The Art of Entrepreneurship

Creativity, perseverance and a passion to drive innovation are essential to success.

Malta's economy is thriving, thanks to a wave of emerging entrepreneurs who are not only adept in business but also excel in their respective fields. While traditional business metrics remain essential for success, entrepreneurship is an art that requires creativity, perseverance, and passion to drive innovation. Similar to artists who challenge norms and revolutionize their fields, entrepreneurs must find new and unique ways to create and deliver value to stay ahead of the competition.

Entrepreneurship is crucial for the prosperity of global economies, and Maltese entrepreneurs have made significant contributions to their industries and the nation. Notable winners of the prestigious EY Entrepreneur of the Year award in Malta include Alfred Pisani of Corinthia Group (2017), Angelo Xuereb of AX Holdings Ltd. (2018), David Darmanin of Hotjar (2019), Nazzareno Vassallo of Vassallo Group (2020), Mark Bajada of Bajada Investments Ltd. (2022), Louis Farrugia of Farsons Group (2023), and Andy Gatesy of Toly Products (2024).

Additionally, the EY Rising Star award has recognized ambitious up-and-coming entrepreneurs such as John Winfield of Dr Juice, David Vella of Altaro Software, Shane Hunter of Aqua Biotech Group, Ben Remfrey of Praedium Consulting Malta Ltd, Krystle Penza of Mvintage, Yasmin De Giorgio of Shireburn Software Ltd, and Zach Ciappara of FreeHour.

The EY Entrepreneur of the Year award in Malta is unique in its global dimension, offering the winner the opportunity to compete with over 50 entrepreneurial leaders from around the world for the title of EY World Entrepreneur of the Year. Nominations for this year’s award are open until January 17th, with an independent panel of judges comprising key figures from the business community.

By highlighting the stories and achievements of Malta’s local innovators, we aim to inspire younger generations to embrace entrepreneurial challenges and aspire to claim the prestigious title of EY World Entrepreneur of the Year. Entrepreneurs who master the art of creation can lead sustainability efforts and revolutionize their industries, much like the world’s greatest artists. The EY Entrepreneur of the Year award is an ideal platform to showcase Malta’s talent and spirit, celebrating the skills of the island’s innovative entrepreneurs.

Through our efforts to share the stories and successes of Malta’s local change-makers, we hope to inspire the younger generations to tackle the challenges of entrepreneurship and one day earn the honor of becoming the EY World Entrepreneur of the Year.

The EY Entrepreneur of the Year program is supported by The Malta Chamber.

For more information and to submit a nomination visit: EY Entrepreneur of the Year Malta 2025 | EY - Global

Kevin Mallia is EY Malta’s Consulting Lead  Partner.