From protecting Malta’s marine life to exploring the science behind festa traditions, 15 organisations are receiving funds to bring science into the heart of local communities.The STEAM Engagement Community Fund (SECF) 2026, which this year was €175,000, has announced its 15 beneficiaries, supporting projects that show how science isn’t just something that happens in laboratories.Administered by Esplora Interactive Science Centre on behalf of Xjenza Malta, the fund supports community-led initiatives involving Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM).Each selected organisation will collaborate with a STEAM professional on a one-year project designed to address a real need within its community.More Maltese Communities Are Getting InvolvedInterest in the fund has grown considerably this year.A total of 50 applications were submitted by the 19th August deadline, compared to just 18 in 2025.Eligible applicants requested a combined €474,585.85, with individual projects able to receive up to €12,000 in funding.Applications were evaluated by external, independent assessors using the fund’s published criteria, with both new applicants and previous beneficiaries among those selected. From Ghost Nets To Maltese FestasOne of the most exciting aspects of this year’s fund is the variety of projects being supported.And some of them are tackling issues that are particularly close to home.Environmental initiatives include Żibel’s SCYLLA: Investigating the Hidden Dangers of Ghost Nets, which focuses on the dangers associated with abandoned fishing nets.Meanwhile, Kopin’s Cool Cities and Green House’s ROOTS: Researching Orchid Occurrence Through Soil will explore environmental and biodiversity-related challenges.Education is another major focus.St Catherine’s High School will develop its NatureLab SCHS project, while Rabat Primary School will work on Growing Minds: An Outdoor STEAM Discovery Garden, bringing scientific discovery into outdoor learning spaces.And because science can also be found in Malta’s much-loved traditions, two musical organisations are getting involved.Soċjetà Mużikali La Stella Levantina will explore the digital preservation of historic festa decorations, while Għaqda Mużikali Sant’Andrija will investigate the science behind band music.Who said science and Maltese culture don’t go hand in hand?Science That Makes A DifferenceThe selected projects aren’t just about experiments and discoveries. Some will also explore important social and health-related issues.‘Siġġiewi Rowing Club’s With or Without a Prosthesis?’ is among the initiatives addressing health and inclusion.Meanwhile, TAMA will lead a project raising awareness of sexual and gender-based violence within migrant and refugee communities.Other beneficiaries include St Paul’s Missionary College, with The Living Pond Project and SparkLab STEAM Mission Programme, the 1st Sliema Scout Group, Gozo College Rabat Primary – The Happy School, the Foundation for the Conservation of the Maltese HoneyBee and Mtarfa Local Council.Together, the projects cover everything from environmental protection and cultural heritage to education, wellbeing and community participation. Bringing Science Beyond The Classroom“This Fund recognises communities as active partners in connecting science with everyday life. By bringing their ideas and local knowledge together with STEAM expertise, we are creating opportunities for people to investigate shared challenges, develop skills and shape solutions that matter to them. This reflects the direction of Esplora’s draft Strategy 2030: extending our reach across Malta and Gozo through strong partnerships, inclusive participation and lasting community impact,” said Mary Ann Cauchi, Senior Director of Esplora, highlighting the importance of involving communities directly in scientific initiatives.“Together, the projects benefiting from this fund demonstrate how science can connect people with their environment, culture and communities, while reinforcing the message that science is everywhere,” said Clifton Grima, Minister for Justice, Research and Innovation.Science Is EverywhereWhether it’s discovering more about Malta’s biodiversity, preserving local traditions or finding new ways to make communities more inclusive, the 15 selected projects highlight the many ways science can make a difference.And with €175,000 being invested in community-led initiatives, more people across Malta and Gozo will have the opportunity to get involved in scientific discovery.Share this with someone who would like to know•