EUROPE DIRECT Gozo in collaboration with the Gozo Business Chamber organised the seventh edition of Youth4Entrepreneurship Gozo on Friday, 21 November 2025, at the Kempinski Hotel San Lawrenz. This initiative, held annually, continues to serve as an important platform for young people to present innovative ideas that respond to Gozo’s current and future needs.
This year’s theme, “Digital Solutions for a Smarter Island,” invited participants to explore how digital tools and emerging technologies can support Gozo’s sustainability, cultural identity, and economic development.
The event was organised by the Gozo Business Chamber in collaboration with:
- Aġenzija Żgħażagħ
- Malta Digital Innovation Authority (MDIA)
- Gozo Regional Development Authority (GRDA)
- Bank of Valletta
- JA Malta Foundation
- Jobsplus
- Malta Enterprise
- Ministry for the Economy, Enterprise and Strategic Projects
Opening and Welcome Remarks
The evening opened with introductory remarks by Francesca Borg, who highlighted the event’s collaborative nature and emphasised the importance of supporting young entrepreneurs as they explore digital innovation, sustainability, and new economic opportunities for Gozo.
This was followed by an address from the President of the Gozo Business Chamber, Mr Michael Galea, who noted that Youth4Entrepreneurship has now become a permanent fixture in the Chamber’s calendar. He highlighted the essential role of young people in driving digital transformation on the island and underlined the Chamber’s commitment to developing this initiative into a more structured entrepreneurship pathway in the coming years.
Ms Miriam Teuma, CEO of Aġenzija Żgħażagħ, delivered an intervention recognising the agency’s continued involvement, including the summer youth work sessions that supported participants in preparing their ideas.
The Pitches
Three young participants presented their ideas, each aligned with the year’s theme and reflecting a strong understanding of Gozo’s context.
1. Gozo Circular Creations – Josie Aldam
Josie proposed a community-driven circular economy initiative that collects recyclable waste from across Gozo and transforms it into 3D-printed Gozo-themed products. The concept integrates environmental action, cultural identity, and digital fabrication.
2. A Smarter and Innovative Way to Experience Gozo! – Fulvio Valenti
Fulvio presented the idea of producing accurate, biodegradable 3D-printed miniatures of Gozo’s iconic landmarks using drone imagery and scanning technologies. The models are intended for tourists seeking meaningful souvenirs and for businesses offering Gozo-themed educational and cultural products.
3. GħaQLI: l-Għawdxi Qabel l-Ingliż – Gabriel Hili
Gabriel introduced the concept of a data-broker company dedicated to collecting and licensing speech data for the Gozitan dialect. The aim is to support the development of AI tools that better understand Maltese linguistic varieties while digitally preserving Gozo’s dialectal heritage.
Presentation of Certificates
Following the pitches, Mr Mario Borg, Permanent Secretary within the Ministry for Gozo and Planning, presented certificates and mementos to the three participants and delivered concluding remarks on behalf of the Minister for Gozo and Planning who could not be present due to a work commitment abroad.
Closing Remarks
To conclude the evening, Mr Daniel Borg, CEO of the Gozo Business Chamber, reflected on the importance of creating the right environment for young people to thrive, innovate, and contribute to Gozo’s future. Drawing on insights referenced during his address, he emphasised the role of youth as carriers of creativity, optimism, and the courage to take risks, while encouraging continued collaboration across stakeholders to support entrepreneurial growth on the island.
Conclusion
Youth4Entrepreneurship Gozo 2025 once again demonstrated the talent, creativity, and potential of young people in shaping Gozo’s development through digital innovation. The Chamber extends its gratitude to all partners, participants, evaluators, and attendees who contributed to another successful edition.
You can view again the event by clicking on this link ( https://youtu.be/EltX-GYjG9w )
