In light of the recent COVID-19 (Coronavirus) outbreak, on the 16th March 2020, a teleworking grant scheme was announced. Malta Enterprise issued a guideline document and an application form under the Business Development and Continuity Scheme to facilitate employers providing teleworking arrangements to their employees to carry out work from their residence. This will partially cover the costs of teleworking solutions and encourage employers to invest in technology. The team of professionals at GCS Malta provide you with the full brief below.
Who can apply?
It is open to all undertakings irrespective of size and sector. It applies to all employees who incur eligible telework expenses. This will only apply if the role of the employee can be addressed through teleworking and when a formal teleworking agreement is in place and connects to the workplace via a VPN (or similar) solution.
How much is the grant?
The grant is limited up to €500 per teleworking agreement and €4,000 per undertaking and is in the form of a cash grant.
The expenses covered
The grant will award 45% of eligible costs which have been incurred after the 1st of March 2020. Expenses covered:
- Purchasing and/or leasing of computer hardware (included operating systems) which are considered portable including installation and setting up of connectivity software;
- Communication solutions (hardware and software) that allow different users to connect to their place of work (VPN, Point-to-point connection etc.)
The process
The application form needs to be filled and submitted by the 30th of March 2020. GCS Malta can help you with the application form and eventually the claim form.
The Corporation will issue a letter of approval indicating the value of aid awarded, once the application is approved. The undertaking will have to provide and install the equipment at the teleworker’s residence within two (2) weeks from the approval letter. The beneficiary shall submit a monthly report on the teleworking activity of the employee for the three (3) months following the approval.
How can GCS Malta help?
At GCS Malta, we have a team of highly experienced professionals who can aid you with this process in such a delicate time. From advice to submitting the form, GCS malta is here to help you every step of the way. get in touch today on info@gcsmalta.com.
