Minister for the National Heritage, the Arts and Local Government Owen Bonnici announced the results of the Screen Support Scheme which, for the first time, is being administered by Arts Council Malta.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This scheme saw investment in local productions increasing to \u20ac1 million, spread over a number of essential branches. Before this scheme was published, there was an intensive research and consultation process in which the main sectors requiring immediate support were identified.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The scheme aims to facilitate the creation of projects earmarked to be shown or performed in theatres, festivals, and broadcasting (including VOD\/SVOD platforms), which are considered to make a valid contribution to the expression of culture and creativity, and which are products conforming to international levels. The scheme includes animation projects, documentaries, as well as cultural programmes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The eligible branches comprise scriptwriting, development phases, as well as short film production phases, feature films, as well as cultural programmes. The Council has registered 57 eligible applications from among independent audiovisual entities. From these, 23 projects will be given funds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cIndigenous films represent an important and intrinsic part of the creative sectors, and this scheme, as it has been restructured under the administration of Arts Council Malta, reflects this importance. This government has taken heed of that which the sector has to say in this regard, and as such this scheme is considered to be another opportunity of how we can strengthen the cultural and creative sectors\u201d, insisted Minister Bonnici.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He continued saying that they are working hand in hand with stakeholders in order to continue improving the scheme\u2019s mechanisms. He also mentioned how, as was mentioned in the 2025 Budget, next year, the financial allocation for this scheme will increase to \u20ac2 million. \u201cWe will continue working so that this sector continues to receive the necessary support so as to ensure that this industry flourishes\u201d, concluded Minister Bonnici.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Arts Council Malta\u2019s Chief Operations Officer for Funds and Strategy Mary Ann Cauchi emphasised the importance of the chief pillars which form part of the scheme. \u201cThe Council always emphasised its role to safeguard the dynamic development of our cultural characteristics, while also ensuring that we build a sustainable creative economy in the broadest sent possible, in conformity with the Council\u2019s Strategy. This also includes the indigenous film sector, which is being strengthened through this scheme. We are also introducing a space for applicants who are new to the sector by offering them assistance through mentoring. This approach is also in conformity with the principles of our national strategy.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n