Key Moments:
- SiGMA and the Ministry for Gozo have brought together over 100 C-level gaming industry executives to explore growth opportunities on the island
- Industry leaders praised the Gozo Innovation Hub for fostering creativity and collaboration, emphasizing its role as an incubator for start-ups and established companies alike
- Government support, quality of life, and regulatory advantages have been highlighted as key factors in Gozo’s growing appeal to gaming, technology, and FinTech businesses
Industry Executives Spotlight Gozo’s Potential
Gozo has recently drawn significant attention within the global gaming community as an attractive destination for both industry mainstays and emerging start-ups. Over a hundred top-tier executives have explored Gozo’s advantages, thanks to efforts led by SiGMA in partnership with the Ministry for Gozo. Their objective was to evaluate opportunities for expansion and innovation on the island.
Heathcliff Farrugia, COO & International of SiGMA World, explained the strategy behind the initiative: “Together with the Ministry for Gozo, we agreed to bring a group of C-level executives from the gaming industry, covering various sectors, to assess goals and business potential.” Farrugia emphasized the participation of both established players and start-ups, noting the shared need for office space and access to Gozo’s business innovation offerings. He added, “Both need office space and access to the business innovation hub in Gozo,” and observed, “and both see the value it can bring to their operations.”
The Gozo Innovation Hub Gains Industry Accolades
The Gozo Innovation Hub has attracted acclaim as an ideal site for ambitious enterprises. Ivan Filletti, CEO of Gaming Malta, described it as “a beautiful space right in the middle of Gozo, ideal for start-ups and innovators, and a promising incubator environment.” Filletti connected Gozo’s advantages to Malta’s reputation as a center of gaming excellence, underscoring the lifestyle benefits and robust connectivity available to companies on the island.
“Gozo inspires creativity,” he said. “Events like SiGMA expose the world to where the iGaming business actually happens. Leadership is critical, and SiGMA brings people and businesses together, facilitating innovation and technology development.”
Investment and Collaboration Fuel Growth
Key leaders have noted that Gozo’s progress is grounded in practical, not just theoretical, investment. Michael Chaouat, VP South EMEA at Zendesk, highlighted this approach: “The Gozo government is investing seriously and practically, showing that everything is possible,” he said. Chaouat also pointed to the government’s initiative in areas such as artificial intelligence and the importance of fostering environments where stakeholders can collaborate and develop tangible solutions.
“It is crucial to have events where everyone meets in the same place to connect business-wise and understand what technology can bring to the table,” he added, emphasizing the catalytic effect such engagement has on innovation.
Supportive Environment Draws New Investment
According to Sofoklis Michail, founder and chairman of Ausplus Auditors and Tax Consultants, Gozo presents a strong model that integrates growth with innovation. “The main advantage of Gozo is the quality of life and the regulatory support available,” Michail said. “It is only a matter of time before Gozo becomes a recognised hub for gaming, tech, and FinTech businesses.”
Michail also highlighted SiGMA’s pivotal function in connecting operators, affiliates, innovators, and regulators, providing a stage for collaborative ventures and partnerships.
Positioning Gozo as a Leading Gaming Destination
Industry feedback underscores that Gozo’s appeal extends well beyond its scenic landscape. Driven by strategic investment, a favorable regulatory framework, and a vibrant ecosystem comprising both established companies and new ventures, Gozo is asserting itself as a significant hub within the global gaming sector.
SiGMA remains central in uniting key industry participants and creating opportunities that propel Gozo’s reputation as a center for gaming innovation. For enterprises seeking an inspiring business environment and dynamic community, Gozo is rapidly becoming a top choice.
| Main Factors Attracting Gaming Businesses to Gozo | Description |
|---|---|
| Innovation Hub | Incubator environment with resources for start-ups and established companies |
| Government Support | Active investment in technology and commitment to enabling collaboration |
| Regulatory Advantages | Supportive framework and access to a quality lifestyle |
- Author
Daniel Williams
