The Support for Rental & Acquisition of Industrial Space scheme, administered by Malta Enterprise and coordinated via Business First, provides targeted financial assistance to undertakings that lease or acquire private industrial premises. This initiative aims to reduce property related cost burdens and enable businesses to establish, expand, optimise supply chains or diversify their operations through either rental agreements or outright purchase.

Eligible beneficiaries may receive aid covering up to 50% of eligible rental or acquisition costs, capped at €50,000 per year, for a maximum of six years (first three years as cash grants and the subsequent three years as tax credits). Total support per undertaking is limited to €300,000 over any rolling three year period, in line with EU de minimis aid regulations.

To qualify, applicants must be Maltese registered limited liability companies, partnership, cooperatives, or self employed individuals employing fewer than 250 full time staff. They must have no VAT, Income Tax or Social Security arrears exceeding €1,000 (unless on an honoured repayment plan), and must not be subject to, or at risk of, collective insolvency proceedings.

Supported activities include:

• Manufacturing production
• Artisanal activities
• Industrial packaging
• Maintenance and Repairs of Motor Vehicles
• Repair of Machinery & Electrical Equipment.
• Industrial Laundry Services

Premises must be privately rented or purchased and correctly zoned as Category E (Industrial Uses) or Category F 6A (Storage & Distribution). Rental agreements or acquisition contracts entered into before formal scheme approval render the application ineligible. Leases with related parties or on public land at preferential rates are also excluded, as are costs beyond rent or acquisition (e.g., furnishing, fitting out, taxes, ancillary services).

The scheme accommodates for the following special scenarios:

• Start ups (registered within the last 36 months, with no income in the previous two fiscal years) may apply for support on new rental or acquisition contracts.
• Expansion/diversification projects are eligible, provided a space audit is submitted when the new premises exceed 200 sqm.
• Involuntary eviction cases may be supported for only the difference in rental costs upon forced relocation, subject to submission of the landlord’s termination notice.
• Self procurement of premises currently leased by the applicant may be funded, offsetting any prior rental aid under this or earlier schemes.

Applications must be submitted and approved prior to signing any rental or acquisition agreements. Early commitment to a property transaction will invalidate the application. The scheme remains open until 31 December 2030 or until available funds are fully committed.

To determine your eligibility or begin your application, please contact us directly or email us at incentives@trimerservices.com. Our team is ready to help you make the most of these valuable EU co-funding opportunities—so you can focus on growing your business with confidence.