PRESS RELEASE BY THE MINISTRY FOR THE ECONOMY, ENTERPRISE AND STRATEGIC PROJECTS Updated Micro Invest scheme introduces targeted support for employee wage increases

The Ministry for the Economy, Enterprise and Strategic Projects has announced the updated Micro Invest scheme, which includes specific support measures linked to wage increases for employees. The new scheme, which will operate between 2026 and 2030, has been designed to assist small businesses, self-employed individuals, and, for the first time, social enterprises.

The scheme introduces targeted support for employees through a fiscal top-up linked to wage increases implemented in 2026 and 2027. This support will apply to employees who have been continuously employed with the same company for more than four years and whose salaries have increased by at least 3% annually. The support will amount to a maximum annual benefit per employee of €780 for enterprises based in Malta and €1,020 for enterprises based in Gozo.

In his address, the Minister for the Economy, Enterprise and Strategic Projects, Silvio Schembri, stated that small and medium-sized enterprises account for 90% of all businesses in Malta and are a primary source of income and employment for many families.

“Today, with a strong economy, we are in a position to provide greater support to businesses so they can continue investing in their operations. We want the economic growth we are generating as a country to be felt by everyone, while continuing to improve productivity. I am particularly satisfied that this new scheme places a strong emphasis on employees and wage increases. As a country, workers are our greatest resource, and I understand the challenges businesses face in retaining employees. This measure, which supports wage growth, also serves as an incentive for employee retention," said Minister Schembri.

Meanwhile, the Chief Executive Officer of Malta Enterprise, George Gregory, stated, “The updated Micro Invest scheme reflects our ongoing commitment to supporting businesses across Malta and Gozo. Over the past three years, more than 14,000 applications have been approved, with over €140 million in assistance provided to enterprises. This renewed scheme has been designed to better address the evolving needs of today's businesses by helping them invest, innovate, and grow sustainably."