Corporate Social Responsibility – where companies voluntarily take actions to contribute positively to society and the environment – is not simply a marketing opportunity. It is a chance for businesses to go beyond their legal responsibilities and reinforce the social fabric in which they operate.
IMalta has a long tradition of giving. Certainly, during the Order of St John’s long rule over the islands, there were several charitable initiatives, not least the healthcare operations conducted in line with the Knights’ original mission as Hospitallers. Still, according to this report by the Academy of Givers, companies didn’t start to implement a CSR strategy until the late 20th century, with Playmobil, HSBC and Vodafone establishing strategies as part of their overall operations.
According to the Academy of Givers, which surveyed 54 businesses in Malta on their CSR practices, nearly half respondents (47.62 per cent) allocate less than €20,000 annually, while 16.67 per cent report no CSR budget at all.
In 2025, it is as important as ever to give back. Whether this is project-specific, long term support, or employee initiatives, there are plenty of initiatives to support. Here is an indefinite list of some of sectors to consider.
1. Arts, culture and heritage
According to the Academy of Givers, this is the number one sector that businesses in Malta contribute to, and with reason. The right to culture has become a cornerstone of Arts Council Malta’s strategy. Art should not be a luxury and your business can contribute to that through longterm support of artists, contributions to restorations, etc. Artists reflect society back at us, and art is essential for critical thinking. Investing in our heritage is investing in our past and future generations.
Supporting the arts ensures that creativity and history remain accessible to all. Din l-Art Ħelwa works to preserve Malta’s architectural heritage through restoration projects. Fondazzjoni Kreattività nurtures emerging talent, and Wirt Artna safeguards historical sites like wartime fortifications. Investing in culture enriches national identity and fosters critical thinking.
2. Environment
Protecting Malta’s environment is vital for future generations. Profits don’t mean as much when you can’t enjoy them outside of your home and office. There are countless organisations to support here. Moviment Graffitti fights to protect the environment and human rights, while Żibel organises beach cleanups and campaigns against plastic pollution. Waves of Change Malta, founded by swimmer Neil Agius, promotes ocean conservation. Nature Trust Malta focuses on habitat restoration, and BirdLife Malta works to protect migratory birds. Businesses can make a tangible difference through sponsorships, employee cleanups, or sustainable practices.
3. Education
Nelson Mandela once said that education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world. Having education as a pillar in which your business gives back is a great way to help shape society for the better. The Inspire Foundation provides inclusive education for children with disabilities, while Malta Trust Foundation empowers at-risk youth through scholarships and vocational training. JA Malta (Junior Achievement) teaches entrepreneurship in schools, and The Edward de Bono Institute promotes creative thinking skills. Supporting education helps bridge social gaps and fosters innovation.
4. Health and disability
Mental health NGOs like Richmond Foundation are not the only organisation that provide lifes changing help for people. Puttinu Cares assists families of children with cancer, with The Community Chest Fund, under the Office of the President, aids various medical causes, and Dar tal-Providenza provides lifelong care for people with disabilities. Corporate donations can fund treatments, research, or accessibility projects as a meaningful way to give back.
5.Social services/Community development
Fighting poverty strengthens communities. There are several NGOs doing life-changing work here, and your business can opt to give funds or have a volunteering team building event to support their actions. The Foodbank Lifeline Foundation distributes food to struggling families, while Caritas Malta offers shelter, addiction support, and job training. YMCA Malta helps homeless individuals, and Fondazzjoni Suret il-Bniedem combats social exclusion.
6. Animal welfare
Animal shelters rely on public support. Why not sponsor vet bills, organise adoption drives or volunteer at shelters? The MSPCA Malta rescues and rehomes abandoned pets, while Noah’s Ark Dog Sanctuary provides a haven for stray dogs. Happy Paws focuses on adoption campaigns, and Alley Cat Rescue Malta cares for feral cats.
7. Sports
A survey in 2022 found that only 7 per cent people in Malta exercise regularly, a 4 per cent decrease when compared to 2017. Investing in sports can not only mean supporting people at the top of their leagues, but giving people, or even your own staff, more opportunity to get into sports. Malta Olympic Committee supports elite and grassroots athletes, while Special Olympics Malta promotes inclusive sports for people with disabilities. Malta Football Association (MFA) Foundation develops youth programmes. Businesses can sponsor teams, fund facilities, or organise corporate sports events.
8. Humanitarian and overseas intervention
There are countless initiatives abroad that support the lives of people in humanitarian crises – from Palestine to Congo, a quick online search will help you select one cause or more. Companies can fund emergency aid or partner with verified international charities, but be careful about verifying international charities before supporting. In Malta, Maltese Red Cross provides disaster relief locally and internationally, while Mission Fund Malta supports Maltese missionaries in developing nations. Kopin advocates for global justice and sustainable development.
9. Youth
One way to give back is to give forward, to the next generations of trailblazers. Youth organisations are a plenty, such as Aġenzija Żgħażagħ, which funds youth programmes, while Malta Youth Council (KNŻ) represents young voices in policymaking. PRISMS Malta supports neuro-divergent youth with education and employment opportunities. Mentorship programs and scholarships are impactful ways to contribute.
10. Band clubs
Why not build a relationship with your local band club? By supporting local intangible heritage you an active part of the town where you are based, which can surely only be a good thing. Band clubs are the heart of Maltese villages. Organisations like Għaqda Każini tal-Banda for example preserve this tradition, while local clubs, such as La Stella (Valletta) or St. Joseph (Ħamrun) organise cultural events.
CSR is a powerful tool for positive change. Whether through financial support, employee volunteering, or long-term partnerships, businesses in Malta can make a lasting impact. By choosing causes aligned with their values, companies not only give back but also build stronger connections with their community. Which sector will your business support?
She steps into the new role effective immediately.
Panellists highlighted Malta’s potential as a destination for private capital, citing its English-speaking workforce, regulatory accessibility, and strategic location.
He has built experience in management accounting, corporate finance, and mergers and acquisitions.
Mr Drago is taking over from Svetlana Maslova, bringing over 38 years of banking experience.