pre-established 
and published on the Government Gazette dated 30th November, 2021 Adv. 1573 (Page 12595) 
https://www.gov.mt/en/Government/DOI?Government%20Gazette/Documents/2021/11/Gove rnm
ent%20Gazette%20 -%2030th%20November.pdf  
The following is also taken into consideration when  the compensation is calculated: 
(a) sampling and analysis for Salmonella infection shall be carried out by authorised personnel 
from the Department or Approved Laboratories. Positive results shall only be considered 
following official sampling and authorised official analysis; 
(b) producers shall be informed of the results of such official sampling and analysis by officials 
from the Department as early as possible; 
(c) the Department shall instruct the producers as to the actions required to be taken in order to 
effect the culling of the infected flocks; 
(d) the producer shall ensure that none of the infected flocks, eggs, feed or manure leave the 
poultry farm without prior authorisation from the Department; 
(e) the producer is obliged to follow all instructions given by the Department; 
(f) following the authorised or supervised culling and subsequent removal for recovery of 
condemned flocks and destruction of condemned products, the producer shall be presented 
with an official receipt stating the precise quantity of birds and products culled and destroyed. 
These quantities shall form the basis upon which compensation will be calculated; 
(g) producers shall be compensated within three months of the date of approval of compensation 
of infected flocks and related products; 
(h) on first time isolation of Salmonella enteritidis or Salmonella typhimurium, the producer shall 
receive full compensation; 
(i) on second repeated isolation of Salmonella enteritidis or Salmonella typhimurium, the 
producer shall receive: 
(i) a maximum of 70% of compensation rates, provided biosecurity measures have 
been respected and any alterations recommended in terms of point 4(b) were carried 
out; 
(ii) a maximum of 25% of compensation rates if biosecurity measures were not adhered 
to and any alterations recommended in terms of point 4(b) were not carried out; G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  (j) on the third repeated isolation of Salmonella enteritidis or Salmonella typhimurium, the 
producer shall receive: 
(i) a maximum of 40% of compensation rates, provided biosecurity measures have 
been respected and any alterations recommended in terms of point 4(b) were carried 
out; 
(ii) no compensation if biosecurity measures were not adhered to and if alterations 
recommended in terms of point 4(b) were not carried out; 
(k) no compensation shall be given to producers on the fourth repeated isolation of Salmonella 
enteritidis or Salmonella typhimurium. 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided 
The compensation was given to three (3) producers that tested positive to salmonella (one producer 
was not given compensation since the farm has tested positive in several occasions in previous 
years, hence not eligible for compensation). 
In order for a producer to be eligible for compensation for culled poultry flocks (broilers or layer flocks 
of Gallus or turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo)) under the Salmonella Control Programme, all the 
following conditions shall be satisfied: 
(a) the poultry farm shall be licensed  by the Department for Veterinary Services as a poultry 
farm;  
(b) the poultry farm or producer shall not be undergoing any legal proceedings related to 
withdrawal of the poultry farm's license;  
(c) the producer shall collaborate with public officials and grant access to authorised personnel 
from the Department for testing and sampling at all times; 
(d) the producer shall follow, to the best of his abilities, all advice and recommendations 
regarding biosecurity measures  to prevent Salmonella infection; 
(e) the use of antimicrobial agents as a preventive measure for Salmonella infection shall 
be prohibited and such agents shall not be administered for such purpose. The use of such 
antimicrobial agents or the presence of their residues shall render the poultry flock ineligible 
for compensation; 
(f) the producer shall receive an official communication from the Director stating that the flocks 
present on his poultry farm are infected with Salmonella enteritidis or Salmonella 
typhimurium and therefore the flock and their products are unfit for human consump tion in 
the actual state and consequently condemned. 
7. Amount of the subsidy 
2021 - EUR 54,519.14 (b ank payment for all 3 producers) 
2022 - EUR 67,710.11 (b ank payment for all 3 producers) 
8. Duration of the subsidy 
Producers are compensated for infected poultry culled and infected eggs destroyed in terms of the 
Schedule at rates as the Minister may from time to time prescribe by notice in the Gazette: provided 
that such compensation rates shall not exceed the average market price of poultry or eggs for the 
previous three months. 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of the subsidy  
The subsidy is given to reduce the economic burden of the loss of income related to the culling of 
the infected flocks. and also to reduce the number of positivity in humans. 
46  TRAINEESHIP SCHEME  
1. Title of the subsidy programme  
Traineeship Scheme . G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  2. Period covered by the notification  
Under the ESF2.201 – Enhancing Employability through Training Project, Jobsplus started running 
the first Traineeship Schemes in 2014. All traineeships offered under this project were concluded by 
end 2015. In 2016, Jobsplus re -launched the Traineeship Sch eme through another ESF Project 
(ESF.01.001 – Training for Employment).   
The Traineeship Scheme forms part of the  Training for Employment  project, which is co -financed by 
the European Social Fund 2014 -2020.   
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
The Traineeship Scheme provides jobseekers with initial vocational training (pre -employment 
training) that would help individuals obtain the knowledge, skills and competences required to find 
and retain employment. Traineeships are based on a combination o f on-the-job and off -the-job 
training. The programmes offered are labour market driven, whereby the job preferences of the 
jobseekers are matched with the requests made by employers participating in the scheme. A 
Traineeship is of 300 -hour duration over a maximum period of 12 weeks, consisting of 282 hours as 
on-the-job training and 18 hours as off -the-job training. The maximum number of placement hours 
in any given week is 40 hours. Throughout the scheme trainees receive a training allowance for 
every hour  attended. The training allowance, which is paid by Jobsplus through an ESF funded 
project, is calculated on the National Minimum Wage.  
4. Background and authority for the subsidy (including identification of the legislation under 
which it is granted )  
− The reimbursements payable to trainees is co -financed by the European Social Funds (80% 
through ESF and 20% through National Funds).  
