Funding for technology innovation

The Technology Development Programme (TDP) 2026

3 minute read
July 22, 2026

Funding for technology innovation

The Technology Development Programme (TDP) 2026 is expected to open soon. It offers a clear funding opportunity for businesses and public entities that want to develop and commercialise new technology. Delivered under Malta's national FUSION portfolio and managed by Xjenza Malta, the programme backs collaborative projects that move innovations from Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 4 to TRL 7.

To qualify, projects must be innovative. Funding supports work that’s internationally novel, or that delivers a big, step-changing improvement on existing technologies, products, processes, or services. The focus is on creating new knowledge and applying it to build market-ready solutions in areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, quantum technologies, and big data.

The TDP is built on public-private collaboration. Every application must come from a consortium of at least two Maltese-registered partners: one public entity and one private entity. Eligible organisations include SMEs, large enterprises, universities, research organisations, professional bodies, and NGOs, each with an operating base in Malta. This structure is designed to connect research strengths with commercial application.

Projects must sit within the SMART Specialisation Areas of Malta's National R&I Strategic Plan 2023–2027 and focus on industrial research and experimental development. Eligible costs typically include personnel, specialised equipment, consumables, and overheads. The programme also includes a commercialisation voucher programme, covering an IP Check and a commercial viability test, to help protect the innovation and test its market potential.

A maximum grant of €500,000 is available to each consortium. Public entities can claim 100% of eligible costs, while private entities can claim up to 75%, depending on the applicable State Aid route.

The 2026 call has not yet been published. The above information follows the 2025 call, and no major changes are expected for the upcoming edition.

How can we help?

At PwC, we can help you prepare and compile the content you need for a TDP application. With the 2026 call expected soon and funding limited, now’s the time to start planning. Get in touch early so we can explore your eligibility, discuss your project ambitions, and set out the next steps together.

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Eric MacKay

Advisory Partner, PwC Malta

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Tel: +356 7973 6308

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