Malta’s National STEM Community Fund Returns With Triple The Budget For 2025
Malta’s National STEM Engagement Working Group has just launched the fourth edition of the STEM Community Fund for 2025—and this year, it comes with a serious upgrade.
The news was announced during a press conference by Parliamentary Secretary for Youth, Research and Innovation Keith Azzopardi Tanti, who confirmed that the total fund has increased by a whopping 300%, reaching €100,000. Each selected project can now benefit from up to €10,000 in financial support.
Fund, managed by the Esplora Interactive Science Centre on behalf of Science Malta, is all about inspiring and supporting community-led projects in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).
From schools and local councils to NGOs, museums and grassroots community groups, the fund invites everyone to partner up with a STEM professional to create impactful, innovative and sustainable projects for their communities.
Speaking at the launch, Azzopardi Tanti explained: “The government is committed to continuing investment in research and innovation. Not only are we tripling the financial commitment from previous years, but we’re also raising the per-project cap from €8,000 to €10,000. This isn’t just about bigger numbers—it’s about directing the country’s growth back into our communities, making sure that the opportunities we’re creating are accessible and high-quality.”
He also emphasised the importance of STEM in shaping the country’s future: “STEM is key to building a future where Malta thrives—economically and socially. It’s all part of our clear vision: Malta 2050, a roadmap that focuses on long-term prosperity for workers and families. Our greatest national resource is our people.”
Silvio Scerri, CEO of Science Malta, added that the fund is all about “collaboration and unlocking the collective power of people, ideas, and expertise,” giving citizens the tools to turn bold visions into tangible impact.
Irene Mangion, Projects Lead (Research) at Esplora, said this year’s edition aligns with wider EU efforts to empower citizens in scientific knowledge and problem-solving: “We want to support initiatives that recognise the value of citizen input in generating solutions to real-world challenges.” STEM, she noted, is vital for a sustainable, digital and skills-based economy. The fund empowers people of all ages to use science to solve problems and improve wellbeing in their communities, with guidance from researchers and experts.
In the 2024 edition, €24,000 in funding supported a variety of collaborative projects between community organisations and STEM professionals. These initiatives tackled local needs while promoting STEM learning in a hands-on, sustainable way.
Applications for the 2025 STEM Community Fund are now open and will close on 23rd May 2025. For more information and to submit an application, visit the dedicated page on the Esplora website.
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