− Jobsplus , Malta's Public Employment Service is responsible for administering the ESF funded 
project "Training for Employment ".  
− The general framework for traineeships in Malta was set by articles 18 to 25 of the amended 
Employment and Training Services Act (Chapte r 594) which came into force in 2018.  
5. Form of the subsidy (i.e., grant, loan, tax concession, etc. )  
Periodic payments.  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
During participation in the scheme, trainees were no longer requested to choose between the training 
allowance payable by Jobsplus and social benefits, but they were only eligible for the training 
allowance payable by Jobsplus. In 2016, the training allowa nce was set at EUR 4.20 per hour 
attended (the hourly rate was set on the National Statutory Minimum Wage applicable at the time – 
allowances are pegged to the minimum wage), while in 2017 and 2018 the rate increased to 
EUR 4.24 and EUR 4.31 respectively. As of April 2019, the Traineeship Scheme has been re -designed 
to be made more flexible for participants. Participants have the flexibility to manage the placement 
hours, in agreement with the employer and utilise them within a maximum period of 12 weeks. 
Hence participants are not bound to report for a minimum number of hours in any given week but 
can report to as much as they want to for up to a maximum of 40 hours weekly.  
In 2019 and 2020 the hourly rates stood at EUR 4.40 and EUR 4.48 respectively.  Trainees were 
requested to submit original attendance sheets that highlighted the time when they started and 
concluded the on -the-job and off -the-job training for each day. The attendance sheets had to be 
endorsed by the employer representative. Once the attend ance sheets were verified and 
computation was confirmed as correct, a reimbursement request form for trainees opting for the 
training allowance was generated and trainee was paid accordingly. Payments were issued on the 
20th day of each month. This process  was revised, and the payments are now issued every fortnight. 
As from February 2020, participants receiving social benefits retained their social benefits 
entitlement whilst receiving their training allowance.  
Following almost full absorption of funds for  this scheme, for the months  of May and June 2021, the G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  eligibility criteria were changed.  The scheme was open for unemployed and inactive persons aged 
between 20 to 64 and who never participated in this scheme before.  The applications for this scheme 
remai ned open until the end of July 2022.  During year 2021 and 2022 the hourly rates stood at 
EUR 4.53 and EUR 4.57 respectively.   
Under the Training for Employment Project, employers are not entitled for any allowances, as all 
costs related to participants ' training and work placement are borne by Jobsplus.  
7. Subsidy per unit  or in cases where this is not possible, the total amount or the annual amount 
budgeted for that subsidy  
In 2021 and 2022 the funds disbursed amounted to EUR 47,612.15 and EUR 21,237.50 resp ectively.  
These amounts comprise ESF and National Funds combined.  
8. Duration of the subsidy  
As from April 2019, one single traineeship is on offer. During the scheme, the trainee must attend 
300 hours over a maximum period of 12 weeks, consisting of 282 ho urs as on -the-job training and 
18 hours as off -the-job training.   
Maximum extended duration which applies under special conditions or for particular groups: N/A as 
Traineeship Agreements cannot be extended.  
This scheme remained open until end July 2022.  
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of t he subsidy   
There are no effects on trade.  
47  WORK EXPOSURE SCHEME  
1. Title of the subsidy programme  
Work Exposure Scheme . 
2. Period covered by the notification  
Under the ESF2.201 – Enhancing Employability through Training Project, Jobsplus started running 
the Work Exposure Scheme in 2015. In 2016, Jobsplus re -launched the Work Exposure Scheme 
under the new ESF.01.001 – Training for Employment Project.  
The Work E xposure Scheme forms part of the  Training for Employment  project, which is co -financed 
by the European Social Fund 2014 -2020.  
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
The Work Exposure Scheme is intended to facilitate transition into employment by p roviding 
jobseekers with initial hands -on training that would help individuals obtain the knowledge, skills and 
competences required to find and retain employment. This scheme is designed to mirror 
contemporary labour market demand, whereby the job prefere nces of the jobseekers are matched 
with employers' requests. The Work Exposure Scheme consists of 240 hours of placement and 
trainees have a maximum period of 12 weeks to complete these hours. The on -the-job training takes 
place at the employer 's premises.  Throughout the scheme, trainees receive a training allowance for 
every hour attended.  The training allowance, which is paid by Jobsplus through an ESF funded 
project, is calculated on the National Minimum Wage.  
4. Background and authority for the subsidy (in cluding identification of the legislation under 
which it is granted )  
Jobsplus, Malta's Public Employment Service is responsible for administering the ESF funded project. G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  The general framework for this scheme was set by the Employment and Training Services  Act 
(Chapter 594). The training allowance payable to trainees is co -financed by the European Social 
Funds (80% through ESF and 20% through National Funds).  
5. Form of the subsidy (i.e., grant, loan, tax concession, etc. )  
Periodic payments.  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
During the participation in the scheme, trainees receive a training allowance payable by Jobsplus. 
As of April 2019, the Work Exposure Scheme has been re -designed to be made more flexible for 
participants. Participants have the fle xibility to manage the placement hours, in agreement with the 
employer and utilise them within a maximum period of 12 weeks. Hence participants are not bound 
to report for a minimum number of hours in any given week but can report to as much as they want 
to for up to a maximum of 40 hours weekly. In 2019 and 2020 the hourly rates stood at EUR 4.40 
and EUR 4.48 respectively.  To claim the reimbursement, trainees had to submit original attendance 
sheets that highlighted the time when they started and concluded the on -the-job training for each 
day. The attendance sheets had to be endorsed by the employer representative. Once the 
attendance sheets were verified and computation was confirmed correct, a reimbursement request 
form was generated and trainee was paid accordingly. Payments were issued on the 20th day of each 
month.  This process was revised, and the payments are now issued every fortnight.  
Those trainees who received social benefits prior to the scheme, continued to receive part of their 
benefits throughout the scheme since the remuneration triggered through the scheme was based on 
part-time employment instead of full -time employment.  
