Government launches €2 million Screen Support Scheme to strengthen Malta film industry

Government has launched the Screen Support Scheme, a scheme specifically aimed at strengthening Malta’s indigenous film and screen industry, with an allocated funding of €2 million.

Managed by the Arts Council Malta, this initiative demonstrates the government’s commitment to the creative and cultural sectors, including those related to film and screen production in the country, a government statement said.

This year, the scheme will see an increase in funds, with the total allocated amount rising to €2 million.

Compared to three years ago, the expenditure in local productions has therefore tripled, the statement said.

Culture Minister Owen Bonnici said that the indigenous productions sector is a crucial pillar of the creative industry, and this scheme, in its restructured form, continued to show how the government listens and takes action to strengthen this sector.

“Culture and creativity are vital to our identity, and through this scheme, we are giving Maltese artists the opportunity to continue producing high-quality work that reflects local talent,” Bonnici said.

Executive Chairperson of Arts Council Malta Albert Marshall said that the Council remains committed to supporting more initiatives for the artistic and creative sector, such as this scheme, which has seen a substantial increase this year.

The scheme is divided into five categories, covering different stages of film production:

The first one being Strand 1, covering Scriptwriting, where support for the development of original scripts is provided.

Strand 2 pertains Development, as well as funding for project development phases, with Strand 3 focusing on Short Film Production, where financial aid will be provided for short film productions.

Strand 4 covers Feature Film Production, with resources for full-length film productions and Strand 5 covers Cultural Programming, providing support for cultural initiatives.

Detailed guidelines and application forms can be found at www.artscouncil.mt.

Applications will be evaluated based on originality, vision, and impact on both local and international audiences. The deadline for applications is 15 April 2025.