Gregory George's Impact on Start-ups' Financial Prospects Across Europe
Hangin' with the tech elite, Malta's Prime Minister took a backseat at a recent EU startup conference. Stepping up to the plate was George Gregory, the fresh-faced CEO of Malta Enterprise, ready to take the lead. It's safe to say that Gregory's no rookie - with three decades worth of private sector experience under his belt, he's more than just another suit in the government.
"Swapping the boardroom for the cabinet wasn't a walk in the park," Gregory confessed to SiGMA World. But if there's anyone who can rock the public sector, it's this smooth-talking, savvy businessman. His diplomatic, laid-back demeanor is a breath of fresh air in the complex world of business-government relations.
Startups are where Gregory's heart lies, and he's pumping up the Malta's startup scene with investments galore. His vision reaches beyond the initial cash injection, complementing the government-backed venture capital fund with 24 independent and accredited funds. Bye-bye subsidies, hello ecosystem!
Gregory's on a mission to attract international founders to Malta, and he's making it happen. Today, almost half of Malta's new startups hail from outside the EU. But it's not just about pulling them in – it's about keeping them here. Europe, take note: retaining talent is crucial.
Talent without innovation is like a car without fuel. Gregory knows the education system needs an upgrade, especially as technology marches forward. "It's time to scrap the old teaching model," he says, and he's not talking about just local schools. The world needs to improve, and fast.
Malta Enterprise backs training initiatives, too. From the aviation industry to re-skilling programs, they're investing in talent across all sectors. But they need more, and they know it.
The iGaming sector's already matured in Malta, and Gregory won't ignore its success. "It's a winning horse," he says, and he's got his eye on other lucrative industries to conquer. But this isn't a one-man show - Malta's growth depends on smart strategic diversification.
At the conference, Gregory was all business. He sat in on discussions, shared ideas with investors, and even answered a few questions the Prime Minister preferred to dodge. When the CEO steps up, you know things are serious.
Gregory breaks down Malta Enterprise's strategy into three simple areas: startups, SMEs, and large corporations. But the big goal remains the same: sustainable economic success. They'll play the role of both incubator and accelerator, supporting businesses of all sizes as they navigate the shifting regulatory and economic landscape.
Gregory's corporate background gives him an edge. "We stay in touch with industry," he explains, adding that they chat with operators, stakeholders, and NGOs alike. In a world where speed matters, being agile is crucial.
Innovation is the name of the game, and Gregory sees it coming thick and fast, thanks to emerging technologies like AI and fintech. He's not just thinking about Malta - he's dreaming big, envisioning these technologies shaping the European and global economies.
Gregory's coming at Malta's public policy with sophistication, a touch of daring, and a focus on opportunity. And Malta? It needs just that in these uncertain times. George Gregory - buzzword bingo champion, racecar driver, Malta's savior? Maybe. But who knows - maybe the media's just afraid of a little loyalty and honesty in politics.
[1] Malta Enterprise: https://www.maltaenterprise.com/[2] Vision 2050: https://www.pc.gov.mt/about/vision-2050/visION-2050-HOVER.pdf[3] Malta Today: https://www.maltatoday.com.mt/business/economy/120751/enterprise_malta_to_invest_in_retraining_programmes[4] SiGMA: https://www.sihispano.com/2019/08/14/the-role-of-startups-in-malta-according-to-george-gregory/
- "In his role at Malta Enterprise, George Gregory, the seasoned CEO, is deliberately focusing on startups and is investing heavily in them, hoping to attract international founders to Malta, with a vision that extends beyond initial funding, integrating 24 independent and accredited investment funds."
- "Gregory realizes the pressing need for innovation in education as technology advances and believes that traditional teaching methods need to be revamped to prepare students for the future."
- "Recognizing the success of the iGaming sector in Malta, Gregory plans to leverage its strengths and invest in other growing industries, advocating for smart strategic diversification in order to sustain the nation's economic growth."
