New Screen Support Scheme Launched By The Malta Arts Council
For the first time, the Screen Support Scheme has been introduced by the Malta Arts Council.
Consultation process with stakeholders identifies four pillars requiring immediate support.
The Screen Support Scheme, the result of intensive research and a consultation process with stakeholders, was announced by Minister for the Arts, Owen Bonnici.
This is the first time that the fund, which offers support to the indigenous film industry, is being managed by the Malta Arts Council as part of the Ministry for National Heritage, the Arts and Local Government.
The new scheme will also inject a total investment of €1 million into the industry for the first time.
At the launch of the scheme, Minister Bonnici emphasised the importance of continuing to work to strengthen the cultural and creative sectors. He stated that these sectors, including the indigenous film sector, shape important and intrinsic aspects that make us Maltese. Therefore, it is essential to keep listening to those working in the film sectors and to work hand in hand to continue strengthening them.
He praised the consultation process held with key stakeholders that ensured the scheme addresses the sector’s needs. He stated that the commitment to grow this scheme would continue in the coming years.
“What we are doing today is a humble attempt to alleviate the pain of a void that may have been left. We are among the few whose national cinematic expression remains smoke in the air. The road is long, but every beginning has its end. In short, this is the story so far that has brought us to where we are today as the Malta Arts Council launches its first edition of public funds in favour of the production and dissemination of indigenous Maltese film,” said Albert Marshall, Executive Chairman of the Malta Arts Council.
Marshall referred to the transfer of this fund from the Film Commission to the Malta Arts Council “This move brought with it EUR 900,000 available for the implementation of this project. Immediately, the Council, recognising that EUR 900,000 was not sufficient to make this project effective, increased the amount of funds to EUR 1 million from its reserves. The Council declares that it will continue its strong lobbying to substantially grow the fund, as is appropriate,” he added.
Mary Ann Cauchi, Director of Funds and Strategy, highlighted the five branches of this scheme. “The Council has always emphasised its role as a defender, facilitator, intermediary, and guardian of the arts, culture and creative sectors in the widest sense, in line with Strategy 2025. This includes the indigenous film sectors, which we intend to strengthen through this Scheme,” she stated.
“This Scheme will allow the consideration of applicants who are new to the industry, while also offering support in the form of a mentorship process. This approach also aligns with the principles of our national strategy, which emphasises investments that support various forms of mentorship,” confirmed Ms. Cauchi.
This fund is divided into five branches: Scriptwriting, Development, Short Films, Feature Film Production, and Cultural Programmes. Four branches of the Screen Support Scheme will cover functional works, as well as documentaries and animations, while one branch will cover cultural programmes.
Applicants must be independent audiovisual entities. Applications must be submitted by noon on 24th September, with results announced on the 21st and 22nd November.
For more information about the Screen Support Scheme, visit the website.