EU funding for the Maltese sports sector and its financial implications

Abstract

Purpose: The dissertation aims to analyse the EU funding available for the Maltese sports sector and studies the schemes that these organisations have benefitted from. This research also analyses the EU funding application process and the financial implications to such entities. This research also analyses whether local sports organisations are aware of the EU funding opportunities and identifies any recommendations relating to the application process. Design: The objectives of this study were achieved through a mix of 9 semi-structured interviews with sports organisations that benefitted from EU funding and 39 questionnaires with sports organisations which never applied for EU funding or there application was not successful. Findings: There are only few sports organisations which have applied and benefitted under the schemes available, resulting from lack of awareness. Furthermore sports organisations do not have the necessary human resources in order to apply efficiently for EU funding and hence found the application process slightly complex. Additionally sports organisations feel that a higher allocation of EU funding should be allocated to the Maltese sports sector. Conclusion: The study concludes that there should be an increase in the promotion and allocation of EU funding for the Maltese sports sector in order to encourage more sports organisations to benefit from these funds.