SME Enhance
- ray2596
- May 6
- 2 min read
Updated: Jul 31
Business success relies on the enterprise’s ability to invest in expansion, diversification, operational innovation, and initial investments.
This scheme shall support Undertakings through non-repayable Grants to part-finance their investments.
Scheme Summary
The minimum grant under this scheme is €10,000 while the maximum grant for eligible actions is of €128,400, including an additional 7% flat rate to cover indirect costs associated with the investments.
Projects must be concluded within 24 months from signing of the grant agreement, which is signed following project approval. All investments must be completed no later than 30th June 2029.
De-Minimis Regulation:
Co-finances up to 50% of eligible costs in Malta and 60% in Gozo. When calculating De-Minimis aid received, undertakings must keep in mind that a single undertaking may receive up to €300,000 in de minimis aid over three years.
GBER for Start-Ups (Micro and Small Enterprises within 5 years of registration):
Co-finances up to 60% of eligible costs in Malta and 70% in Gozo, with aid capped under the GBER regime.
GBER Investment Aid:
Applications under Investment Aid are eligible for co-financing in line with GBER aid intensities. Aid intensity varies based on undertaking size and location.
Eligible Costs
Eligible enterprises will receive support through this grant scheme to finance:
1. Equipment and Machinery
Eligible costs include equipment and machinery as defined in the scheme guidance notes. Training costs are also eligible, provided they relate directly to the use of the purchased item and are included in its price from the same supplier. The Beneficiary is responsible for maintaining the equipment/machinery in operational condition for a minimum of three years after receiving the final payment of the grant.
2. Ancillary items (capped at 10% of the eligible cost under Equipment and Machinery)
Such items are subject to a maximum grant amount of €10,000. These include the purchase of ancillary items related to the project's main activity. These items qualify as ‘Equipment and Machinery’ as defined in the scheme guidance notes and are relevant to the applicant's operations and/or economic activity.
For subscription-based software, the cost of a two-year subscription will be recognised as an eligible expense.
3. Lease of Private Operational Premises (capped at 10%, 20% for start-ups, of the eligible cost under Equipment and Machinery).
Costs related to the leasing of privately owned operational premises necessary for the Undertaking’s activities, for a period of two years.
4. Flat Rate
A flat rate of 7% may be applied to cover indirect costs associated with the investment.
Application Process
The scheme will operate on a demand-driven basis, with the IB issuing periodic open/ rolling calls for applications. Applications will be assessed after each cut-off date, and those meeting at least 50% of the selection criteria will be awarded, subject to budget availability.
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