Tista’ taqra bil-
Malti.
We often associate EU funds with large infrastructural projects that are the result of highly bureaucratic processes, usually managed by government entities. While it is true that access to EU funds may not be a straightforward procedure, such perception of EU funds must be challenged, as there are ample opportunities for EU funding for smaller organisations or individuals with limited resources.
Notably, the EU has allocated a €2.2 billion package for Malta and Gozo for the period 2021-2027. Such funds are being invested according to particular funding programmes, addressing specific sectors, in line with EU priorities and with the areas in which our country requires growth or development with the aim to improve the quality of life of citizens.
Within this context, it is no surprise that EU funded initiatives are undertaken in various areas, including education, health, research, regional development, business, environment and climate change, social and inclusion projects, agriculture, maritime and fisheries, among many others. Significant funding is therefore available not just for large organisations or government entities, but also to small and medium-sized businesses, non-governmental and civil society organisations, young people, researchers, farmers, and fishers, to name a few. EU funds therefore enable such target groups to carry out relevant projects within their area of interest.
Government is committed towards simplifying and improving accessibility of EU funds particularly enhancing access to smaller organisations. In this regard, to ensure and maximise the uptake of EU funds for such purposes, Servizzi Ewropej f’Malta (SEM) has been designated as the entity providing information and support in relation to EU funds.
SEM offers a free personalised service to assist individuals or entities in identifying relevant EU funding opportunities, write a competitive application and provide guidance during project implementation. The Agency therefore offers a comprehensive, free-of-charge service to whoever may be interested in benefitting from EU funds – from application to implementation.
Throughout the years, SEM has assisted many individuals and entities to apply for and acquire EU funding for their projects. To name a few, the Agency has assisted local councils in town-twinning projects, in developing local community centres, in renovating public areas such as gardens and playgrounds, and in building rubble walls for rural roads. SEM has also assisted a myriad of non-governmental organisations that work with different sectors of society, such as those involved in sport, persons with disability and vulnerable groups. It has also assisted band clubs and cultural associations to improve their club facilities, purchase musical instruments, and embrace their locality’s culture.
Support provided does not stop at the level of local councils and entities. SEM has also assisted youths, students and teachers to carry out youth exchange projects, bringing together young people from different countries together for a particular purpose.
Cognisant that the implementation phase pertaining to EU funded initiatives may also pose challenges particularly within the context of small organisations, the agency also offers support during this stage. Several entities and individuals have also availed of this tailored guidance.
SEM is also committed to communicating information about EU funded projects, particularly when new funding opportunities arise. Information sessions are also organised throughout the year to provide information on specific EU funding programmes and calls. Such information sessions are complemented with capacity-building sessions aimed to better inform individuals and organisations to understand better the process involved in accessing EU funds and implementing EU funded projects.
Transforming a project idea into reality with EU funds begins with the first step. For more information or for further assistance, you may contact SEM via email on [email protected], by phone on 2779 7300, or through the website.
content supplied by Servizzi Ewropej f’Malta
