Esplora Interactive Science Centre has launched the Young Researchers’ Grant 2026, an initiative designed to encourage curiosity and give young people the opportunity to carry out real scientific research from an early age.The fund, which opened on 26 August 2026, is available to Maltese citizens and holders of a Maltese residence permit aged 13 to 21. It has two age streams: Esploraturi Nebbieta (13–17) and Esploraturi Blanzuni (18–21), with both receiving the same level of support. Applicants can apply individually or in teams of up to three.The Minister for Justice, Research and Innovation, Clifton Grima, explained that this fund reflects the Government’s direct investment in strengthening Malta’s research capacity building from the ground up, extending beyond the university and industry levels.“We need to encourage young people to ask questions and openly investigate the world around them, and this fund will help them do exactly that.Malta’s future in research and innovation cannot be built solely at university or industry level, it must begin by sparking curiosity among adolescents and young people and giving them real, hands-on experience of what research involves,” said Minister Grima.Esplora Senior Director Mary-Ann Cauchi said: “With the Young Researchers’ Grant, we are giving young people not simply the opportunity to learn about research, but the opportunity to become researchers themselves, to ask questions, test ideas, gather evidence andshare what they discover.This is a concrete step in Esplora’s evolution towards becoming Malta’s national platform for STEAM engagement, while responding directly to the need to keep young people meaningfully engaged with science as they move through adolescence. By connecting each young researcher with a mentor from Malta’s research and professional community, we are also building stronger bridges between young people and the wider STEAM ecosystem. Ultimately, this is about investing in curious young minds today and giving them the skills, confidence and opportunities to help shape Malta’s future.”During the launch, Dr Sarah Schembri, Executive (Research and Funding) at Esplora, led a series of short interventions featuring students Nathan Camilleri and Michaela Borg Cardona, who shared their perspectives on what research means to them and the types of projects young people could undertake through the fund. Dr Ing. Kevin Theuma, MCAST lecturer, also contributed to the discussion, highlighting the benefits of learning by doing and gaining practical experience alongside traditional instruction.An online information session will be held on 2 September at 17:00, followed by the application deadline on 21 October. Results will be announced on 21 November 2026. Prospective applicants are encouraged to attend the information session to learn more and ask questions. Full guidelines and the online application form will be available on the Esplora website. Questions can be directed to funds.esplora@gov.mt. Send this to someone who should attend•