Malta: Top Startups and Venture Capital Funds

According to a survey of 21 European Union countries, Malta ranks as the fourth best destination for innovative startups – not bad for a small island nation with a population of around 550,000.

Its ecosystem for startups is rapidly advancing, with more than 300 hopefuls launched in the past five years.

This expansion has contributed more than €1 billion to the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) and generated approximately 20,000 new jobs.

Since joining the European Union (EU) in 2004, Malta has also become a popular hub for tourism, investment and finance, attracting those interested in relocating, particularly entrepreneurs and crypto enthusiasts.

The capital, Valletta, is the smallest city in the EU, with a population of just over 5,000, but despite its size, the nation has a rich Mediterranean culture, political and economic stability and a per capita GDP of over €44,000 in 2024.

Dubbed the ‘Blockchain Island’, Malta is a cryptocurrency hub with a favourable legal framework for blockchain and digital assets.

There’s a thriving startup scene, and if you like the idea of being part of it, we can help. At Nomad Capitalist, we’ve worked with over 2,000 clients to acquire a second residency or citizenship in a jurisdiction that best suits their personal and entrepreneurial lifestyles. 

Benefits of Raising Venture Capital in Malta

Maltese-founded startups have seen significant growth in recent years. In 2024, Malta recorded one of its most active years for venture capital investment, demonstrating increasing investor confidence.

The local startup ecosystem is evolving beyond iGaming, though challenges like its small market and inexperienced investment community remain.

Strong Startup and Innovation Ecosystem

Malta Enterprise (ME) offers loans up to €750,000 and matched funding through the Malta Venture Capital Fund and Business Angel Seed Investment Support scheme.

Between 2020 and 2022, ME approved 68 projects under its Business START scheme, granting around €2.5 million in finance, while 51 projects received €21 million in advances for developed startups and scale-ups through startup finance. 

Government Support and Tax Incentives

In 2024, Malta’s startup ecosystem received a boost with the opening of Venture Capital offices in Sliema by the Minister for the Economy, Enterprise and Strategic Projects, Silvio Schembri.

This follows the government’s €10 million allocation for a venture capital fund to support innovative startups.

The fund marks a significant step forward in Malta’s goal of becoming a regional innovation hub and underlines the government’s commitment. 

Additionally, Malta’s government-backed Seed Fund provides grants to help turn innovation into reality.

With strategic investments and progressive policies, Malta is poised for significant growth in the global tech landscape. 

Favourable Tax Environment

If you qualify, you can live in Malta under one of the residency programs highlighted below and benefit from favourable tax treatment. 

This includes no tax on foreign-sourced income unless it’s remitted to the country, in which case it’s taxed at 15%.

There is no inheritance tax, and foreign-sourced capital gains are not taxed if not remitted there.

Malta Residence Programs

Entrepreneurs seeking Maltese residency have plenty of options if they are willing to invest. 

Malta Permanent Residence Program (MPRP).

Launched in April 2021, the MPRP offers permanent residence for non-EU nationals and their families.

It offers benefits such as visa-free travel within the Schengen area and the right to permanently live in Malta, with no minimum stay requirement.

This program also allows for potential Maltese citizenship after six years for those who can prove genuine ties to Malta.

Malta Residence Program (TRP)

If you don’t qualify for the Malta Global Residence Program as an EEA or EU national, you can apply for the TRP, which offers permanent residence by investment.

Malta Global Residence Program (GRP)

Launched in 2013, the GRP also allows non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals to live in Malta. 

However, it comes with a minimum stay requirement, and successful applicants must spend less than 183 days outside the country.

The GRP and TRP plans provide a flat minimum tax rate, a 15% rate on remitted foreign income and a maximum of 35% on local income.

In all cases, you will need to show substantial assets to claim Maltese residence and be willing to buy or rent a property there. Have a look at our ultimate guide to Malta Residency for more information. 

Top Venture Capital Funds in Malta

Here is our selection of standout venture capital firms spanning various sectors in Malta.

1. Accel

Accel is a global venture capital firm based in California and present in Malta. It invests in high-growth startups at seed, early and growth stages. 

The firm seeks entrepreneurs with 5–10 years of industry experience and targets investments from €300,000 to €5 million.

Key facts:

• Year of Inception: 2017
• Stage Focus: Series A, Series B, Series C
• Sector Focus: Software, SaaS, Information Technology.
• Notable Portfolio Companies: Nuitée, FirstClub, RapidCanvas. 

2. Hiro Capital

Hiro Capital is a Venture Capital fund based in Luxembourg and London. It focuses on early-stage investments in innovative companies within the games, esports and digital sports sectors across Europe and the UK.

The firm typically invests at the post-seed Series A and B stages, with an investment range of around €500,000. 

In addition to funding, Hiro Capital conducts public workshops and mentorship events, leveraging an extensive network of experienced mentors in the EU.

Key facts:

• Year of Inception: 2018
• Stage Focus: Series A, Seed, Funding Round
• Sector Focus: Gaming, Video Games, Software
• Notable Portfolio Companies: FRVR, Sidero Labs, Maintain Altitude. 

