A two-day specialised training programme was held by the Malta Business Bureau (MBB), on accessing direct EU funding programmes for businesses. This training was organised on the 4th and 5th February in collaboration with APS Bank and Corinthia Hotels International.

The programme provided executives and entrepreneurs with the necessary knowledge, skills and practical understanding for how best to submit an EU-project proposal and subsequently manage the funded project.

MBB CEO Joe Tanti said that, “The potential for Maltese business to tap direct EU funding programmes remains relatively unexplored. The MBB undertook this training initiative to inform on the developments related to direct funds managed by the European Commission and to promote the opportunities these programmes could bring to the benefit of the Maltese business community.

“With the ongoing discussions on the future EU budget post-2013, it is important to equip local businesses with an insight into the future funding programmes beyond the locally-managed and cohesion-funded ERDF and ESF schemes. “The new financial framework 2014-2020, should provide new funding opportunities for SMEs in different areas including research & innovation, tourism, education and training, amongst others,” elaborated Mr Tanti.

For this occasion, the MBB invited an EU project management expert Mr Francesco Vallebona, Director of the Brussels-based consultancy Medin Europe, who explained to the participants how to identify EU grants and calls for proposals. Mr Vallebona also gave detailed information on the management and financial administration required for the successful implementation of an EU funded project.

The participants benefitted from an innovative mock session whereby a simulation exercise on how to develop an idea into a concrete project proposal including the full drafting of a project application was organized under the direct mentoring of the expert trainer.

Mr Vallebona commented that “EU direct funds can help Maltese SMEs to participate in transnational networks and to enhance their competitiveness. Such programmes present a platform for SMEs to innovate their production processes, increase their resilience, and help them become more active on the global market.”

During the training programme, Mr Marco Micallef – Advances Manager APS Bank, delivered a presentation on the Bank’s BizPlus Service, which comprises EU Projects Co-Financing as a feature to assist SMEs tap EU funds in order to upgrade their business activity or undertake new projects.

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