All semi-finalists for Malta Social Impact Awards selected
Twelve social initiatives have been selected to go through to the semi-finals of this year’s MSIA, an initiative run by Inspirasia Foundation and the Gasan Foundation. These initiatives are now in the running to win financial and non-financial support to develop sustainable initiatives that continue to change lives and have a positive social impact on our island.
All semi-finalists have embarked on a tailormade mentoring programme aimed at developing their social initiatives, focusing on their sustainability, impact and long-term vision. The mentoring programme kicked off with three workshops provided by TAKEOFF business incubator at the University of Malta. In addition, the semi-finalists are receiving further support from VISTAGE mentors and an MSIA judge they are paired with, as well as other professionals. Following the mentoring period, the semi-finalists will then present their initiatives to a panel of judges in January 2021 and those chosen to go through to the finals will receive further mentoring in preparation for the final event.
The MSIA 2020 Semi-Finalists are:
360Blue (by AquaBioTech Group)
Adopt a Grandparent (by Missio and Newsbook)
Charity Shops for the Community (by Inspire Foundation)
Dreams of Horses Indoor Facilities for Horse-Assisted Therapy (by Dreams of Horses Farm)
Empathizer (by Luke Laurenti)
Green Gyms Malta (by THRIVE)
Interpreter Unit (by Tama)
MWBA A Sport for All (by Malta Wheelchair Basketball Association)
St. Michael Hospice (by Hospice Malta)
Remote Learning and Learning Centre (by Migrant Offshore Aid Station MOAS)
Project Stop (by Cross Cultural International Foundation)
Walk and Talk (by Rachael Hollwey)
Over its past four editions, MSIA together with the support of local businesses and individuals has awarded over €350,000 in grants to thirteen winning initiatives, as well as additional non-financial support. These initiatives have had an impact on the lives of thousands of individuals in Malta, from children to the elderly, migrants and disadvantaged groups, as well as people suffering from mental or physical health issues.
Due to this year’s developments surrounding Covid-19, the MSIA final event, which is normally held at the end of each year, will now be held on the 13th of March 2021. The finalists will pitch at the MSIA 5th Edition Final Event and the winners will be awarded up to €50,000 in funding, as well as additional pro bono mentoring and advisory services.
“COVID-19 has affected everyone one way or another and the same can be said for social purpose organisations that are either struggling to get support or are needed even more given these unprecedented times. Both social and environmental organisations are even more crucial today and Malta Social Impact Awards will continue supporting the great work being done in Malta. With the event being held in March 2021 we are excited to be working with twelve fantastic organisations and initiatives that are making a difference and help them with mentoring, support and exposure that would hopefully also inspire other businesses and individuals to offer their skills and expertise or financial support”