The Interactive Science Centre Esplora has launched the Young Researchers' Grant 2026, a new initiative aimed at encouraging young people to pursue scientific research by giving them the opportunity to carry out real research projects from an early age, the Ministry for Justice, Research and Innovation said in a statement.
The grant scheme, which opened on Wednesday 26 August, is available to Maltese citizens and holders of a Maltese residence permit aged between 13 and 21. Applicants can apply individually or in teams of up to three people.
The programme is divided into two age categories - Seed Explorers (13-17) and Bloom Explorers (18-21) - with both groups receiving the same level of support.
Esplora expects to fund between 15 and 18 projects during the scheme's first edition. Each successful participant will be paired with a researcher or mentor, either proposed by the applicants themselves or identified with Esplora's assistance.
Projects will be eligible for up to €700 to cover research-related expenses, including materials, equipment, software and fieldwork travel. Mentors may receive up to €1,000 separately in recognition of their guidance. Participants will also benefit from practical training covering transferable research skills.
The research projects may focus on a broad range of scientific fields, including marine science, astronomy, technology, health and the environment. Each project will run for 12 months, allowing participants time to investigate research questions of their choice.
Speaking at the launch, Justice, Research and Innovation Minister Clifton Grima said the fund reflects the government's commitment to strengthening Malta's research capacity from an early stage, rather than focusing solely on universities and industry.
"We must encourage young people to question and explore the world around them, and this fund will help them do exactly that," Grima said. "Malta's future in research and innovation cannot be built solely at university or industry level. It must begin by nurturing curiosity among adolescents and young people through real, hands-on research experience."
Esplora Senior Director Mary-Ann Cauchi said the initiative gives young people the chance not only to learn about research but to become researchers themselves by asking questions, testing ideas, gathering evidence and sharing their findings.
She said the programme also strengthens links between young researchers and Malta's wider STEAM community by pairing each participant with a mentor from the country's research and professional sectors.
During the launch event, Esplora Research and Funding Executive Sarah Schembri led a discussion featuring students Nathan Camilleri and Michaela Borg Cardona, who shared their views on research and the types of projects young people could undertake through the grant. MCAST lecturer Kevin Theuma also addressed the event, highlighting the value of combining practical experience with traditional classroom learning.
An online information session will be held on 2 September at 5pm. Applications close on 21 October, while successful applicants will be announced on 21 November 2026.
Prospective applicants are encouraged to attend the information session to learn more about the scheme and ask questions. Full guidelines and the online application form will be available on Esplora's website.