The island of Gozo in Malta is positioning itself as a new hub for digital innovation and high-value investment through Invest Gozo, a government-backed initiative launched under the Ministry for Gozo and Planning. The effort, led by Minister Clint Camilleri, aims to transform Gozo into a centre for technology, sustainability, and remote work.
“One key initiative is the collaboration with SiGMA as we believe that this collaboration will enhance Gozo’s visibility and exposure within the realm of the knowledge-based economy,” Camilleri told SiGMA TV.
He explained that the Government’s approach began with building the necessary foundations to support investment. “Over the past years, the government has focused on strengthening Gozo’s infrastructure to elevate the island’s level of preparedness to attract and accommodate investment,” he said.
VIP summit draws industry leaders to Gozo
Under the Invest Gozo brand, the Ministry hosted a VIP C-level event in partnership with SiGMA World, bringing together almost a hundred senior executives from the global gaming and technology sectors.
Heathcliff Farrugia, Chief Operating Officer of SiGMA World, said the initiative aimed to introduce Gozo to business leaders. “Together with the Ministry for Gozo, we agreed to get a group of C-level executives from the gaming industry to assess Gozo for business potential,” he said.
Farrugia added that the group included executives from tier-one companies, service providers, and startups. “We made sure to get the right mix of individuals,” he said. “Gozo has a number of characteristics which Malta does not have. If Gozo is promoted to the right sector, the tech and development sectors, it would be ideal for Gozo.”
He also said Gozo’s quality of life gives it a competitive edge. “Having this peace and quiet where you work and everywhere is even closer to Malta, I think Gozo has a lot to offer,” he said.
Executives see Gozo’s lifestyle as a business advantage
Visiting delegates praised Gozo’s peaceful environment and local culture, saying it offers a strong appeal to professionals seeking work-life balance. Dave Sneekes, founder of Chambull Ltd, said that while Gozo should remain distinct from Malta, it can attract high-level professionals.
“Gozo shouldn’t change a lot because it is different than Malta and it should stay different,” he said. “I see the bigger companies, the founders, the C-level people moving to Gozo to take some rest after a busy week or busy workday.”
Marta Policardi, affiliate manager at KNG Partners, said she found the island relaxing and welcoming. “The landscape really stood out, and the locals are really friendly. I really suggest this place to visit and have a quiet and peaceful getaway.”
Salvatore Raccampo, integration manager at Media Troopers, suggested Gozo could combine culture and business through events. “I think that in Gozo, I see very well esports tournaments and gaming showcases held here,” he said. “Partnering with the local culture or making sustainable activities will attract more players and investors.”
Maria Pindarova, casino analyst at Casino Guru, called Gozo ecological and clean. “It’s quieter than Malta and gives us a wonderful experience to meet with partners and discuss everything in a wonderful nature,” she said.
Incentives draw global entrepreneurs
Camilleri said the Invest Gozo office is now managing a range of incentive schemes designed to support knowledge-based industries.
“The Gozo-based incentive schemes are complementary to those offered at the national level, and therefore it goes without saying that those investing in Gozo are subject to further availability of incentives,” he said.
The island’s Innovation Hub is already home to several companies benefiting from Malta’s digital nomad tax scheme, which offers 0 percent tax in the first year and 10 percent thereafter.
Michael Chaouat, Vice President for South EMEA at Zendesk, said the developments demonstrate Gozo’s serious approach to technology. “It looks like you are taking AI [artificial intelligence] very seriously and very practically, which is great,” he said.
Sofoklis Michail, founder of Asusplus Auditors and Tax Consultants, said the Gozo Innovation Hub brings innovation and growth together in one place. “It’s a very nice initiative from the government of Malta, and I think they have done an excellent job so far,” he said.
Economic progress and sustainable identity
Camilleri said Gozo’s economy is already showing strong results. “Between 2017 and 2023, Gozo’s GDP [gross domestic product] grew by 74 percent, while the workforce also expanded by 43 percent,” he said.
He described this as part of a clear occurrence whereby greater economic activity fuels investor confidence, which in turn leads to further investment. The Minister emphasised that Gozo’s development is being guided by sustainability.
“Gozo, while maintaining its distinct identity, has benefited from its strong connectivity to Malta,” he said. “This unique position has created the right conditions to strike a careful balance, preserving Gozo’s charm while sustainably increasing its dynamism.”