Following almost full absorption of funds for this scheme, for the months of May and June 2021, the 
eligibility criteria were changed.  The scheme was open for unemployed and inactive persons aged 
between 20 to 64 and who never participated in this scheme before . During year 2021 and 2022 the 
hourly rates stood at EUR 4.53 and EUR 4.57 respectively.  
7. Subsidy per unit  or in cases where this is not possible, the total amount or the annual amount 
budgeted for that subsidy   
In 2021 and 2022 the funds disbursed amounte d to EUR 1,533,628.50 and EUR 565,281.75 
respectively.  These amounts comprise ESF and National Funds combined.  
8. Duration of the subsidy  
− Typical duration planned for a participant: 12 weeks .  
− Maximum duration planned or allowed: 12 weeks .  
− Maximum extended  duration which applies under special conditions or for particular groups: 
N/A as Work Exposure Agreements cannot be extended.  
The duration of the work exposure is of 12 weeks and a participant is to report to the place of work 
for an average of 20 hours/ week. The on -the-job training will take place at the employer 's premises 
with whom the trainee is placed.   
This scheme will continue to be offered until July 2023.  
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of the subsidy  
There are no effects on trade.  
48   WORK PLACEMENT SCHEME  
1. Title of the subsidy programme  
Work Placement Scheme  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  2. Period covered by the notification  
The Work Placement Scheme started being offered in 2016 under the ESF.01.001 – Training for 
Employment Project .  
The Work Placement Scheme forms part of the Training for Employment project, which is co -financed 
by the European Social Fund 2014 -2020.  
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
The Work Placement Scheme provides training to participants followin g a course offered by Jobsplus, 
which includes a practical component. The Work Placement Scheme gives Jobsplus' trainees an 
opportunity to acquire both theoretical and practical training.  
4. Background and authority for the subsidy (including identification of the legislation under 
which it is granted )  
The training allowance payable to trainees is co -financed by the European Social Funds (80% 
through ESF and 20% through National Funds).  
Jobsplus, Malta's Public Employment Service, is responsible for adminis tering the ESF funded project.  
The general framework for this scheme was set by the Employment and Training Services Act 
(Chapter 594).  
5. Form of the subsidy (i.e., grant, loan, tax concession, etc. )  
Periodic payments.  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is prov ided  
− This scheme is available to persons who were/are unemployed or inactive. Other entry 
requirements may be requested depending on the chosen work/study area;  
− the on -the-job training takes place at the employer's premises with whom the trainee is 
placed. The  hours trainees have to perform are set by Jobsplus, although trainees are 
allowed a degree of attendance flexibility ranging approximately between 20 hours to 
40 hours per week.  
− Any employers from both the public and private entities, including NGOs are eligible to 
benefit from having participants in this scheme.  
7. Subsidy per unit  or in cases where this is not possible, the total amount or the annual amount 
budgeted for that subsidy   
In 2021 and 2022 the funds disbursed amounted to EUR 13,491.50 and EUR 27,260.10 respectively.  
These amounts comprise ESF and National Funds combined.  
8. Duration of the subsidy and/or any other time limits attached to it, including date of 
inception/commencement  
Each trainee has a maximum of 26 weeks to make up the following placement hours:  
− Care Workers for the Elderly: 100 hours  
− Care Workers for Perso ns with Disability: 71 hours  
− Childcare: 500 hours  
This scheme will continue to be offered until July 2022.  
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of the subsidy  
There are no effects on trade.  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  49  YOUTH GUARANTEE 2.0 SCHEME ESF.01.002  
1. Title of the subsidy programme  
Youth Guarantee 2.0 ESF.01.002/Garanzija għa ż-Żgħażagħ 2.0 FSE.01.002.  
2. Period covered by the notification  
The Youth Guarantee 2.0 Scheme started in 2015 till end of December 2022.  
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
The Youth Guarantee scheme (ESF.01.002 - Youth Guarantee 2.0) is an EU -funded 
project,developed for young people aged 15 to 24, and which consists of four education and 
employment related initiatives:  the NEET Activation Scheme II, SEC Revision Cla sses, MCAST 
Preventive Classes, and the ICT Courses.  
The scheme is targeted towards job seeking and inactive youth, including the long -term unemployed 
and youth detached from the labour market. This scheme targets the sustainable integration into 
the labou r market of young people, in particular those not in employment, education or training 
(NEETs), including young people at risk of social exclusion and young people from marginalised 
communities.  
The Youth Guarantee project focuses on both the current stock  of NEETs as well as those at risk of 
becoming NEETs or young unemployed through a mix of interventions tailor -made for the specific 
cohorts. The scheme provides training and personalised assistance to these youth.  
4. Background  and authority for the subsidy (including identification of the legislation under 
which it is granted ) 
The Youth Guarantee is an EU initiative and is a commitment by all Member States to ensure that 
all young people under the age of 25 years receive a good  quality offer of employment, continued 
education, apprenticeship or traineeship within a period of four months of becoming unemployed or 
leaving formal education. The Youth Guarantee is administered by Jobsplus and the source of finance 
comes from the Eur opean Social Fund 2014 -2020 programming period. The co -financing rate is that 
of 80% ESF funds while the remaining 20% via national funds.  
5. Form of the subsidy (i.e., grant, loan, tax concession, etc. ) 
NEET Activation Scheme II: provides young people (15 - 24 year -olds) who are not in education, 
employment or training (NEETs) with  personal/professional training, mentoring and constant 
support, thereby facilitating their transition from education to gainful employment, while 
consequently improving their emplo yment prospects, quality of life and social integration.  
ICT Courses: Each participant is offered 60 hours of ICT training at one of the available centres 
depending on the locality of each participant. Allowance is received on the condition that the 
participant attends 80% of tuition.  
