EU Unlocked: Equipping entrepreneurs with Insights on EU law, innovation and business growth
EPLO Malta, in collaboration with the FPEI, has concluded the EU Unlocked course, a three-session course designed to help entrepreneurs better understand the European business environment and the opportunities available at EU level.
The European Parliament Liaison Office in Malta, in collaboration with the Foundation for the Promotion of Entrepreneurial Initiatives, has successfully concluded EU Unlocked - Law, Tech & Growth for Entrepreneurs. This targeted three-session course was specifically designed to demystify the European business environment, providing small and medium-sized enterprises and entrepreneurs with the practical knowledge required to navigate and leverage EU-level opportunities.
Navigating the EU Legislative and Support Framework
The initiative brought together around 25 participants, offering them a comprehensive overview of how European legislation is shaped and how businesses can actively engage with policymaking processes. By understanding these mechanisms, local entrepreneurs are better positioned to adapt to an evolving regulatory landscape while capitalising on EU support structures designed for long-term growth. The introductory session established a foundational understanding of the EU’s operational architecture:
• MEP Peter Agius welcomed the participants with a virtual address, thanking them for the commitment to the programme and highlighted the importance of such initiatives in bridging the gap between local businesses and EU policy.
• Stefano Mallia, Vice-President of the Employers’ Group at the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC), provided valuable institutional context, emphasising why proactive engagement with European institutions is vital for modern business competitiveness.
• Elaine Cordina opened the course by breaking down the complex legislative procedures, negotiations, and decision-making processes that underpin European law.
• Mark Muscat and Andrea Camilleri subsequently explored the diverse funding and support mechanisms available to businesses through the European Union.
Addressing Legal Frameworks and Taxation
As the course progressed, the focus shifted toward specific legal and fiscal structures impacting innovative enterprises within the single market. The second session addressed advanced regulatory concepts, featuring insights from legal experts:
• Dr Vanessa da Costa Palmer presented on the proposed 28th Regime, examining how this potential new legal framework could streamline operations for innovative companies.
• Dr Vitorine Bajada provided a detailed analysis of contemporary taxation and licensing considerations, offering participants practical guidance on compliance and strategic planning.
Adapting to Digital Transformation and Geopolitical Status
The final session confronted the dual challenges of technological disruption and global economic volatility, both of which heavily influence the modern SME landscape:
• Dr Claire Cassar led a discussion on digitalisation and the expanding role of AI, outlining both the operational benefits and the regulatory responsibilities for SMEs.
• Silvan Mifsud concluded the programme with an analysis of current geopolitical developments and international tensions, illustrating their direct effects on the broader commercial environment.
By bridging the gap between institutional policymaking and practical commercial application, EU Unlocked has provided entrepreneurs with the insights necessary to make informed strategic decisions, foster innovation, and enhance competitiveness within the European single market.
