The annual fund has been launched for Maltese fireworks factories working on a voluntary basis. Managed by Arts Council Malta, a total of €170,000 is allocated for this year. Each fireworks factory can benefit from a €5,000 grant, all of which can be put to infrastructural use.

The aim of the fund, which is in its fourth year, is to improve safety in fireworks factories both during the manufacturing process as well as during the letting off of the fireworks, the government said.

The grant is intended for volunteers to invest in training, development, and resources to improve the safety of the Maltese pyrotechnical systems and the betterment of the final product, “especially due to the prominent role this industry plays in Maltese culture,” it said.

The fund was launched by Minister for National Heritage, Arts and Local Government José Herrera and Arts Council Malta Executive Chair Albert Marshall.

“Fireworks are not just a part of our local cultural heritage, they bring together a community of enthusiasts who on a daily basis work to produce pyrotechnical shows of the highest standards, and we should always seek to support their efforts by investing in the infrastructure needed to improve important elements such as safety,” said Minister Herrera.

It was explained that to qualify for this fund, the fireworks factories are required to come up with ideas and proposals to upgrade and improve the infrastructure of the fireworks factories by investing in machinery and tools which facilitate the manufacture of fireworks and make the process safer; invest in equipment which improves safety during the letting off of fireworks; engage in training and development of resources related to the safety of fireworks; as well as to foster better synergy between Maltese fireworks factories.

The fund is open to licensed fireworks factories registered as voluntary organisations. In the case of fireworks factories forming part of band clubs, the band club needs to be registered as a voluntary organisation.

All eligible applications will be evaluated by a board of evaluators according to the established and published guidelines.

Guidelines on how to apply for the fund offering financial support to Maltese fireworks factories working on a voluntary basis are available at www.artscouncil.mt.

All applications are being received only online until the 18th of June. For support and assistance, please call 23347230 or email fundinfo@artscouncil.mt.

Photo by Alain Salvary

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