Application Deadline: 13 May 2021.
The TAKEOFF Seed Fund Award is a joint initiative between the Ministry for the Economy and Industry (MEI) and the University of Malta, supported by the Knowledge Transfer Office, Center for Entrepreneurship and Business Incubation and the TAKEOFF Business Incubator. A total of €100,000 has been earmarked for distribution between start-ups and academics to enable the next phase towards the commercialisation of their business or research idea. Grants between €2,500 and €25,000 will be awarded to the selected projects.
The TAKEOFF Seed Fund Award 2021 will fund two types of initiatives: University of Malta academic staff may apply for ‘Proof of Concept’ funds which will enable a step-change in taking an innovation developed through research at the University closer to being commercialised; entrepreneurs may apply for ‘Seed’ funds which will enable a step-change in taking their independent technology or knowledge-based start-up closer to the first customer or investment.
All applicants must attend the relevant online workshop being organised as part of the TAKEOFF Seed Fund Award application process. The workshops will provide an overview of the application process as well as tools for creating a competitive proposal. The final application form will only be accepted if applicants or their representatives register and attend the required TAKEOFF or Knowledge Transfer Office workshop. This will only be waived in extenuating circumstances. Should applicants be unable to attend alternative meetings must be held directly with the Knowledge Transfer Office for POC or TAKEOFF for SF. Both events will be held online and links will be shared with those who register for the respective workshops beforehand. To register for the event, please click here
Timeline & Deadlines
- Call for applications
- Tuesday 20th April 2021 at 11:00
- Mandatory Proof of Concept workshop
- Tuesday 27th April 2021 at 10:00
- Mandatory Seed Fund workshop
- Tuesday 27th April 2021 at 14:30
- Application deadline
- Thursday 13th May 2021 at 12:00 noon
- Announcement of shortlisted applicants
- Week commencing 31st May 2021
- Coaching of shortlisted applicants
- Week commencing 31st May 2021 – Friday 18th June 2021
- Live pitches to judges
- Monday 21st June 2021 and Tuesday 22nd June 2021
- Signing of Grant Agreements & disbursement of funds
- July 2021
- Mandatory MEIB Information Session on Financial Management
- Wednesday 21st July 2021. Time to be confirmed
- Progress reports
- Monday 1st November 2021
Monday 2nd May 2022
- Deadline for disbursement of funds
- Monday 5th September 2022
- Final Expenditure Report
- Monday 12th September 2022
Material downloads
- Application Form
- Payment Plan
- Cashflow Forecast
- Guidelines
- Concept Plan Marking Guide
- TRL Guide
- Judging Scorecard – Written Application
- Judging Scorecard – Pitch
- PoC Beneficiary Agreement
- SF Beneficiary Agreement
- Payment Plan
- State Aid Declaration Form
- Progress Report Template
- Purchases Ledger
Contact Details
Official Website: TAKEOFF Seed Fund Awards 2021