The Minister for Economy, Investment, and Strategic Projects, Silvio Schembri, along with the Parliamentary Secretary for Youth, Research, and Innovation, Keith Azzopardi Tanti, have launched two research schemes with combined funding exceeding €1.3 million.
Following the signing of an agreement between the Malta Digital Innovation Authority (MDIA) and the Malta Council for Science and Technology (MCST), a funding program of up to €1.2 million over a two-year period has been announced to support digital projects at their inception or applied research initiatives.
Additionally, MDIA will issue another call for an applied research grant totaling €120,000. This particular call is unique in that it will not only focus on artificial intelligence but also on other innovative technologies.
Minister Silvio Schembri commented, “As a committed Government, we continue to collaborate to provide support in addressing both current and future economic challenges. It is gratifying to witness the results of this collaboration between Government entities, achieved through concerted efforts for greater success.”
Parliamentary Secretary Keith Azzopardi Tanti explained that through this collaborative initiative, Maltese researchers will benefit from MDIA’s technical expertise and MCST’s administrative experience in implementing research and innovation programs.
“With these initiatives, we are establishing a framework where Maltese researchers and entrepreneurs can truly develop their innovative ideas within a specialized environment tailored to their specific needs. We are dedicated to ensuring that this sectoral specialization receives the necessary incentives to strengthen all innovative sectors that drive the Maltese economy,” concluded Parliamentary Secretary Azzopardi Tanti.
MDIA CEO Kenneth Brincat emphasized, “Today’s initiatives reflect the intensive efforts underway to ensure that Malta remains well-prepared for the future, as technology continues to evolve at an accelerated pace. This underscores the diverse nature of technology use and highlights the ongoing need to provide financial support for the development of these innovative technologies.”
MCST Chairman Dr. Tonio Portughese stated, “As a Council committed to enhancing cooperation and collaboration with private entities, public authorities, NGOs, as well as educational and research institutions in our country, this initiative will create opportunities for everyone to benefit, particularly in the sectors and areas for which we, as a Council, are responsible.”
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