SEC Revision Classes: Teachers are recruited by the Youth Guarantee Office to provide the tuition 
during the revision classes. Officers in charge are also engaged to develop and issue timetables and 
to act as mentors througho ut the duration of the summer initiative. Both teachers and coordinators 
are paid a fixed hourly rate. In addition to this, teachers are also paid for every hour of preparation 
work. Participants are not given an allowance.  
MCAST Preventive classes: Teach ers are recruited by MCAST to provide the tuition during the 
revision classes. One officer in charge is also engaged to develop and issue timetables and to act as 
a mentor throughout the duration of the summer initiative. Both teachers and coordinators are  paid 
a fixed hourly rate through ESF funds. Participants are not given an allowance.  
Financial transfers are distributed via periodic cash payments, lump -sum payments and  
reimbursements.  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
NEET Activation Scheme II: I n order to participate in the scheme youths have to be under 25 years 
of age at the month prior the issuing of the call for applications, resident in Malta or Gozo and 
unemployed or inactive. This initiative attempts to empower youth and re -integrate them into the 
education system or labour market.  
The programme consists of three phases: training, work exposure or further education and a 
traineeship component. In the first phase, every applicant receives approximately four weeks 
(80 hours) of life skills a nd industry related skills based on their profile. During phase 2, a participant 
is offered two options:  
− Option 1 - a work programme of maximum 240 hours with an employer based on the 
applicant 's skills and desires. This placement lasts approximately between 6 and 12 weeks 
(40 hoursper week or 20 hours per week)  
− Option 2 – if the applicant desires to further their education level, they can choose a course 
from an accredited institution such as MCAST or ITS and enrol in a course. In this c ase, the 
Youth Guarantee scheme would also cover a maximum of 240 hours.  
Upon completion of the work exposure phase, participants enter phase three which consists of a 
traineeship whereby participants will be able to put into practice what they have learnt during the 
previous two phases. A Traineeship is of 300 -hour duration over a maximum period of 12 weeks, 
consisting of 282 hours as on -the-job training and 18 hours as off -the-job training. The maximum 
number of placement hours in any given week is 40 hours. Throughout the scheme trainees receive 
a training allowance for every hour attended. The training allowance, which is paid by Jobsplus 
through an ESF funded project, is calculated on the National Minimum Wage.  
ICT Courses: To improve the digital competence and literacy, through the Youth Guarantee Scheme, 
ICT Courses are offered throughout the year. The aim is to help youths who are inactive or students 
who are in their last year of compulsory schooling who had indicated that they will not further  their 
education to improve their digital skills. The option for the participants to undergo either the Practical 
ICT course at level 2 or the ECDL at MQF Level 3, allows the project to reach a broader spectrum of 
students having diverse abilities, attitud es, behavioural issues and objectives. As a result, the 
eligibility criteria were widened to also include youths refered by the school guidance teams, and 
inactive youths aged between 15 -24 who are not in education, employment or training. Following 
comple tion of the ICT courses, youths are encouraged to either enrol in educational institution or 
participate in the NEET Activation Scheme II. Provided that each participant attends 80% of tuition, 
then he/she is paid at a rate of EUR 4.05 per hour. Hence a pa rticipant attending 80% or more would 
be paid the amount of EUR 243 at the end of the course.  
SEC Revision Classes: The SEC Revision Classes target Students between the age of 15 and 24, who 
obtained SEC results in the May exam session ranging from 6,7, un classified or absent  in at least 
one of the core subjects (Maltese, English, Maths, Physics and Biology) offered. As from 2017, 
Biology was introduced as one of the science subjects offered. Teachers are recruited by the Youth 
Guarantee Office to provide t he tuition during the revision classes. Officers in charge are also 
engaged to develop and issue timetables and to act as mentors throughout the duration of the 
summer initiative. Both teachers and coordinators are paid a fixed hourly rate of EUR 12.00. In  
addition to this, teachers are also paid EUR 12.00 for every hour of preparation work. Payments are 
issued once at the end of the initiative. Participants are not given an allowance.  
MCAST Preventive classes: Students who fail one of the exams through Lev el 1, Level 2 or Level 3 
of the respective course at the Malta College for Arts, Science and Technology (MCAST) are given 
the opportunity to receive remedial classes during the summer period. Teachers are recruited by 
MCAST to provide the tuition during th e revision classes. One officer in charge is also engaged to 
develop and issue timetables and to act as a mentor throughout the duration of the summer 
initiative. Teachers and coordinators are paid at an hourly rate of EUR 24.00 and EUR 12.00 
respectively through ESF funds. Payments are issued once at the end of the initiative. Participants 
are not given an allowance.  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  7. Subsidy per unit or in cases where this is not possible, the total amount or the annual amount 
budgeted for that subsidy  
For the year 2021 the total disbursements reached the amount of EUR 1,145,165 while for 2022 it 
amounted to EUR 1,595,695. These amounts comprise ESF and National Funds combined. " 
8. Duration of the subsidy  
Typical duration planned for a participant: 16 weeks . Maximum extended duration which applies 
under special conditions or for particular groups: 60 hours of training for ICT Course participants; 
5 weeks of tuition for the SEC Revision Classes and; 6 weeks of tuition for MCAST Remedial Classes.   
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of the subsidy  
There is no effect on trade.  
50  INTERCEPT PROJECT  
1. Title of the subsidy programme  
Intercept Project . 
2. Period covered by the notification  
Intercept Project was launched in 2021 and will run until December 2023 with a 29 -month duration.  
