The Ministry for Culture, together with the Parliamentary Secretariat for Youth, Research and Innovation, have launched a new €160,000 funding scheme for youth cultural organisations participating in Carnival 2026.
The scheme aims to support and strengthen youth involvement in the annual Carnival festivities, while promoting creativity, cultural identity and artistic expression in a more inclusive and innovative way, a government statement said.
It said that the total funds allocated for this edition amount to €160,000, providing direct support to cultural organisations and youth groups taking part in Carnival 2026.
The initiative will offer financial assistance to facilitate the production of costumes, dance, music and other related artistic elements, while creating opportunities for more young people to be part of the national Carnival event.
Minister for Culture Owen Bonnici described the scheme as an important mechanism to continue building the country’s cultural identity within one of its most popular cultural expressions.
“This scheme is not only an investment in creativity, but also in our nation’s history and living heritage. Through it, we are giving space for local talent to express itself, while strengthening the understanding and appreciation of Maltese culture among all generations,” Bonnici said.
Parliamentary Secretary for Youth, Research and Innovation Keith Azzopardi Tanti said that the scheme is another step in ensuring that Carnival remains a hub of innovation and artistic expression.
“Carnival has been celebrated for generations, but its spirit stays alive when we give space and support to the people who make it possible, especially young people. This scheme is an investment in their creativity, in our cultural identity, and in the future of this event that brings everyone together. We want to see more innovation, more expression, and more young people actively participating with a modern vision,” Azzopardi Tanti said.
In line with the initiative, an Evaluation Board will be appointed to administer and assess applications according to established criteria and guidelines, the statement said.
The board will ensure that the funds are used effectively on projects that bring cultural, artistic and community value.
Applications may be submitted by youth organisations and groups participating in Carnival 2026.
For this purpose, Festivals Malta will be accepting applications until the end of 2025.
Festivals Malta will also be communicating with all groups participating in Carnival 2026 for more information.
