Support Scheme for Maltese Music on Private Radio Stations

The Support Scheme for Maltese Music on Private Radio Stations forms part of the portfolio that invests in diverse artistic and cultural expression and in the development of the Maltese cultural and creative sectors.

The scheme was developed to promote and support the exposure of local musical talent on broadcasting platforms. This scheme provides financial assistance to eligible broadcasting entities committed to broadcasting Maltese music through structured programming that aligns with Malta’s cultural and linguistic identity.

The scheme is developed so that high-quality locally produced music receives the visibility and recognition it deserves, thereby contributing to a vibrant and sustainable local Maltese music scene.

Objectives

• Nurture creative potential and support its development, encouraging co-creation, collaboration, and experimentation;
• Facilitate the creation of platforms for promising young talent, intergenerational engagement, as well as intercultural engagement;
• Generate cultural and social development, economic growth, and employment;
• Direct the investment of their public funding towards building new partnerships and collaborations as well as expanding their knowledge, skills, and networks in order to support and promote the conditions in which the cultural and creative sectors of Malta and Gozo can flourish.
• The main objective of this scheme is to increase the broadcast presence of contemporary Maltese music, particularly works that use the Maltese language and are created by local artists. By increasing the broadcast time dedicated to Maltese music, the scheme aims to foster an appreciation for Maltese culture, support the local music industry, and ensure that new and emerging works are accessible to a wider audience through regular high-quality programming.

Programme Details

• The scheme supports applicant broadcasters to produce and broadcast thirteen (13) dedicated programmes per schedule over three consecutive schedules, from 1 October 2025. Each programme must include a minimum of forty (40) minutes of Maltese music, which may be broadcast in either:
  • A full continuous block between 06:00 and 20:00; or
  • Two separate blocks of 20 minutes each, also between 06:00 and 20:00.
• Programmes must consist of original broadcasts; repeated content is not eligible. Furthermore, advertising cannot be included in the minimum 40-minute requirement.

Music Content Criteria

• The music content must comply with the following criteria:
  • Composed and/or written by Maltese individuals
  • Released within the last 36 months
  • At least 50% of the music must contain lyrics in the Maltese language

Who can apply?

• The grant is open to undertakings (to which assistance will be granted in accordance with the de minimis regulation), within the meaning of Article 107 TFEU. Applicants must qualify as:
  • A company registered with the Malta Business Registry
• In addition, applicants must qualify as a broadcaster that is a private radio station on a national basis or a private digital audio broadcasting station and listed among the licensed stations on the Broadcasting Authority page

Application Requirements

• In order to be considered for support under this scheme, applicants must submit the October 2025 broadcast schedule along with their application.

For more information, visit Arts Council Malta.