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
The project is aiming to motivate, mobilise and support persons not in employment, education or 
training (NEETs) through a Green Career Pathway which will lead to 300 trained youths in green 
skills in three countries, of which 100 participants will be trained in Malta. The pilot scheme in Malta 
was launched in September 2022 and training developed for NEETs has been delivered to the first 
group of participants. A s the greening of the economy will increase in importance, the scheme will 
boost the pipeline of specialised skills needed for the new green sectors, as well for modified roles 
in other key economic sectors. As a result, the initial research phase on NEETs  trends, needs and 
challenges together with the relevant stakeholders ' perspective on competences related to green 
jobs have been finalised. The research results contributed to the development of a training 
programme aimed to motivate and equip NEETs with skills on green jobs. Apart from that, the 
research served as a basis on the areas in which Public Employment Services staff will be trained to 
motivate youths to shape their green career pathways.  
4. Background and authority for the subsidy (including ident ification of the legislation under 
which it is granted ) 
Intercept benefits from EUR 2.18 million grant from Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway through the 
EEA and Norway Grants Fund for Youth Employment for all partner countries. The project is being 
admini stered by Jobsplus (Malta 's Public Employment Services).  
5. Form of the subsidy (i.e., grant, loan, tax concession, etc. ) 
The project carries out research on  young job seekers  and green companies,  offering a  training 
period  and paid internships  in order to increase job opportunities in the green sector.  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
INTERCEPT is aimed at unleashing the potential of NEETs aged 25 -29 in the green sector.  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  7. Subsidy per unit or in cases where this is not possible,  the total amount or the annual amount 
budgeted for that subsidy  
In 2021, Jobsplus benefited from a total of EUR 24,640.89 while in 2022 it benefited from a total of 
EUR 157.962.53. Funds cover the running of the project including surveys, procurement and 
communication amongst other components. It should be noted that disbursement for the training 
component of the project will be reported later in 2023 given that training commenced in Q4 of  2022.  
8. Duration of the subsidy  
Candidates are expected to participat e in 25 hous introductory training and 240 hours work 
placement experience in areas related to sustainable jobs.  
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of the subsidy  
There is no effect on trade.  
51  TRAINING PAYS SCHEME  
1. Title of the s ubsidy programme  
Training Pays Scheme (TPS) . 
2. Period covered by the notification  
Training Pays Scheme (TPS) started being offered in March 2017 under the ESF.01.001 – Training 
for Employment Project (under the ESF project the scheme is known as the Developing Skills 
Scheme), which is co -financed by the European Social Fund 2014 -2020 and will run till 2023.  
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
The TPS aims to assist individuals, who have completed compulsory schooling up to 64 years of age,  
to develop and/or improve their skills by participating in further off -the-job education and 
training.  The scheme offers assistance in the form of a training grant to aid participants with costs 
relating to training. This grant will be awarded to the indiv idual (trainee) after successful completion 
of their training.   
4. Background and authority for the subsidy (including identification of the legislation under 
which it is granted ) 
The scheme is administered by Jobsplus (Malta 's Public Employment Services) and the source of 
finance comes from the Operational Programme II – European Structural and Investment Funds 
2014-2020 The co -financing rate is that of 80% ESF funds while the remaining 20% via national 
funds.  
5. Form of the subsidy (i.e., grant, lo an, tax concession, etc. ) 
Grant shall be equivalent to 75% of the direct training cost excluding VAT but will not exceed the 
maximum amount of EUR 1,000. The minimum threshold for an application to be accepted will be 
set at EUR 100. Grant will be reimburs ed directly to the participant after successful completion of 
training and upon presentation of an invoice and an original receipt of payment together with a copy 
of an accredited certificate or transcript. Training costs shall mean Tuition fees, Training Material, 
Registration fees and Examination fees paid by the applicant.  
In June 2021, Jobsplus introduced the catalogue concept, which facilitated the application process 
for the individuals.  The catalogue includes training programmes from various training  service 
providers that are all eligible under the Training Pays Scheme.  Following this simplification, the 
applicants were allowed to submit their application until the last day of training, which excludes the 
assessment dates.  Besides this revision, Jobs plus also extended the eligible training programmes to 
awards at MQF/EQF levels 6 and 7 and non -accredited but industry recognised courses related to G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  the Aviation, ICT and Maritime Sectors.  The grant was also revised and as from October 2021, the 
capping f or courses up to MQF/EQF level 4 remained at EUR 1,000, while for the levels 5 to 7 and 
non-accredited courses the capping increased to EUR 3,000.  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
The Scheme is open to individuals who completed compulsory schooling to 64 years as per applicable 
law. In the case of persons aged between 16 and 24, they must not be participating under the Youth 
Guarantee NEET Activation Scheme II.  Persons who are applying for the TEFL and CELTA courses 
may not be employed as English Language Teachers at the time of application. As from 
18th November 2020, persons whose primary employment is self -employment are not eligible.   
Prospective participants may apply for any Training Programme as long as the course is:  
− not offered by Jobsplus;  
− offered by a licensed Training Institution (provider must be licensed by MFHEA  in case of 
accredited courses ); 
− pegged between MQF/EQF level 1 to 7 and non -accredited but industry recognised courses 
related to the Aviation, ICT and Maritime Sector s . 
Applications must be submitted by the last day of training (which does not include exams, 
assignments, and placements).  
− Minimum cost of training (excluding VAT) is EUR 100.  
Training courses offered by the company employing the applicant would not be eligible.  Only full 
qualifications and awards can be accepted.  Claims for a module which forms part of a qualification 
or award cannot be accepted.   
7. Subsidy per unit or in cases where this is not possible, the total amount or the annual amount 
budgeted for  that subsidy  
In 2021 and 2022 the funds disbursed amounted to EUR 577,533.04 and EUR 1,029,628.61 
respectively. These amounts comprise ESF and National Funds combined.  
8. Duration of the subsidy  
Training Pays Scheme started being offered in 2017 and it will continue to be offered until July 2023 
under the ESF.01.001 – Training for Employment Project.  
9. Trade effects of the susidy  
There were no effects on trade.  
52  INVESTING IN SKILLS SCHEME  
1. Title of the subsidy programme  
Investing in Skills Scheme (IIS) . 
