EU Funding Archives - EMCS

A New 15% Final Income Tax Introduced in Malta

Faye Mallia — Wed, 15 Oct 2025 10:49:43 +0000

On 2 September 2025, Malta issued Legal Notice 188 of 2025, introducing a 15% final income tax option the Final Income Tax Without Imputation Regulations, 2025.

Under these new Regulations, any body of persons qualifying as a company or opting to be treated as a company under the Income Tax Act, may, as from basis year 2024 (year of assessment 2025), opt to have the chargeable income taxed at the rate of 15% instead of being taxed under the standard provisions of the Income Tax Act. The 15% tax under these regulations is final and not refundable or creditable.

Any profits taxed in terms of these new Regulations are allocated to the Final Tax Account (‘FTA’), and any distributions do not entitle the shareholder to claim any tax refunds.

The rules prescribe that any such tax charged under these rules shall not be lower than the effective Malta income tax otherwise due under the standard full imputation tax systems, including the payment of refunds.

In order to be subject to the final tax of 15%, a company must make an election through the submission of the form, as made available through the Malta Tax and Customs Administration (MTCA) website, to the MTCA, by the 28^th of November, 2025. Once such an election is made, the 15% final tax will apply for a minimum period of five consecutive years, after which the taxpayer may request to be taxed under standard provisions of the Income Tax Act.

Get in touch

If you would like to understand how these changes may affect your business and whether the 15% election is right for you, feel free to reach out to us for further guidance.

Email us

The post A New 15% Final Income Tax Introduced in Malta appeared first on EMCS.

EU Funds for Gozo and the Xlokk Region of Malta: up to 80% Co-financing

Faye Mallia — Tue, 16 Sep 2025 19:49:09 +0000

Which projects are eligible to funding?

Are you a small business, voluntary organisation, local council, or school in Gozo or the Xlokk region of Malta looking for EU funding? The LEADER Programme is now open, offering between €5,000 and €50,000 to support projects that foster sustainable development, boost the local economy, and safeguard cultural heritage in rural areas of Malta and Gozo. Funding covers up to 80% of eligible costs, so now is the time to turn your idea into reality.

Funding is available under specific measures managed by two Local Action Groups (LAGs):

Gozo Action Group Foundation – covering the entire island of Gozo.

GAL Xlokk Foundation – covering the southeast rural localities of Malta.

Funding Opportunities in Gozo

Currently, funding is available under the following measures:

Gozo Action Group Foundation (Gozo only)

Keeping Gozo’s Culture and Traditions Alive
Support for cultural events, traditional practices, and community activities that preserve Gozo’s heritage.

Funding: €5,000 – €50,000

Empowering Communities as Environmental Stewards
Support for projects tackling climate change, biodiversity, waste management, and water conservation.

Funding: €15,000 – €50,000

Promoting Health and Sustainable Lifestyles
Projects that improve physical and mental wellbeing, healthy eating, and community-friendly open spaces.

Funding: €15,000 – €50,000

Funding Opportunities in Xlokk Region

GAL Xlokk Foundation

Improving the Environment of the Territory
Support for projects that carry out environmental improvements in the territory to enhance the area’s landscape and promote the well-being of its residents.

Funding: €20,000 - €49,000

Enhancement of Social and Rural Infrastructure
Support for projects that enhance the social character of the communities and the rural infrastructure of the localities.

Funding: Up to a maximum of €30,518

Marketing of the Territory
Support for businesses and organisations to expand reach through branding, digital marketing, and new market access.

Funding: €10,000 – €15,000 (individual projects) / up to €45,000 (collaborative projects)

Education and Research
Support for community education, training, and research in agriculture and cultural heritage.

Funding: €10,000 – €15,000 (education) / up to €26,000 (combined education & research)

Who Can Apply?

Eligible applicants include:

Local and Regional Councils
Voluntary Organisations (registered and compliant)
SMEs and micro-enterprises
Schools and educational institutions
Private individuals (in certain measures)

Projects must take place within the rural localities defined by the Gozo Action Group Foundation or the Gal Xlokk Foundation.

Deadlines & Support

Funds are awarded on a rolling basis every two months until the budget is fully used. This means early applications stand a better chance of securing funding.

At EMCS, our EU Advisory team is here to help you design, prepare, and submit a strong application. From aligning your project with programme objectives to managing the process, we make sure your ideas stand out and succeed.

Contact Funding Advisory Services

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EMCS Secures EU Funding for the Restoration of the Parish Church of St Leonard in Ħal Kirkop

Faye Mallia — Wed, 30 Jul 2025 09:46:00 +0000

EMCS is proud to have played a key role in securing EU funding for the conservation and restoration project of the historic Parish Church of St Leonard Abbot in Ħal Kirkop. The project, valued at approximately €100,000, was co-financed through the European Union, with 80% of the funds allocated under the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) 2014–2023.

The restoration project covered the church's domes, bell towers, main façade, and side elevations, all of which were in need of conservation due to environmental exposure and natural wear over the centuries. EMCS provided advisory and consultancy services throughout the process, ensuring that the project aligned with EU funding criteria while respecting both the architectural integrity and cultural heritage of the building.

