Deadline Date: July 17, 2026
The Internationalisation Strategy for SMEs Grant Scheme is inviting applications to support SMEs in Malta in developing strategies for entering and expanding into international markets.
The focus areas include internationalisation strategy development, market analysis, global business opportunities, feasibility assessment, market entry strategy, country-specific planning, marketing and sales strategy, financial planning, operational planning, risk analysis, mitigation, monitoring, and evaluation.
The Internationalisation Strategy scheme is designed to support SMEs through non-repayable grants that part-finance the cost of external consultancy services. These services help enterprises develop structured strategies to expand into international markets and improve competitiveness.
The strategy is divided into two parts. The first focuses on analysing global opportunities, market conditions, feasibility, and identifying suitable target markets. The second focuses on detailed country-specific planning, including entry strategies, marketing approaches, and operational and financial planning.
The scheme aims to strengthen SME competitiveness by supporting structured international expansion planning. It encourages businesses to explore new markets and develop strategies that improve long-term sustainability and growth.
This grant scheme falls under Policy Objective 1 of the SFC2021 Programme 2021–2027, which promotes a more competitive and smarter Europe through innovation, entrepreneurship, and smart economic transformation. It also supports sustainable growth and job creation in SMEs through productive investments.
The scheme will remain active until 31 December 2026, subject to available funding. The total budget allocated is €500,000, with a maximum grant of €20,000 per undertaking.
Eligible applicants include micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises engaged in economic activity, subject to legal requirements. For Part 1 applications, enterprises must demonstrate at least one year of active trading and comply with all registration requirements.
For more information, visit FONDI.eu.