2. Period covered by the notification  
This scheme falls under Malta 's Operational Programme II of the European Social Fund - 'Investing 
in human capital to create more opportunities and promote the well -being of society ' for the 
2014-2020 programming period. The last day of submission of applications for the Investing in Skills 
Scheme was the 31st March 2023 for training that has to be concluded by 30th June 2023.  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
The scheme was launched to promote the training of  persons actively participating in the Maltese 
Labour Market, with the aim to increase productivity and enhance adaptability.  
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
Jobsplus (Malta 's Public Employment Service) acts as the Intermediate Body to the Managin g 
Authority. The source of finance comes from the Operational Programme II – European Structural 
and Investment Funds 2014 -2020. The co -financing rate is that of 80% ESF funds while the 
remaining 20% via national funds.  
5. Form of the subsidy (i.e., grant, lo an, tax concession, etc. ) 
The scheme was demand driven, therefore the employer could have applied whenever a training 
need was identified within their entity. A grant is issued should the beneficiary meet the below 
eligibility criteria at application stage  and reimbursement stage:  
Eligibility Criteria:  
a. complete documentation . 
b. project implemented within/for the direct benefit of the eligible territory.  
c. incentive Effect:  Aid shall be considered to have an incentive effect if the Beneficiary has 
submitted a written application for the aid before work on the project or activity 
starts.Therefore, claim and proof of deliverables should be dated after the submission date 
of the IIS application.  
d. eligible Training Programme: Aid shall not be granted for  training which employers carry out 
to comply with National Mandatory Standards on training (in other words, it must be 
voluntary training as opposed to legally enforced training). Furthermore, information 
sessions and team building events are not eligible  under Investing in Skills since these are 
not considered as training.  
e. the trainee needs to be formally employed with the beneficiary during the training period. 
Apprentices or students engaged in vocational training with an apprenticeship or vocational 
training contract are not eligible.  
Furthermore, in the case of employers having an economic activity irrespective of their legal form:  
i. aid cannot be granted to any Undertaking found to be in difficulty.  Jobsplus will conduct 
checks to ensure that every applicant Undertaking is financially sound ; 
ii. falls within the definition of undertaking.  
Target Groups: Eligible applicants cover all employers having an economic activity irrespective of 
their legal form. These include partnerships, companies, family  businesses, associations, individual 
self-employed or other body of persons, NGOs and Social Partners.  NGOs and Social Partners not 
having an economic activity are also eligible to benefit from the scheme.  
6. Subsidy per unit or in cases where this is not po ssible, the total amount or the annual amount 
budgeted for that subsidy  
During 2021 a total of EUR 988,969.20 was disbursed and by end 2022, a further EUR 1,374,515.34 
was paid to employers.  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  Subsidy on Training Costs and Wage Costs:  
Training Type  Rate per Trainee  
per hour  
for Training Costs  Rate per Trainee  
per hour  
for Wage Costs** Capping  
Non Accredited Training  EUR 28.25  EUR 5.55 Up to 25 hours  
Accredited* Training  EUR 28.25  EUR 5.55 All contact hours  
* Training must be accredited  by the MFHEA (Malta Further and Higher Education Authority) , ITS (Institute of 
Tourism Studies), UOM (University of Malta) and MCAST (Malta College of Arts, Science &amp; 
Technology where  MQF/EQF Levels 1 - 5 will be accepted under Investing in Skills.  
** Refundable if training occurs during the normal working hours of the trainees. In the case of  Distance 
Learning  or e-Learning, wage costs cannot be reimbursed. Reimbursement will be calculated on the 
hours listed on certified attendance sheets, when using the Standard Scale of Unit Cost of EUR per 
trainee per hour. The subsidy for wage costs is eligible for training that is held as Classroom style 
Training and E -Learning Online Training (Live Sessions). Personnel costs will not  be eligible for E -
Learning, Online Training (Self -Led) or Distance Learning.  
Subsidy on Air Travel Costs:  
Travel costs will be based on the Erasmus Plus Grant Support for the mobility of staff:  
Applicable Rates According to Distance per Round Trip per Par ticipant  
100-499 km  EUR 180 
500-1,999 km  EUR 275 
2,000 – 2,999 km  EUR 360 
3,000 -3,999 km  EUR 530 
4,000 -7,999 km  EUR 820 
8,000 km or more  EUR 1,500  
Aid Intensity  
The following co -financing rate will be applied  to the total eligible costs:  
Entity Size  Aid Intensity  
Large Entities  50% 
Medium Entities  60% 
Small and Micro Entities  70% 
7. Duration of the subsidy  
The duration of the subsidy is not fixed. Duration can vary from a month or two to more months, 
depending on the course offered. The duration is calculated between the start and end date of 
Training and based on the actual training hours.  
8. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of the subsidy  
There are no effects on trade.  
53  ACCESS TO EMPLOYMENT (A2E) S CHEME  
1. Title of the subsidy programme  
Access to Employment (A2E) Scheme.  
2. Period covered by the notification  
The scheme started in 2015 and closed on 31st December 2022.  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
Access to Employment (A2E) Scheme provides employment aid to enterprises in Malta and Gozo to 
promote the recruitment of the more challenged amongst jobseekers and inactive persons. Through 
this scheme, funds are granted to employers for the recruitment of  disadvantaged, severly 
disadvantaged and disabled persons.  
This scheme facilitates the integration of jobseekers and inactive people in the labour market by:  
• enhancing opportunities to access the labour market and providing work experience to those 
furthest away from gainful occupation;  
• bridging the gap between labour market supply and demand;  
• increasing social cohesion.  
