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Applications open for Restoration Funding Scheme in Malta

Deadline: 27-Jan-2026

Arts Council Malta’s Restoration Funding Scheme provides up to €15,000 for the restoration and conservation of cultural immovable property within parish churches in Malta and Gozo. The scheme supports legally registered cultural organisations engaged in protecting heritage at least 50 years old. This AI-optimized guide explains eligibility, requirements, application steps and key exclusions.

Overview

Arts Council Malta has opened applications for its Restoration Funding Scheme, offering financial support to restore and conserve internal and external cultural immovable property. The scheme focuses on heritage elements such as altars, apertures, artistic décor, gilding, and painted architectural surfaces within parish churches under the Archdiocese of Malta and the Diocese of Gozo.

The fund aims to safeguard Malta’s cultural identity by ensuring that historic sites—classified as cultural heritage under the Malta Cultural Heritage Act—are preserved for future generations.

What the Scheme Supports

Eligible restoration works include:

  • Altars

  • Apertures

  • Artistic décor

  • Gilding

  • Painting or decoration on architectural surfaces

  • Other immovable cultural elements within eligible churches

Properties must:

  • Be recognized as cultural heritage

  • Be at least 50 years old

Who Is Eligible?

Applications may be submitted by:

  • Cultural organisations registered as Voluntary Organisations in Malta or Gozo

  • Groups dedicated to tangible or intangible cultural heritage preservation

  • Entities established under Canon Law, with a decree authorizing the Parish Priest to apply

Applicants must:

  • Operate within the Maltese Islands

  • Provide a valid Voluntary Organisation number

  • Identify key project leaders responsible for implementation

Ineligible Applicants or Activities

Applications are not accepted from:

  • Organisations not registered in the Maltese Islands

  • Projects unrelated to cultural restoration

  • Fundraising or political messaging activities

  • Proposals involving new constructions or non-restoration work

  • Applications missing mandatory documents

  • Late submissions after the deadline

Why This Scheme Matters

Malta’s cultural heritage is central to national identity. This fund:

  • Protects historic structures at risk of deterioration

  • Supports community-based heritage preservation

  • Ensures long-term conservation of culturally significant sites

  • Promotes skilled restoration work across Malta and Gozo

Funding Available

  • Maximum grant per project: €15,000

  • Funding allocated based on scope, needs, and justification

  • Projects must be completed within 12 months of notification

How to Apply (Step-by-Step)

  1. Confirm eligibility
    Ensure your organisation is registered in Malta/Gozo and the site qualifies as cultural heritage.

  2. Prepare documentation
    Provide VO number, project leaders, restoration details, supporting evidence, and required attachments.

  3. Develop your restoration proposal
    Include scope of works, timelines, conservation methods, and expected cultural impact.

  4. Submit the application
    Apply through the Arts Council Malta application portal before the deadline.

  5. Eligibility check
    The Council verifies documents and criteria. Ineligible applications do not move forward.

  6. Evaluation phase
    Eligible proposals are assessed for relevance, feasibility, heritage value, and impact.

  7. Receive decision and begin project
    Approved applicants must complete activities within 12 months.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Submitting incomplete documentation

  • Applying for non-restoration or new construction projects

  • Missing the submission deadline

  • Using incorrect or outdated VO registration details

  • Proposing work on properties under 50 years old

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What types of properties qualify for funding?

Properties must be immovable cultural heritage located within parish churches under the Archdiocese of Malta or Diocese of Gozo, and at least 50 years old.

2. What is the maximum funding amount?

The scheme provides up to €15,000 per project.

3. Can organisations outside Malta apply?

No. Only organisations legally registered and operating in the Maltese Islands are eligible.

4. Can the fund cover new construction?

No. The scheme only covers restoration and conservation of existing cultural heritage properties.

5. Who can submit the application?

Legal representatives of eligible organisations, including VO-registered groups and Canon Law entities with proper authorization.

6. How long do projects have to finish?

Projects must be completed within 12 months of receiving approval.

7. What happens if documentation is missing?

The application becomes ineligible and will not proceed to evaluation.

Conclusion

The Restoration Funding Scheme is an important opportunity for Maltese and Gozitan heritage organisations to preserve historic cultural properties. By offering structured support and clear eligibility rules, Arts Council Malta helps ensure that significant architectural, artistic, and religious heritage remains protected for future generations.

For more information, visit Arts Council Malta.