Xjenza Malta has officially launched the Access2Partnerships (A2P) Scheme, a pioneering national initiative introduced during an event attended by members of the press and key stakeholders from the research and innovation (R&I) community.
The A2P Scheme offers an unprecedented opportunity for Malta-based researchers and innovators to participate in transnational R&I projects within a broad range of Horizon Europe Partnerships, even where Malta is not a formal funding partner.
With funding of up to €300,000 per project, the scheme aims to strengthen Malta’s R&I ecosystem by fostering international collaboration and supporting high-impact research in strategic areas such as health, climate, energy and mobility, digital technologies, food and bioeconomy, natural resources, and the environment.
While Xjenza Malta already participates in several Horizon Europe Partnerships—including Transforming Health and Care Systems, Clean Energy Transition, and the Sustainable Blue Economy—resource limitations have prevented broader national involvement. The A2P Scheme was developed to bridge this gap and open new avenues for local talent.
Mr Silvio Scerri, CEO of Xjenza Malta, stated: “The A2P Scheme is a testament to Xjenza Malta’s commitment to expanding the country’s role in the European R&I landscape. Funded locally, it creates a new support pillar for both public and private entities in Malta, enabling broader and more inclusive participation in Horizon Europe Partnerships. This launch marks another concrete step by the Government and Xjenza Malta to build a more future-ready and resilient R&I sector.”
Dr Maria Azzopardi, Director of the Internationalisation Unit at Xjenza Malta, added: “Through national funding, Xjenza Malta is opening access to international R&I opportunities that were previously beyond reach for local stakeholders. The A2P Scheme is designed to support and nurture the excellence of research teams working in highly specialised and strategically relevant niche R&I areas. By enabling their participation in international partnerships, we are unlocking untapped talent and ensuring that Malta’s valuable research potential is not left behind.”
The A2P Scheme will remain open until the end of 2025, or until allocated funds are fully committed—whichever comes first.
With this initiative, Xjenza Malta reaffirms its support for research excellence and international collaboration, particularly in underrepresented areas, paving the way for a more connected and competitive national R&I community.
Apply now: Access2 Partnerships (A2P) Scheme 2025 – Xjenza Malta
