Esplora Interactive Science Centre has officially launched the STEAM Engagement Community Fund 2026, a grant scheme designed to support local organisations in developing innovative community projects centred around Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM).The fund aims to empower communities by providing financial support to projects that make STEAM more accessible and engaging. Eligible applicants include schools, local councils, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), foundations, museums, galleries and other community-based organisations. Previous experience in applying for funding is not required, and anyone actively involved in their community is encouraged to submit a proposal.Mr Silvio Scerri, CEO of Xjenza Malta, said, “At Xjenza Malta, we believe science creates the greatest impact when it reaches our communities. The STEAM Engagement Community Fund supports local ideas and partnerships that drive engagement and empower people through innovation. We encourage eligible organisations to take this opportunity and turn ideas into real impact.”Successful projects may receive grants of up to €12,000, with 70% of the approved funding disbursed upfront upon the signing of the grant agreement, enabling organisations to begin implementing their projects without delay.To ensure the delivery of high-quality STEAM initiatives, every funded project must be built on a strong scientific foundation and involve collaboration between the community organisation and a STEAM professional.Applications for the STEAM Engagement Community Fund 2026 opened on 1 July 2026 and will remain open until 19 August 2026. Applications can be submitted online through the application portal available on the fund webpage.To assist prospective applicants, Esplora will be hosting two online information sessions on 8 July 2026. An English-language session will take place at 10:30 followed by a Maltese-language session at 17:00. Participants will have the opportunity to learn more about the fund, the application process and the eligibility criteria, as well as ask any questions they may have. The sessions will be recorded and made available online afterwards.Ms Mary Ann Cauchi, Esplora Senior Director, said, “Through the STEAM Engagement Community Fund 2026, Esplora is strengthening its role beyond the walls of the science centre by bringing science, creativity and innovation closer to communities. This fund is an invitation for local organisations to transform ideas into meaningful projects that inspire curiosity, widen access to STEAM, and create lasting value for people of all ages across Malta and Gozo.” The fund guidelines, application details and information session links are available at https://esplora.org.mt/steam-engagement-community-fund-2026/.For further information, prospective applicants may contact the Esplora team by email at funds.esplora@gov.mt.To assist prospective applicants, Esplora will be hosting two online information sessions on 8 July 2026. An English-language session will take place at 10:30 followed by a Maltese-language session at 17:00. Participants will have the opportunity to learn more about the fund, the application process and the eligibility criteria, as well as ask any questions they may have. The sessions will be recorded and made available online afterwards.Ms Mary Ann Cauchi, Esplora Senior Director, said, “Through the STEAM Engagement Community Fund 2026, Esplora is strengthening its role beyond the walls of the science centre by bringing science, creativity and innovation closer to communities. This fund is an invitation for local organisations to transform ideas into meaningful projects that inspire curiosity, widen access to STEAM, and create lasting value for people of all ages across Malta and Gozo.” The fund guidelines, application details and information session links are available at https://esplora.org.mt/steam-engagement-community-fund-2026/.For further information, prospective applicants may contact the Esplora team by email at funds.esplora@gov.mt.•