€128,000 EU Funding Helps Local Catering Company Invest In New Restaurant

The Government has reaffirmed its commitment to helping small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) grow and become more competitive through strategic investment in European Union funding, highlighting another successful project supported under the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).

Minister for European Funds, Social Dialogue and Consumer Protection Keith Azzopardi Tanti visited KG Catering Co. Ltd, which received more than €128,000 through the Business Enhance grant schemes. The funding enabled the company to establish a new restaurant concept in St Julian's, including investment in professional catering equipment and modern refrigeration systems.

The Minister said SMEs remain the backbone of Malta's economy, creating employment and driving economic activity. He praised the entrepreneurial spirit of business owners and said EU funding continues to provide enterprises with valuable opportunities to expand, improve productivity and achieve sustainable growth.

The ERDF grant schemes continue to attract strong interest, with Government commitments exceeding €39 million across more than 680 grant agreements. The schemes support investment in modern equipment, digitalisation, marketing, internationalisation, certification and business studies that help enterprises make informed decisions and improve competitiveness.

Servizzi Ewropej f'Malta Chief Executive Rodrick Zerafa said the project demonstrates how European funding can translate into tangible investment for local businesses. He explained that the agency offers free guidance to businesses in Malta and Gozo, helping them identify suitable funding opportunities and supporting them throughout the application process.

KG Catering Co. Ltd representative Giuseppe Gravina said the financial assistance allowed the company to invest around €250,000 in modern kitchen and specialised equipment, providing the foundation for a more efficient and modern operation.

During the visit, Minister Azzopardi Tanti also highlighted the launch of the second call under the Digitalise your SME scheme, backed by a €15 million allocation. The scheme includes increased support for Artificial Intelligence projects, funding for personnel costs and grants of up to €235,400 for eligible investments, with additional incentives available for projects aligned with Malta's Digital Decade strategy.

The Minister encouraged businesses to continue applying for European funding to invest in innovation, expand their operations and contribute to Malta's economic growth.

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Photo Source: DOI - Kian Bugeja