Despite being the European Union's smallest member state, Malta's startup environment has grown into a flourishing center of innovation and opportunity. Malta has become a hotspot for entrepreneurs aiming to develop and build their firms, as well as for investors searching for possibilities, due to its strategic position, favorable economic environment, and supporting government efforts. In this article, we have compiled a comprehensive list of the top VC funds and angel investors in Malta that may be the right funding partner for you.
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Why Should You Raise Funds in Malta?
Malta offers a compelling proposition for startups looking to raise funds and grow their businesses, with the biggest factor being the government's support and incentives that create a supportive regulatory environment.
One of the most compelling advantages is Malta's innovative tax policies. Malta has a highly competitive corporate tax rate of 35%. Additionally, Malta operates a full imputation system, meaning that dividends distributed by the company carry a tax credit equal to the tax paid by the company. This system ensures that investors receive their dividends tax-free, making Malta an attractive destination for both entrepreneurs and investors.
Furthermore, the government's economic development agency, Malta Enterprise, provides dedicated funding packages, grants, tax credits, and other financial incentives to startups engaged in research and development, innovation, and job creation. This support not only helps startups raise funds but also fosters an environment that encourages entrepreneurial growth and innovation. Some of their major schemes are the Startup Finance, a repayable advance of EUR400,000 to EUR800,000 accessible to startups and the Business Development Grant, a grant of up to EUR200,000. The Agency also runs research and development grants and skills development grants.
Finally, Malta makes it easy for non-EU startup founders to migrate to Malta and build their businesses in the country. For instance, the Malta Startup Residence Programme provides a 3+5-year residence visa that allows recipients to live in Malta while developing or expanding their startup firm. The island also offers a Nomad Residence Permit, making it an attractive destination for digital nomads from all over the world to move here and add into the country's talent pool.
Venture Capitalist Funds in Malta
The venture capitalist funds below are actively looking for investments in promising companies throughout various stages and sectors. The stages stated do not limit the possibility of getting funding if your company is at any stage other than what is listed.
Year of Inception: 2012
Stage: Seed
Focus: Technology
Notable Portfolio: Skilling, Toucan, Builder.ai, AppOnboard
SeedStake Capital is an investment firm that specializes in providing seed capital to early-stage businesses and entrepreneurs. With a strong focus on building companies, SeedStake offers not only financial support but also valuable industry experience and an extensive network of connections. Their goal is to help startups develop their ideas into successful businesses by providing the necessary funding for essential expenses like business plan creation and initial operating costs. SeedStake aims to connect people and foster collaboration within their portfolio, creating opportunities for growth and expansion. By leveraging their expertise and network, SeedStake strives to position themselves as a strategic partner for startups on their journey to becoming established businesses.
Year of Inception: 2018
Stage: Seed, Series A
Focus: Blockchain, Cryptocurrency
Notable Portfolio: -
Kintaro Capital is an investment fund that specializes in blockchain and cryptocurrencies, aiming to capitalize on the growing market of decentralized platforms. Led by a team of experts and supported by researchers and financial analysts, the fund offers a range of services to both private and institutional investors. Their parent company, Konfidio Blockchain Venture Studio, further enhances their access to blockchain knowledge and expertise.
Year of Inception: 2018
Stage: Seed, Series A
Focus: Blockchain, Cryptocurrency
Notable Portfolio: XPAY, NYDIG, Northern Data, Deutsche Digital Assets
Samara Asset Group is a deep-tech powered alternative asset manager that focuses on generating alpha through its innovative strategies. The company focuses on investing in emerging managers and builders within the Bitcoin industry. Founded by Apeiron Investment Group, renowned crypto legend Mike Novogratz, and led by CEO Patrick Lowry, Samara is dedicated to fostering growth in its investments and believes in the future potential of Bitcoin and decentralized finance.
Year of Inception: 2022
Stage: Seed, Series A
Focus: ConsumerTech, FinTech
Notable Portfolio: Heritas, PowerAPI, Bling!, House of Change
Prediction Capital is a venture capital firm that specializes in early-stage investments in innovative technology companies. With a mission to identify and support the next generation of disruptive startups, Prediction Capital is committed to helping entrepreneurs turn their innovative ideas into successful businesses. Their investment philosophy is centered around partnering with visionary founders who are driving groundbreaking solutions in industries such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, cybersecurity, and fintech. They believe in providing more than just capital and take a hands-on approach in helping their portfolio companies succeed. By leveraging their extensive network, industry expertise, and operational guidance, Prediction Capital aims to create value and generate substantial returns for both their portfolio companies and investors.
