Deadline Date: March 17, 2026
The Arts Research and Development Scheme is an initiative by Arts Council Malta designed to support individuals, groups, and organisations in researching, planning, developing, and delivering projects that contribute to the Council’s strategic objectives and long-term vision for the arts sector.
The scheme focuses on artistic practice through research into artistic concepts, techniques, and subjects, exploratory research that adopts innovative or untested approaches across the conception, creation, and development of artistic work, and research into Malta’s artistic communities with the aim of documenting the country’s artistic heritage in an open, inclusive, and sustainable manner, while also emphasising community and audience involvement by exploring participatory approaches to deepen engagement with existing and new audiences, experimenting with innovative methods of empirical audience engagement, and researching ways to improve access to the arts while promoting inclusive participation and greater diversity within the sector.
The total budget allocated for this funding session is EUR 100,000, with a maximum eligible amount of EUR 15,000 per project, and supported projects must take place within the period from May 7, 2026, to November 7, 2027.
Through this scheme, Arts Council Malta seeks to nurture creative potential and support professional development by encouraging co-creation, collaboration, and experimentation among creative practitioners and communities. The programme invests in artistic excellence by promoting creative risk-taking, innovation, and active community engagement, while supporting quality projects that identify and develop talent within Malta’s cultural landscape.
The scheme also places strong emphasis on research and documentation, particularly in relation to Maltese artistic and cultural communities, both past and present. By supporting research-based and exploratory initiatives, the programme aims to strengthen representation, inform policy and strategy, and contribute to a deeper understanding of Malta’s artistic heritage and contemporary practice.
Projects supported under this scheme may form part of the initial phase of a wider body of work or exist as stand-alone proposals, provided they align with the scheme’s objectives of experimentation, peer engagement, collaboration, and artistic development. The funding mechanism is intended to enable professionals and creative communities to test ideas, engage audiences, and create experiences grounded in principles of excellence and innovation.
In line with Arts Council Malta’s 2025 Strategy, applicants are encouraged to consider the principles of the Right to Culture – Resource Pack when developing their proposals, particularly in relation to inclusivity, cultural rights, and community engagement. Applicants are also required to take into account the Charter for the Status of Artists to ensure fair and decent working conditions, artistic freedom, accessibility, recognition of diverse skills, ethical practice, and adherence to intellectual property and international labour standards.
The scheme offers both State aid and non-State aid options, depending on whether applicants are carrying out an economic activity within the meaning of Article 107 TFEU, and eligibility extends to creative professionals, registered entities, groups and collectives, cooperatives, and voluntary organisations.
For more information, visit Arts Council Malta.
