Deadline: 17-Mar-2026
The Arts Research and Development Scheme by Arts Council Malta provides funding to individuals, groups, and organisations to research, plan, and develop artistic projects. With a budget of EUR 100,000, grants of up to EUR 15,000 support innovation, community engagement, and research into Malta’s artistic heritage while promoting inclusivity, collaboration, and professional development.
Overview
The Arts Research and Development Scheme is an initiative by Arts Council Malta to support creative practitioners in the research, development, and delivery of projects that align with the Council’s strategic objectives and long-term vision for the arts sector. The program fosters artistic excellence, experimentation, and professional growth, while encouraging collaboration among practitioners and communities.
Program Objectives
The scheme prioritizes:
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Research into artistic concepts, techniques, and subjects
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Exploratory research with innovative or untested approaches in conception, creation, and artistic development
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Research into Malta’s artistic communities, documenting heritage and contemporary practice
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Community and audience engagement through participatory methods
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Improving access to the arts and promoting inclusivity and diversity within the sector
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Supporting co-creation, collaboration, and experimentation among practitioners
Funding Details
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Total budget: EUR 100,000
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Maximum per project: EUR 15,000
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Project period: May 7, 2026 – November 7, 2027
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Funding types: State aid and non-State aid depending on whether the activity qualifies as an economic activity under Article 107 TFEU
Who is Eligible?
Eligible applicants include:
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Individual creative professionals
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Registered entities, groups, and collectives
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Cooperatives and voluntary organisations
Projects must align with the scheme’s objectives of innovation, collaboration, artistic development, and audience engagement.
How the Scheme Works
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Application Submission: Applicants submit proposals aligned with scheme priorities and strategic objectives
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Assessment: Applications are evaluated on innovation, artistic quality, feasibility, community engagement, and contribution to Malta’s cultural sector
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Grant Allocation: Approved projects receive funding up to EUR 15,000
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Project Implementation: Funded initiatives conduct research, co-create work, engage audiences, and document artistic practices
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Reporting and Documentation: Applicants report on outcomes, findings, and contributions to Malta’s artistic heritage
Key Considerations
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Applicants are encouraged to apply principles from the Right to Culture – Resource Pack focusing on inclusivity, cultural rights, and community engagement
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Proposals should consider the Charter for the Status of Artists, ensuring fair working conditions, artistic freedom, ethical practice, intellectual property rights, and recognition of diverse skills
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Projects may form part of a larger body of work or be stand-alone initiatives that test ideas and engage audiences
FAQs
1. Who can apply? Individuals, registered entities, groups, collectives, cooperatives, and voluntary organizations in Malta engaged in creative practices.
2. What types of projects are supported? Research, exploratory development, co-creation, documentation, and audience engagement projects aligned with the Council’s strategic objectives.
3. How much funding is available? Total budget of EUR 100,000, with a maximum of EUR 15,000 per project.
4. When must projects take place? Between May 7, 2026, and November 7, 2027.
5. Are there specific eligibility requirements? Projects must align with artistic innovation, community engagement, collaboration, and professional development objectives; both State aid and non-State aid options exist.
6. What principles should applicants follow? Right to Culture – Resource Pack for inclusivity, cultural rights, and Charter for the Status of Artists for fair and ethical practices.
7. Can projects be part of a larger body of work? Yes, projects may be initial phases of wider initiatives or stand-alone proposals.
Conclusion
The Arts Research and Development Scheme offers Maltese creative practitioners a unique opportunity to explore, experiment, and document artistic work while engaging communities and audiences. By supporting innovation, professional development, and research into Malta’s artistic heritage, the program strengthens the cultural sector, fosters collaboration, and promotes inclusive participation across the country.
For more information, visit Arts Council Malta.
