Published on Saturday 8 May 2021

The annual fund for Maltese fireworks factories working on a voluntary basis aims at continuously improving safety features in fireworks factories whilst contributing to the overall betterment of the pyrotechnical industry.

During the launch of this year's edition of the fund, the Minister for National Heritage, Arts and Local Government José Herrera described the importance of such funds which offer specific, dedicated assistance to particular areas within the cultural and creative sectors.

“Fireworks are not just a part of our local cultural heritage, they bring together a community of enthusiasts who on a daily basis work to produce pyrotechnical shows of the highest standards, and we should always seek to support their efforts by investing in the infrastructure needed to improve important elements such as safety", said Minister Herrera.

The aim of the fund, which is in its fourth edition, is to improve safety in fireworks factories both during the manufacturing process as well as during the letting off of the fireworks. The grant is intended for volunteers to invest in training, development, and resources to improve the safety of the Maltese pyrotechnical systems and the betterment of the final product, especially due to the prominent role this industry plays in Maltese culture.

“The launch of such funds is a testament to the belief that the Arts Council Malta and the Ministry for the National Heritage, the Arts and Local Government truly understand the importance of the popular expression and creativity of fireworks displays", said Arts Council Malta Executive Chair Albert Marshall.

Managed by Arts Council Malta, a total of €170,000 is allocated for the year 2021. Each fireworks factory can benefit from a €5,000 grant, all of which can be put to infrastructural use.

In order to qualify for this fund, the fireworks factories are required to come up with ideas and proposals to upgrade and improve the infrastructure of the fireworks factories by investing in machinery and tools which facilitate the manufacture of fireworks and make the process safer; invest in equipment which improves safety during the letting off of fireworks; engage in training and development of resources related to the safety of fireworks; as well as to foster better synergy between Maltese fireworks factories.

The fund is open to licensed fireworks factories registered as voluntary organisations. In the case of fireworks factories forming part of band clubs, the band club needs to be registered as a voluntary organisation.

All eligible applications will be evaluated by a board of evaluators according to the established and published guidelines.

Guidelines on how to apply for the fund offering financial support to Maltese fireworks factories working on a voluntary basis are available here. All applications are being received only online until 18th June 2021.

For support and assistance, one may call 23347230 or email fundinfo@artscouncil.mt.

Press Release by the Ministry for National Heritage, the Arts and Local Government.