Nine Community Projects Awarded Funding Through National STEM Community Fund
The National STEM Community Fund, administered by Esplora Interactive Science Centre on behalf of Xjenza Malta, continued its mission to support science engagement at the grassroots level with a significant increase in both funding and participation for 2025. The selected projects were officially announced during a press event held on 31st July 2025 at the Esplora Planetarium Hall, which brought together key stakeholders to celebrate and showcase this year’s awardees.
The Fund aims to inspire and enable the development of participatory projects grounded in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). It supports community-based initiatives that promote research, education, science communication, and citizen science.
Open to organisations active within the community, such as schools, Local and Regional Councils, NGOs, museums and other community groups, the Fund invited applicants to collaborate with a STEM professional to design projects that would benefit their communities, in line with the Fund Guidelines.
In 2025, the Fund’s budget was increased from €24,000 to €100,000 (inclusive of fund management costs), reflecting a growing national commitment to STEM engagement and outreach. By the submission deadline of 23rd May 2025, Esplora received a record 18 applications. These were evaluated by three independent experts, and nine diverse projects were selected for funding, each receiving a grant of up to €10,000.
The STEM Community Fund grantees for 2025 are:
Green House
Sacred Heart Junior School
Rabat Primary School
Friends of the Earth
San Ġorġ Preca College
Malta Pyrotechnic Association
BirdLife Malta
Żebbuġ Local Council
Eastern Regional Council
The press event opened with a welcome address by Dr Tonio Portughese, Chairman of Xjenza Malta’s Consultative Committee, who remarked that, “The quality and diversity of the submissions received speak volumes about the community’s dedication to STEM education and engagement. These projects represent a meaningful investment in Malta’s scientific literacy and future.”
During her brief introduction, Ms Mary Ann Cauchi, Senior Director at Esplora, said that, “This year’s response to the National STEM Community Fund exceeded all expectations.” Ms Cauchi added that, “The enthusiasm and creativity of the applicants reflected a growing awareness that science is not only for scientists, but it is a tool that empowers communities, stimulates curiosity, and inspires change.”
Following a project pitch by the grantees and a short panel discussion, Parliamentary Secretary Keith Azzopardi Tanti delivered the closing remarks highlighting the importance of continued investment in science education and public engagement. “The government is proud to support initiatives that bring science closer to the people,” said Azzopardi Tanti, and he added that, “The increased funding for this year’s call demonstrates our commitment to building a more scientifically informed and empowered society, starting at the community level.”
This initiative continues to reinforce public engagement in STEM and strengthens Esplora’s mission to make science accessible, inclusive, and relevant to all.
For more information visit The National STEM Community Fund – Esplora
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