Year of Inception: 2019
Stage: Seed, Series A, Series B, Series C
Focus: FoodTech
Notable Portfolio: Tastewise, Imagindairy, InsideTracker, Myota
PeakBridge is an investment firm that is at the forefront of shaping the future of food. With a focus on high-impact and rapid scaling capacity segments, they invest in companies with scalable technology that positively impacts food systems, the environment, and human health. Their investment philosophy centers around addressing pain points in the food industry and supporting companies in five key segments: ingredient innovations, alternative protein technologies, digitalization and the food system, nutrition and health, and alternate farming systems.
Year of Inception: 2012
Stage: Seed, Series A, Series B, Series C
Focus: Life Sciences, FinTech & Crypto, FutureTech, Experiences, Hospitality & Happiness
Notable Portfolio: Isar Aerospace, Juvenescence, Olsam, Sensei Biotherapeutics
Apeiron Investment Group is a family office and private investment firm led by entrepreneur and investor Christian Angermayer. With a strong focus on sectors such as life sciences, fintech, and future technology, Apeiron takes a hands-on approach and provides value-added assistance to its portfolio companies. The firm primarily invests its own capital, aiming to be long-term and reliable partners to the businesses they support. Apeiron has a proven track record of success in IPOs and venture deals, backed by its strong connections with leading investors. With their deep understanding of various industries and their dedication to long-term partnerships, Apeiron Investments Group offers a unique value proposition to its portfolio companies and potential investors alike.
Year of Inception: 2016
Stage: Seed, Series A, Series B
Focus: Technology, FinTech
Notable Portfolio: Mero AI, Yollando.com, Extra Loyalty Solutions, Headports
Pytch Ventures is a prominent venture capital firm that stands out for its exceptional investment philosophy and approach. With a strong focus on growth and success, Pytch Ventures understands that a clear strategy, talented workforce, and effective organizational controls are crucial factors for entrepreneurial triumph. They believe that each venture is unique, and therefore, they tailor their support and guidance according to the specific needs and goals of their portfolio companies. Their dedicated team ensures that the right talent and resources are in place to drive growth and profitability, while also serving the long-term interests of the enterprise. Pytch Ventures has an impressive track record of nurturing successful strategies that generate profits and establish the right growth rate.
Year of Inception: 2008
Stage: Seed, Series A, Series B, Series C
Focus: Technology
Notable Portfolio: Raylo, Ikue, Mindbeat, Learnerbly, Airalo
Go Ventures is a prominent venture capital firm known for its strategic investments and exceptional track record. With a strong investment philosophy, they prioritize supporting entrepreneurs who demonstrate innovative ideas and possess the potential for significant growth. Go Ventures takes a proactive approach, providing not only capital but also valuable guidance and mentorship to their portfolio companies. They have a keen eye for identifying promising startups across various industries and nurturing them to reach their full potential. With their extensive network and expertise, Go Ventures continues to be a driving force in the startup ecosystem, empowering entrepreneurs to thrive and succeed.
Angel Investors in Malta
Angel investors may act as an individual or as a syndicate to fund projects of their preference, so these networks are the best opportunity for you to find a potential Angel with an aligned vision and interests.
Stage: Seed, Series A
Focus: Sector Agnostic
Notable Portfolio: -
Business Angels Malta is a prominent group that plays a vital role in Malta's entrepreneurial ecosystem. The group's mission is to support and nurture the growth of startups and early-stage businesses in Malta by providing them with angel investments, mentorship, and strategic guidance. Their primary objective is to bridge the funding gap that often hinders the development of innovative ideas and promising ventures. Business Angels Malta actively scouts for potential investment opportunities in various sectors, including technology, healthcare, and finance. They evaluate the viability and potential of these startups, and if selected, provide them with the necessary financial support and expertise to accelerate their growth and success.
Closing Thoughts on VCs and Angel Investors in Malta
Malta's startup ecosystem is thriving and holds immense potential for entrepreneurs from around the world. The government's initiatives, such as the Malta Startup Residence Programme and funding packages from Malta Enterprise, have made it incredibly attractive for non-EU founders to establish their businesses in Malta. Furthermore, the Maltese business ecosystem has gained recognition for its favorable investment climate, making it an attractive destination for venture capital firms and angel investors alike.
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