Small businesses, self-employed workers and social enterprises will benefit from an updated Micro Invest scheme, which will now include targeted support linked directly to wage increases for employees.

The renewed scheme, announced by the Ministry for the Economy, Enterprise and Strategic Projects, will operate between 2026 and 2030 and is designed to help businesses continue investing, innovating and growing sustainably. For the first time, the scheme will also be extended to social enterprises

A key feature of the updated scheme is a fiscal top-up for businesses that increase wages in 2026 and 2027. The support will apply to employees who have been continuously employed with the same company for more than four years and whose salary increases by at least 3% annually.

The maximum annual benefit per employee will amount to €780 for enterprises based in Malta and €1,020 for enterprises based in Gozo.

Economy Minister Silvio Schembri said small and medium-sized enterprises make up 90% of all businesses in Malta and remain a primary source of income and employment for many families.

He said that, thanks to a strong economy, Government is in a position to provide greater support to businesses so they can keep investing in their operations, while ensuring that economic growth is felt more widely.

Minister Schembri welcomed the fact that the updated scheme places stronger emphasis on employees and wage increases. He said workers are the country’s greatest resource, while acknowledging the challenges businesses face in retaining employees.

By supporting wage growth, the measure also encourages employee retention, helping businesses keep experienced workers while rewarding loyalty and productivity.

Over the past three years, more than 14,000 applications were approved under Micro Invest, with over €140 million in assistance provided to enterprises.

The renewed scheme therefore builds on a proven support mechanism, while adapting it to today’s business needs: helping enterprises invest, grow and improve conditions for their workers.