KPMG in Malta, through its Public Sector and EU Advisory team, and in collaboration with the Malta Chamber of SMEs, recently organised two information sessions focused on EU funding and domestic incentives. The sessions brought together local SMEs and growing businesses, providing a practical overview of the opportunities available to them.
Introduction and takeaways from the audience
The sessions were attended by around 80 participants from a wide range of sectors, including professional services, retail, education, pharma and healthcare, hospitality, and manufacturing.
Opening remarks were delivered by KPMG Senior Partner David Pace and the Malta Chamber of SMEs’ Head of EU Affairs and Communications, Fabian Demicoli. This was followed by a high-level overview of how EU funding and incentives operate, delivered by Karl Aquilina, Associate Director within KPMG’s Public Sector and EU Advisory team. These were followed by an interactive polling session.
Covering the fundamentals
KPMG recognises that EU funding and incentives involve terminology that is not always familiar to business owners. Even where terms such as de minimis, SME definition and aid intensity are known, their practical implications are not always clear when planning an application.
Building on feedback received during last year’s sessions, a presentation delivered by Manager Marija Elena Borg and Advisor Martina Spiteri, was dedicated to explaining these core concepts, including how they may impact an applicant’s eligibility.
Overview of available EU grant schemes
Manager Dylan Felice delivered a presentation on the Business Enhance Grant Schemes, outlining key eligibility requirements, funding rules, and how these schemes can support initiatives such as digital transformation, investment in new equipment, and service expansion.
The importance of project eligibility checks and early planning was emphasised throughout. Case studies were also used to demonstrate how grant schemes apply in practice and to help attendees understand which investments may be eligible, and under which circumstances.
Karl Aquilina then provided an overview of advisory grant schemes currently available, including those offering cash grants to SMEs seeking advisory support to invest in strategies for marketing, internationalisation, and recognised standards or awards.
Panel discussion, featuring KPMG Digital Solutions and Deal Advisory
Delivering a high-quality, and ultimately successful funding application requires both technical understanding and knowledge on the EU funding process in practice. The EU Advisory team therefore works closely with other teams across KPMG in Malta to support clients throughout the full lifecycle of their project. Through a panel discussion, the spotlight was put on two KPMG teams in particular: Digital Solutions, represented by Digital Solutions Partner Marco Vassallo and Business Process Automation Lead Alexia Distefano, and Deal Advisory Services Senior Manager Kyle Bonello.
Overview of domestic incentives, featuring an intervention by Malta Enterprise
Tax Partner Doreen Fenech and Associate Director Faye Gauci Grech presented an overview of domestic incentives administered by Malta Enterprise. These incentives are available across a broad range of industries and can support initiatives including new establishments, extensions, diversification, research and development, and skills development, amongst others.
The session also featured an intervention by Malta Enterprise’s Head of the Sustainable Industrial Development Office, Nadia Grech, who presented a selection of sustainability incentives applicable to both SMEs and larger businesses.
Connecting with our advisors
The sessions concluded with a networking opportunity, enabling participants to speak directly with KPMG in Malta advisors and other business representatives.
With the right experience and specialist expertise, KPMG in Malta supports clients in navigating both EU funding and domestic incentives opportunities, ensuring the most strategic fit for their investment plans.
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