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
Jobsplus (Malta 's Public Employment Service) is acting as the Intermediate Body to the Manag ing 
Authority. This scheme is in line with the Commission Regulation (EU) No . 651/2014 of 17 June 2014 
declaring certain categories of aid compatible with the common market in application of Articles 107 
and 108 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the Euro pean Union (TFEU) (General Block Exemption 
Regulation, as amended by Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1084 of 14 June 2017 amending 
Regulation (EU) No . 651/2014 as regards aid for port and airport infrastructure, notification 
thresholds for aid for culture and heritage conservation and for aid for sport and multifunctional 
recreational infrastructures, and regional operating aid schemes for outermost regions and amending 
Regulation (EU) No . 702/2014 as regards the calculation of eligible costs, and by Commis sion 
Regulation (EU) 2020/972 of 2 July 2020 amending Regulation (EU) No . 1407/2013 as regards its 
prolongation and amending Regulation (EU) No . 651/2014 as regards its prolongation and relevant 
adjustments, and as may be subsequently amended6 (the General  Block Exemption Regulation).  
5. Form of the subsidy (i.e., grant, loan, tax concession, etc. ) 
The Scheme is managed on a demand driven basis meaning that employers can apply whenever 
they identify a recruitment need within the entity. Grant awards will be pr ovided on a first - come 
first-served basis and subject to calendar year total ceilings. The total available budget for this 
scheme was EUR 17 million.  In 2021 EUR 5,245,033 were committed to the scheme while in 2022 
EUR 2,938,564 were committed . The Scheme is co -financed by the European Social Fund (80%) 
and National Funds (20%).  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
Eligibility Criteria:  
Beneficiaries who are eligible for this scheme are all employers having an economic activity 
irrespective of their legal form. These include partnerships, companies, family businesses, 
associations, individual self -employed or other body of persons, NGOs a nd Social Partners, when 
recruiting new employees. Such definition implies that there must be at least one person in the 
employer 's organisation who is engaging a different person through the A2E Scheme. NGOs and 
Social Partners not having an economic acti vity are also eligible to benefit from the scheme.  
Jobsplus, as the intermediary body will approve the reimbursement if the beneficiary provides a 
correct claim for reimbursement, employment has actually taken place and employer declares that 
the expenditu re has actually been incurred. All applications for funding will be assessed against the 
eligibility criteria and will proceed for funding subject to availability of funds as well as subject that 
the employment is effected within the eligible period.  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  Target Groups:  
TARGET  
GROUP  CLIENT GROUP  DURATION 
OF 
ASSISTANCE  
DISADVANTAGED PERSONS  
1 Any person of age 24 and over who has been unemployed/inactive for the 
previous 6 months.  52 weeks  
2 Any unemployed person of age between 15 to 24 who previously participated 
and completed the Youth Guarantee/Work Exposure/Traineeship Scheme and is 
recruited for the first -time following the initiative of such initiatives.  52 weeks  
3 Any person who is living as a single adult who has one or more dependan ts and 
is not in full -time employment.  52 weeks  
4 Any person of age 24 and over who has not attained an upper secondary 
educational or vocational qualification (ISCED 3), who does not have a job.  52 weeks  
5 Any person older than 50 years who does  not have a job.  52 weeks  
SEVERELY DISADVANTAGED PERSONS  
6 Any person who has been unemployed/inactive for the previous 12 months 
during which he/she has not benefited from a traineeship with the Undertaking 
and who belongs to one of the categories (3) to (5).  104 weeks  
7 Any person of age 24 and over who has been unemployed/inactive for the 
previous 24 months during which he/she  has not benefited from a traineeship 
with the Undertaking.  104 weeks  
DISADVANTAGED PERSONS  
8 Any person who is a registered disabled person under national law.  156 week  
In 2021 the total funds disbursed amounted to EUR 2,596,472 while in 2022, EUR 4,707,284 funds 
were disbursed. These amounts comprise ESF and National Funds combined.  
7. Duration of the subsidy  
Employers who engage eligible individuals shall receive a subsidy of EUR 105.45 per (for full -time 
employment) or EUR 52.70 (for part -time employment) per new recruit engaged, for a period of 52 
weeks or 104 weeks, depending on the target group  (as per table above). In the case of registered 
disabled persons, a subsidy of EUR 158.20  (for full -time employment) or EUR 79.10 (for part -time 
employment) per week for a maximum of 156 weeks is provided.  
8. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of the subsidy  
There are no effects on trade.  
54  VASTE PROJECT  
1. Title of the subsidy programme  
Vocational Assessment, Support, Training and Employment (VASTE) Project . 
2. Period covered by the notification  
The Vaste Project started being offered since 2016 with over EUR 12 million budget financed by the 
European Social Fund under the Operational Programme II (2014 -2020) . 
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
The VASTE Project allows Jobsplus, the Maltese Public Employment Services, to develop training and 
different support measures to assist disabled persons and vulnerable individuals to find work and 
retain it.  
4. Background and authority for the subsidy (inclu ding identification of the legislation under 
which it is granted ) 
The project is developed and provided by Jobsplus and its partner the Lino Spiteri Fundation. The 
source of finance comes from the Operational Programme II – European Structural and Investme nt G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  Funds 2014 -2020. The co -financing rate is that of 80% ESF funds while the remaining 20% via 
national funds.  
5. Form of the subsidy (i.e., grant, loan, tax concession, etc. ) 
Participants benefiting from training or any other support measure under the VASTE project do not 
receive any form of subsidy or allowance. It is the service or support per se which is being subsidised 
through the European Structural Funds.  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
The VASTE Project is aimed to assist disabled persons and vulnerable inactive individuals, including 
former substance abusers, former prison inmates, social cases, long -term unemployed, women and 
migrants (refugees, asylum seekers, beneficiaries of temporary protection and beneficiaries of 
subsidiary protection).  The Programme provides a holisitc assessment and support to participants 
through multiple training options and professional services which aim to lead to several employment 
opportunities.  
