Deadline: 03-Mar-2026

The Arts Council Malta International Participation Scheme supports Maltese and Malta-based artists and cultural operators to present their work internationally, build cross-border collaborations, and develop professional skills. The scheme funds participation in global cultural events while promoting cultural rights, fair working conditions, inclusivity, and sustainable creative sector growth.

Arts Council Malta International Participation Scheme

Program Overview

The International Participation Scheme, administered by Arts Council Malta, is a funding and support initiative designed to strengthen Malta’s cultural presence abroad. It enables artists and cultural operators to engage with international audiences, institutions, and markets while developing skills through global exposure.

The scheme prioritizes international mobility, collaboration, and professional development within the creative and cultural sectors.

Key Objectives of the Scheme

The program aims to:

• Support Maltese artists and cultural operators to showcase their work internationally

• Enable participation in global cultural platforms and networks

• Facilitate cross-border collaboration and knowledge exchange

• Encourage artistic and professional skill development

• Promote ethical, inclusive, and rights-based cultural practices

Supported International Activities

Funding may support participation in:

• International festivals and exhibitions

• Performances, shows, and screenings

• Networking and professional exchange events

• Film presentations and markets

• Conferences and sector-specific forums

• Artist residencies and international fairs

These activities must contribute to professional growth and international cultural engagement.

Alignment with Cultural Rights and Ethical Standards

Applicants are required to align their proposals with established cultural and labor frameworks.

Right to Culture Resource Pack

Projects must demonstrate:

• Respect for cultural rights and inclusivity

• Accessibility for diverse audiences

• Ethical representation and participation

Charter for the Status of Artists

Applicants must uphold principles related to:

• Fair working conditions and remuneration

• Artistic freedom and creative autonomy

• Recognition of professional skills

• Socio-economic equity

• Ethical conduct and professional standards

• Intellectual property rights protection

• Compliance with international labor law

Who Is Eligible?

Eligible applicants include:

Individual Applicants

• Maltese citizens

• Malta-based artists or creative professionals

• Individuals holding a Maltese residence permit, citizenship certificate, or passport

Organisational Applicants

• Registered companies and partnerships

• Foundations and cooperatives

• Voluntary organizations and NGOs

• Groups, collectives, and consortia operating in the cultural and creative sectors

Applicants must be legally established or resident in Malta.

How the Scheme Works

1. Identify an eligible international activity aligned with program objectives

2. Develop a proposal demonstrating artistic value and international relevance

3. Ensure compliance with cultural rights and ethical standards

4. Submit an application with required documentation

5. Undergo evaluation by Arts Council Malta

6. Approved applicants receive support to participate internationally

Why This Scheme Matters

The International Participation Scheme:

• Expands Malta’s cultural visibility worldwide

• Strengthens international cultural diplomacy

• Supports sustainable careers in the arts

• Encourages responsible and inclusive cultural practice

• Builds long-term international networks for Maltese creatives

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Proposals without clear international relevance

• Lack of alignment with cultural rights frameworks

• Inadequate explanation of professional development outcomes

• Weak justification of artistic or cultural impact

• Incomplete eligibility documentation

Tips for a Strong Application

• Clearly explain the international opportunity and its value

• Demonstrate how participation advances your artistic practice

• Highlight networking and collaboration outcomes

• Show compliance with cultural rights and labor standards

• Present realistic objectives and measurable outcomes

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the main purpose of the International Participation Scheme?

To support Maltese and Malta-based artists in showcasing their work internationally and building cross-border collaborations.

Who can apply to the scheme?

Individual artists, creative professionals, registered cultural organizations, and collectives based in Malta.

What types of activities are funded?

Festivals, exhibitions, performances, conferences, residencies, international fairs, and networking events.

Is alignment with cultural rights mandatory?

Yes. Applicants must align with the Right to Culture Resource Pack and the Charter for the Status of Artists.

Does the scheme support international collaboration?

Yes. Collaboration and networking are core objectives of the program.

Does this scheme contribute to long-term career development?

Yes. It focuses on skill development, international exposure, and sustainable artistic careers.

Conclusion

The Arts Council Malta International Participation Scheme plays a vital role in elevating Maltese culture on the global stage. By combining international exposure with strong ethical and cultural standards, the scheme supports artists and cultural operators in building sustainable, inclusive, and internationally connected creative practices.

For more information, visit Arts Council Malta.