3. Lince Capital

Lince Capital operates as an independent venture capital firm with extensive experience managing investment funds across diverse sectors, such as real estate, infrastructure, agriculture and telecommunications. 

Key facts:

• Year of Inception: 2016
• Stage Focus: Seed, Funding Round
• Sector Focus: Information Technology, E-Commerce, SaaS
• Notable Portfolio Companies: Pleez, Sensei, Bling Energy.

4. Makers Fund

Makers Fund is a global venture capital firm dedicated to interactive entertainment. It concentrates on early-stage investments. 

An extensive network and significant industry expertise underpin its commitment to supporting founders.

Key facts:

• Year of Inception: 2017
• Stage Focus: Seed, Series A, Funding Round
• Sector Focus: Gaming, Video Games, Online Games
• Notable Portfolio Companies: Hybe IM, Rune, Thinkr. 

5. PRYTEK

Prytek operates as a technological infrastructure service group that is driven by artificial intelligence. 

It constructs vertically integrated ecosystems through a decentralised framework by integrating top-tier managed service companies with leading technologies.

Key facts:

• Year of Inception: 2017
• Stage Focus: Series A, Funding Round, Seed
• Sector Focus: Software, FinTech, Information Technology
• Notable Portfolio Companies: ThriveDX, CYREBRO, TritonExec. 

Establishing Your Startup in Malta

Starting a business in Malta is straightforward and typically takes one to two weeks to complete.

The key steps include:

• Selecting a business structure: To begin with, consider which business structure will work best: sole trader, partnership, or limited liability company.
  
  Registering the business name: Submit a request to register your business name with the Malta Business Registry (MBR).
  
• Getting a tax number: Register the company with the Inland Revenue Department and receive a tax identification number (TIN).
  
• Opening a bank account: Establish a business bank account in Malta, ensuring you deposit the minimum capital necessary. This step is crucial for formalising your business activities in the country.
  
• Registering for VAT: If required, register for VAT with the Maltese VAT Department.

Emerging Trends in Malta’s Startup Ecosystem

Malta’s entrepreneurial landscape consists of three main sectors: 

• Fintech
• Software and data
• Social and leisure. 

Key technologies dominating the market include blockchain and cryptocurrency, artificial intelligence, machine learning and iGaming.

Some of Malta’s standout success stories include rising industry stars Weavr, PEAQ, DePin and Shortimize.

Resources for Entrepreneurs in Malta

As Malta grows and matures as a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship, the local government provides grants to support startups and SMEs, including:

• Malta Enterprise Business Development Grant
• Sustainability and Digitisation Grant
• Industrial Space Rental Grant
• Accelerator Programme Grant
• Seed Investment Scheme
• Get-Qualified Scheme
• Renewable Energy Systems Grant
• MicroInvest Scheme
• Electric Vehicle Grant
• Business Start Grant.

How to Invest in Venture Capital Funds in Malta

Here are six practical steps essential for investing in VC funds in Malta.

Investment Niche

Decide on the investment stages and sectors that best align with your r interests and expertise.

Specialisation in a specific investment stage or sector can set you apart in the competitive VC landscape. It enables you to gain deep expertise, effectively assess opportunities and cultivate a valuable network in your niche.

In Malta, these sectors include:

• NFT Investors
• Esports Investors
• Food and Beverage
• Community VC Investors.

Funding Stages

You’ll need to understand the different funding stages and which firms are best for raining funding at each stage. The different stages are:

• Pre-seed and Seed Stage
• Series A and B (Early Stage)
• Series C and Beyond (Growth Stage)
• Late Stage and Pre-IPO.

Market Analysis and Networking

Understanding market trends and competitive landscapes helps identify opportunities and risks.  

Stay informed by reading reports, attending conferences and specialising in a sector where you have experience.

A strong professional network is essential for sourcing deals and supporting portfolio companies. Attend industry events, engage in online communities and offer value to build meaningful connections.

Build a Network

Proactively building a network of VCs and startup founders is crucial for showcasing your knowledge, enthusiasm and unique value – networking increases your visibility and likelihood of being considered for opportunities.

Access to diverse experts enhances your ability to conduct thorough due diligence, scaling and securing financing.

Attend VC and startup events for networking opportunities, use social media platforms such as LinkedIn and Twitter, and reach out to established VCs in Malta for guidance and insights that can lead to valuable relationships.

Top Venture Capital Funds in Malta: FAQs

Venture Capital Malta

The future of venture capital and the startup ecosystem in Malta is bright, with the Mediterranean island leading the charge in advancing blockchain and crypto regulation.

Europe’s Golden Visas are disappearing, and the remaining programs are changing fast.

So, if you’re seeking a residence program with tax incentives in a stunning Mediterranean location, consider Malta and be ready to move quickly.

At Nomad Capitalist, we specialise in helping seven- and eight-figure entrepreneurs and investors create customised strategies to maximise their wealth and minimise their taxes. 

With over 2,000 satisfied clients, we guide high-net-worth individuals in finding the best residence and investment options while protecting their assets. Apply to become a client.