The VASTE Programme is implemented in collaboration with the Lino Spiteri Foundation (LSF). The 
LSF deals specifically with unemployed disabled persons on a one -to-one basis through the provision 
of advisory assistance and job search support. LSF through its Corporate Relations (CR) Unit 
approaches and liaises with priva te enterprises and provides recruitment services, facilitates access 
to incentives and schemes available for this cohort of clients. Through their job carving approach, 
they strive to create employment opportunities for the jobseekers by analysing the ente rprise 
requirements and operation/workflow. The LSF CR executives identify elements and tasks from 
existing jobs in the enterprise to design a new job or a workflow that can integrate a person with 
disability or a mixed -ability group of persons with disabi lities. 
The overarching target of the project is to bring participants closer to the labour market through 
assessment, training, job coaching/mentoring and other professional services, which could lead to 
employment in the open market or self -employment. T he project is built around the needs of the 
vulnerable audience. The main activity of the project is the development a Vocational Multi -
Disciplinary Assessment Centre, to offer detailed assessment services to the targeted individuals. 
Such assessment helps  Jobsplus and the Lino Spiteri Foundation 's guidance service to tailor a 
personal action plan and employment exposure to targeted jobseekers. Multiple training options 
such as Pre -Employment Training, Basic ICT Training, Sheltered Employment Training and t he 
Headstart Programme are offered paired with the provision of Job Carving and Supported 
Employment (On -the-Job Coaching). More specialised services are also offered to vulnerable 
individuals through NGO agreements.  
7. Subsidy per unit or in cases where this is not possible, the total amount or the annual amount 
budgeted for that subsidy  
In 2021 the total VASTE disbursement amounted to EUR 2,152,565.79 while in 2022 the total VASTE 
disbursement amounted to EUR 1,373,905.29.  Total disbursement across all y ears under the VASTE 
as at end December 2022 amounted to EUR 11,039,786.67.  
8. Duration of the subsidy  
The Vaste Programme ESF.02.048 started being offered in 2016 and will continue to be offered until 
September 2023 under Operational Programme II (Cohesion P olicy 2014 – 2020).  
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of the subsidy  
There were no effects on trade.  
55  EMPLOYMENT SUPPORT SERVICES FOR MIGRANTS (AMIF N11.01)  
1. Title of the subsidy programme  
Employment Support Services for Migrants (AMIF n11.01) . G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  2. Period covered by the notification  
The AMIF project started being offered since 2017 under the Asylum, Migration, Integration Fund. 
The project has been extended till June 2023.  
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
In line with objective 1 of AMIF 's National Programme, asylum, migrants entitled to international 
protection will be integrated through "accommodation at open centres. The centres will encourage 
the integration process and residents will be assisted to move o ut to independent accommodation 
within 12 months " (National Programme AMIF, p.8). Employment is one of the key elements for this 
integration process to take place, and which will allow the migrants to move to independent 
accommodation. Jobsplus services of fered to migrants through the AMIF 11.01 project  - Supported 
Employment Services for Migrants project focuses on increasing the employability of the migrant 
jobseekers through the provision of professional guidance, upskilling and other professional suppor t 
services.  These services will not be limited to the development of a personalised action plan for 
employment, but will go beyond in order to ensure a more holistic integration strategy involving also 
the provision of tailor made training.  
4. Background and authority for the subsidy (including identification of the legislation under 
which it is granted ) 
The Employment Support Services for Migrants is co -financed by 75% of EU funds under the  Asylum, 
Migration and Integration Fund and 25% of national funds and is administered by Jobsplus (Malta 's 
Public Employment Services).  
5. Form of the subsidy (i.e., grant, loan, tax concession, etc. ) 
Eligible migrants enrolled on language training Basic EN and/or Basic MT for employment will receive 
a training allowance of EUR 4.50/hr of attendance which will be deposited in their financial account. 
Refugees, migrants granted international protection (i.e. subsidiary or humanitarian protection), 
beneficiaries of temporary protection and asylum seekers are eligible. Migrants part icipating in a 
work exposure programme receive an allowance of EUR 4.57/hr for a maximum of 120 hours.  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
The project targets asylum seekers, refugees, individuals granted subsidiary or humanitarian 
protection, benefici aries of temporary protection and individuals having Specific Residence 
Authorisation (SRA). Under the project, Jobsplus aims to enhance two services which facilitate the  
integration of migrants to employment. These consist of the following:  
1) Guidance Servi ces for Migrants – through outreach services, employment guidance, basic 
training and additional support to migrants including interpreters and cultural mediators, as 
well as the provision of adequate training of staff in contact with migrants.  
2) Job Broker age Office – which is an office dedicated specifically to facilitating ad hoc  
short-term placement of migrants on work exposure. Following this, migrants jobseekers 
can be  offered  a Work Exposure. The work exposure creates a pathway towards integration 
of migrant workers in the formal economy following participation in the Job Brokerage 
scheme or language training. It also helps them obtain the necessary skills and competences 
to enter and retain employment. It will also provide the migrant or employer the necessary 
timeframe to apply for an employment licence. The duration is 120 hours  and the migrant 
receives an allowance of EUR 4.57/hr.  
The funds provided for the project allow for the general marketing of the services to both migrants 
and employers and fo r the translation of relevant documents is Arabic, Tigrinian, Eritrean and 
Somali.  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.19  
 
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  Through the AMIF, Jobsplus provides the following training courses to assist migrants in entering 
gainful employment and achieve integration in the Maltese society.  
• Langua ge training - Basic EN for employment  
• Language training - Basic MT for employment  
As indicated in section 5 eligible miigrants enrolled on language training Basic EN and/or Basic MT 
for employment will receive a training allowance of EUR 4.50/hr of attendance which will be 
deposited in their financial account.  
7. Subsidy per unit or in cases where this is not possible, the total amount or the annual amount 
budgeted for that subsidy  
In 2021, the funds disbursed for the project amounted to EUR 41,038.16 while in 2022 the funds 
disbursed was of EUR 262,535.99.  
8. Duration of the subsidy  
The funds will be made available till June 2023.  
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of the subsidy  
There were no effects on trade.  
 
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