The inauguration ceremony was held on 29 July 2025 and was officiated by Auxiliary Bishop Joseph Galea-Curmi and Minister for EU Funds Stefan Zrinzo Azzopardi. Also in attendance were Michael Pace Ross, Administrative Secretary of the Archdiocese of Malta; Dun Martin Cardona, Parish Priest of Ħal Kirkop; and representatives from the project team, including EMCS.

This project serves as a testament to EMCS’s commitment to supporting the preservation of Malta’s cultural and religious heritage by helping clients access EU funds for high-impact community projects. The conservation work restored the natural beauty of the Maltese stone and enhanced the aesthetic and historical significance of the church, a central feature of the local village square.

Auxiliary Bishop Galea-Curmi praised the initiative, highlighting the Church’s responsibility to safeguard cultural patrimony for current and future generations. Minister Zrinzo Azzopardi echoed these sentiments, stating that such projects demonstrate how EU funding can be invested in a way that truly benefits local communities and strengthens national identity.

EMCS is honoured to have contributed to the successful realisation of this project and remains dedicated to empowering public and private entities to tap into EU opportunities that deliver long-term value for society.

Request a meeting to tap into EU funds

The restored Parish Church of St Leonard Abbot in Ħal Kirkop, a €100,000 conservation project co-financed with 80% EU funding under the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) 2014–2023.

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Your Funding Partner: How EMCS Helps Businesses Access & Manage Financing Opportunities

Faye Mallia — Sat, 01 Mar 2025 08:34:00 +0000

In today's competitive business landscape, securing financial support through funding schemes can be a game-changer for companies looking to expand, innovate, or improve their operations. Government and the European Union offer various funding opportunities that can help businesses achieve their goals without bearing the full financial burden alone.

EMCS is here to help you navigate the application process, secure the best funding options, and manage your project efficiently to maximize success.

The Business Enhance Schemes 2025 are key EU funding initiatives designed to support businesses in Malta by providing financial assistance for start-ups and SMEs’growth and digital transformation. Co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) 2021-2027, these schemes offer grants to help small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) invest in key areas such as digitalization processes and investments in equipment and machinery. With funding covering up to €128,400 and co-financing rates reaching up to 50% (+10% for Gozo businesses) for certain investments, the schemes aim to boost competitiveness and long-term sustainability. Businesses can benefit from structured financial aid with cut-off dates every two weeks, ensuring continuous access to support.

Large enterprises also have the opportunity to benefit from support for digital investment projects, which opportunity is only available till May 2025.

Besides EU funding, other opportunities exist through support measures managed by Malta Enterprise, where companies (large and SMEs) can benefit from cash grants or tax credits, or a combination of both, for investment projects covering up to €300,000 and a maximum support rate of 75%. Other support covers rental subsidies, skills development and smart and sustainable investments, amongst others.

Success Stories: Businesses Benefiting from EMCS Support

Many companies have already benefitted from EU funding and Malta Enterprise support with EMCS guiding them every step of the way.

Marco Cauchi, General Manager, Federated Mills shared his experience:

‘The EMCS team was just what we needed to access national funding support for a large project like ours. The team offered a brilliant process, fact-based analysis, and a personal commitment which resulted in success. We recommend them for one simple reason: their recommendations and experience on funding is unmatched.’

Melvin Farrugia, Finance & Administration Manger, Multivend, also praised the support provided:

‘We would like to thank EMCS, whose invaluable support and guidance throughout the applications processed played a crucial role in securing the necessary funds …. Their professional input enabled us to make significant investments ….’

Carmen Agius, IT Manager, Frank Salt Real Estate:

‘EMCS’ commitment to quality and dedication to our success was evident at every stage, and we are extremely satisfied with the results. The team at EMCS demonstrated extensive knowledge and a deep understanding of the various schemes we tapped into…. ‘

EMCS is a trusted partner for several local businesses, helping them secure the best funding opportunities to support your growth and success. We pursue the entire process — from identifying the most suitable funding scheme to preparing and submitting your application. Once the funding for your business is secured, our team ensures smooth project management, helping you stay compliant and maximize the benefits of your grant. To successfully secure funding, we will follow you through these steps:

Identify Your Business Needs: Determine the areas eligible for financial support.
Research Available Schemes: Explore funding opportunities relevant to your industry and objectives.
Assess Eligibility Criteria: Ensure your company meets the requirements before applying.
Prepare a Strong Application: Develop a compelling application justifying the need for the investment, highlighting growth potential, expected outcomes, and financial budgets.
Engage with Funding Bodies: Establish relationships with relevant organisations and funding bodies.
Monitor and Comply: Once funding is secured, we track its utilisation and adhere to reporting requirements.

Led by Alison Mizzi, Director EU Advisory, our team will navigate the complexities of funding, while you can focus on growing and innovating your business. Whether you're a start-up or an established business, EMCS is here to help you unlock new opportunities and achieve long-term success.

Get in touch, let’s apply now - funding@emcs.com.mt

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