It is always a marked challenge for start-ups to raise finance given their innate characteristics and unproven track record. Even when start-ups succeed in building up a good case for finance, collateral requirements and cost of funding tend to be inhibitors to access such funds.

This was stated by Albert Frendo, Chief Business Development Officer (Credit) at Bank of Valletta during 'Start-Up Strong - Access to Finance' - a seminar for SMEs organized by The Malta Chamber of Commerce Enterprise and Industry as part of SME Week Malta 2018.

'For the past years Bank of Valletta has been managing and offering risk sharing instruments earmarked to assist SMEs raise finance with particular emphasis on small and micro SMEs and start-ups. Over 40% of Jaime's loan portfolio - the latest risk sharing instrument managed by Bank of Valletta, has been allocated to entities that has been in operation less than 2 years.

Mr Frendo concluded that "It is always a good idea to choose a bank that has the expertise to provide you with specialised assistance designed specifically to meet your financial needs. Advantageous rates, feasible repayment schedules and advice on possible EU Funding are some of the features to consider when selecting your financial partner.'

Bank of Valletta's services are designed to meet the needs of high-growth startups with banking solutions to fit important stages of the corporate journey, helping them to go to market faster from the concept stage.

Expert advice, based on years of experience in the sector can act as a catalyst to your business growth as well as helping in separating personal and business financing.

BOV's specialised SME Finance Unit can be contacted on +356 2275 1529 or by email at [email protected] 

All loans are subject to normal bank lending criteria and final approval from the bank.  Terms and conditions are available from www.bov.com.