The Translation Grant Programme encourages the translation of Lithuanian literature into foreign languages, it has been ongoing in Lithuania since 2001. The programme was first run by the public institution “Books from Lithuania”, but since 2010 the work has been continued by the Lithuanian Culture Institute. Over the 20 years since the establishment of the programme, it has supported the translation of 468 Lithuanian literary work into 39 languages.

Purpose of the Programme

The aim of the Translation Grant Programme is to promote Lithuanian literature abroad. Grants are available for the translation of fiction, nonfiction, poetry, drama, children’s and young adult books, as well as the translation of other important books and publications.
There are 3 grants available: The Books Translation Grant, The Illustrated Books (Children’s Picture Books and Graphic Novels) Grant and  The Sample Translation Grant.

Who can apply?

The Translation Grant Programme is open to foreign publishers for the translation of Lithuanian literature or literary works related to Lithuania.
Applications for support can only be made after the applicant has acquired the rights to the work and signed a contract with the translator.

When to apply?

Deadlines for the submission of applications are 1 April and 1 October.  All applications will be considered by an independent selection committee consisting of five experts.
Applications can be submitted by e-mail translationgrants@lithuanianculture.lt. Please wait for confirmation via e-mail, that your application is accepted.
The applicant will be informed of the committee’s decision within 6 weeks after the deadline.

What does the grant cover?

• The Books Translation Grant covers up to 100% of translation costs,
• The Illustrated Books (Children’s Picture Books & Graphic Novels) Grant covers up to 100% of translation costs and additional publishing costs to a maximum of 1000 EUR (copyright license, illustrations, editing, design, printing, etc.).

What must the Books Translation Grant application include?

• a completed application form,
• a copy of the contract with the owner of the rights,
• a copy of the contract with the translator,
• the translator’s qualifications (e.g. CV, previous translations),
• a brief presentation of the publishing house,
• a short cover letter justifying the proposed application.

What must the Illustrated Books (Children’s Picture Books and Graphic Novels) Grant application include?

• a completed application form,
• a copy of the contract with the owner of the rights,
• a copy of the contract with the translator (if translation costs are applied for),
• the translator’s qualifications (e.g. CV, previous translations) (if translation costs are applied for),
• a brief presentation of the publishing house,
• a short cover letter justifying the proposed application.

Acknowledgment

The Lithuanian Culture Institute must be acknowledged in connection with any publication for which funding has been received. The logo must appear on the publications with the following acknowledgement in your language:

If a Books Translation Grant is received, please use this sentence:

The translation of this book was supported by the Lithuanian Culture Institute

If an Illustrated Books (Children’s Picture Books and Graphic Novels) Grant is received, please use this sentence:

The publication of this book was supported by the Lithuanian Culture Institute

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For further information, please contact by e-mail translationgrants@lithuanianculture.lt