Area 51 is Southern Europe’s first Industrial Micro-Factory and a €100,000 hardware accelerator launched by Gozo Graphics in Malta. We provide manufacturing credits, access to our industrial Arsenal, and expert support to bridge prototype to production — without taking equity.

We welcome designers, engineers, makers, startups, and founders based in Malta or the EU developing physical products. Selection is based on best fit with our industrial capabilities — no strict category restrictions.

• Seed Tier (€5,000 credits): prototyping, validation, and initial builds.
• Scale Tier (€10,000 credits): production-ready projects needing refinement, volume, scaling, QA, or supply chain support.

• 0% equity taken — we never own part of your company.
• 5% success royalty on revenue from the supported product line.
• Applies for 3 years starting from first sales.
• No minimum sales threshold.
• Your IP remains 100% yours.

Credits are in-kind (not cash) and redeemable for equipment time, materials, consultation, workshop space, and related services at Gozo Graphics.

• Seed: €5,000 credit + 40 hours/month facility access.
• Scale: €10,000 credit + 100 hours/month priority access + dedicated support.

Additional hours/materials beyond credits can be purchased at standard rates.

Our Arsenal micro-factory includes:

• Large-format 3D printing (up to 2m build volume).
• 4m CNC machining/router (multi-axis, tool changer, oscillating blade).
• High-power fiber lasers for metal cutting/engraving.
• UV/hybrid printing, DTF garment printing, heat presses, laminators.
• Workshops for wood and CO₂ laser processes.

Phase 2 equipment is deploying now for approved projects.

• Submit via the Seed or Scale application form (include project stage, CAD/files if available, and your vision).
• We review for fit with our arsenal and manufacturing strengths.
• If approved, you’re notified within the wave timeline and start building.

Applications are rolling and divided into four selection waves each year.

Many parts (consultation, file prep, planning) can be remote. Hands-on access to the facility requires on-site presence in Gozo or Malta. We can assist with travel/logistics for approved EU participants where possible.

Success is simply when the supported product starts generating sales. There are no extra thresholds or milestones required. The royalty runs for 3 years from first sales.

Submit via the application form, or email accelerator@area51.mt. We’re happy to jump on a quick call to discuss project fit.