The Parliamentary Secretary for Youth, Research and Innovation, Keith Azzopardi Tanti, has launched three major funding schemes for 2026 - BOOST, INVEST, and Youth Music Training in Band Clubs - aimed at supporting youth organisations and movements across Malta and Gozo.
Managed by Aġenzija Żgħażagħ, these initiatives are key elements of the Government's ongoing efforts to create a more inclusive and participatory society. A total of €868,000 will be invested: €400,000 for the BOOST scheme, €90,000 for the music training programme in band clubs, and €378,000 over three years for the INVEST scheme.
The BOOST scheme provides up to €3,000 per organisation to purchase resources that improve the quality of work with young people, while the Youth Music Training in Band Clubs programme offers up to €2,500 to clubs for musical instruments or tuition fees. The INVEST scheme, on the other hand, provides operational grants to help organisations cover costs related to staff recruitment and long-term development.
Parliamentary Secretary Azzopardi Tanti said these initiatives highlight the Government's vision of placing young people at the centre of public policy. "When we invest in these programmes, we are investing in the future of our country," he said, emphasising the role of youth organisations and band clubs as vital community spaces where young people can grow, innovate and feel a sense of belonging.
He added that the schemes also form part of the implementation of the National Youth Policy, which focuses on expanding and strengthening support for voluntary youth organisations across the country.
Aġenzija Żgħażagħ Chief Executive Miriam Teuma thanked the National Band Clubs Association for its continued collaboration, noting that these initiatives are giving new life to communities across Malta and Gozo. "The BOOST and INVEST schemes, together with the music training programme, are providing spaces where young people can materialise their ideas and make a tangible difference," she said.
Applications for the BOOST and Band Club Music Training schemes open on 12 January 2026 at noon and close on 19 January, or earlier if funds are exhausted, on a first come, first served basis via vofunding.org.mt. Applications for the INVEST scheme remain open until 19 November 2025.