Watch: SiGMA’s decade of growth, from humble beginnings to global influence

Lea Hogg December 6, 2024

SiGMA news

In an exclusive interview during SiGMA Europe 2024 in Malta, Hon. Silvio Schembri, Minister for the Economy, European Funds, and Lands, reflected on SiGMA’s remarkable growth and its impact on Malta’s economy and global presence. The Minister acknowledged SiGMA’s transformation from a local initiative into a global corporation and reminisced about SiGMA’s modest start in 2013 when the concept was pitched to Malta’s newly elected government. Back then, SiGMA was a small gathering at a local hotel, far from the 30,000-strong international delegates it boasts of today.

“It’s incredible to witness this evolution,” he said. “SiGMA has outgrown Malta’s largest venues, proving its immense impact on the global iGaming and tech ecosystems.” Schembri noted the government’s early support for the initiative, recalling, “I still remember the first days of SiGMA, starting in 2013 with a small gathering at a hotel. Today, we see it filling the largest venues in Malta and extending its reach globally, showcasing the immense potential of this vision.”

Strengthening Malta’s innovation hub

SiGMA’s achievements mirror Malta’s broader efforts to position itself as a hub for innovation and startups. Minister Schembri highlighted initiatives like the launch of Malta’s first Venture Capital Fund, which focuses on fintech, video game development, and digital life sciences. The fund has already approved its first investment, indicating Malta’s commitment to nurturing creative and entrepreneurial talent.

The government’s support extends to regulatory innovation, such as pioneering cryptocurrency frameworks and adapting to EU-wide regulations. “Malta’s agility in adopting new technologies sets it apart,” said Schembri. He emphasized the importance of fostering human capital and creating an ecosystem that encourages creativity and collaboration.

SiGMA as Malta’s global flagship

Minister Schembri praised SiGMA for elevating Malta’s profile on the global stage, calling it a “flagship” for the country’s gaming and tech industries. SiGMA’s international footprint—spanning Canada, Japan, and other major markets—has showcased Malta’s capabilities and attracted a wealth of talent and investment.

He also underscored the unique networking opportunities SiGMA brings, stating, “SiGMA is where CEOs from around the world meet in Malta, driving discussions and partnerships across industries. It enriches Malta’s ecosystem, integrating sectors like blockchain, crypto, and video game development.”

The event’s move to September next year is expected to enhance its appeal, utilizing Malta’s favourable weather for outdoor networking and expanding its global reach.

Vision for the future

The Minister expressed pride in seeing Eman Pulis, SiGMA’s founder, a Maltese entrepreneur, grow the organization into a significant economic contributor. He said that Malta is committed to sustaining this momentum by investing in startups, launching a new framework through Malta Enterprise, and establishing a one-stop shop for startup services.

As SiGMA celebrates a decade of innovation, it exemplifies Malta’s ability to punch above its weight on the global stage. “SiGMA has become a global ambassador for Malta, representing the country’s innovation and talent on an international scale,” Schembri concluded. “This is about creating an ecosystem where innovation and growth can flourish, ensuring Malta remains at the forefront of emerging industries.”

As SiGMA looks ahead, the excitement continues to build with an ambitious roadmap for 2025. With seven exciting events planned for 2025, stay updated on SiGMA’s roadshow, and follow SiGMA’s initiatives into shaping the future of gaming.