• Xjenza Malta collaborated with the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT) to introduce a dedicated Maltese category within the 2026 EIT Jumpstarter Call, creating new opportunities for local idea holders and start-ups to participate in one of Europe’s leading pre-accelerator initiatives. The programme supports early-stage innovators in transforming innovative ideas into viable business concepts through hands-on training, mentorship, and exposure to cross-border networks. By providing tailored support and practical guidance, the EIT Jumpstarter programme helps participants refine their ideas, strengthen their entrepreneurial capabilities, and broader their horizons towards commercialisation.
• The Prototype to Minimum Viable Product (P2M) Programme is designed to assist start-ups and SMEs in advancing prototypes towards market-ready minimum viable products. The programme provides financial and market support to help beneficiaries refine their technologies, test market feasibility, and strengthen product development processes. Through a number of small grants, P2M supports concept validation and market entry on the basis of productivity, achievement of KPIs and promising results. At the end of the programme, beneficiaries will be allowed to pitch their final product.
• The EIT Regional Innovation Booster (EIT RIB) Malta Edition is a flagship initiative launched through a collaboration between Xjenza Malta and the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT) to support high-potential Maltese start-ups and SMEs with market-ready solutions. Targeting ventures with a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of 7 or higher, the programme provides a structured pathway for businesses seeking to expand beyond local markets and strengthen their commercial growth potential. Through access to international expertise, tailored support from an EIT RIB Buddy, investor exposure, and financial assistance of up to €90,000, beneficiaries are guided through three structured stages focused on market readiness, commercial execution, and international exposure. The programme also facilitates access to European innovation ecosystems, strategic partners, and new market opportunities, supporting Maltese innovators in scaling across selected European markets and strengthening their internationalisation efforts.
• The Go To Market Loan Assistance Programme (GTM LA) is a blended finance initiative developed through a collaboration between Xjenza Malta and the Malta Development Bank (MDB) to support innovative SMEs and start-ups approaching market deployment. Operating under the MDB’s SME Guarantee Scheme (SGS), the programme helps enterprises address key financial barriers often faced during commercialisation, including limited collateral, high financing costs, and restricted access to credit. Through a combination of interest rate subsidies, support for up-front contribution requirements, and collateral assistance, the programme facilitates access to finance for innovators with technologies at advanced Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs). By easing financial pressures linked to market entry and scale-up activities, the GTM LA programme strengthens the transition from research and development towards sustainable commercial activity within the local and European innovation ecosystem.

Please visit the above links to view application deadline.

An information session for the EIT Regional Innovation Booster (EIT RIB) Malta Edition will be held online on 15 June 2026. If you are interested in attending, you may register here: https://lnkd.in/dNnnGmQR.

For more information on the Go To Market Programme, you may contact Ms. Mariah Vella on mariah.vella.5@gov.mt or Mr. Kyle Bonnici on kyle.bonnici.4@gov.mt

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