Deadline: 15-May-26
The Translation Grants Programme supports the translation, publication, and international dissemination of Lithuanian literature. Managed by the Lithuanian Culture Institute and funded by the Lithuanian state, the programme helps publishers in Lithuania and abroad bring Lithuanian authors, cultural works, and children’s books to global audiences.
What is the Translation Grants Programme?
The Translation Grants Programme is a funding initiative that promotes the global translation and publication of Lithuanian literature.
Its purpose is to help publishers translate and publish Lithuanian works in other languages, making them accessible to readers worldwide. The programme supports both fiction and non-fiction and covers a wide range of literary genres.
What Does the Programme Support?
The programme funds projects that translate, publish, and promote Lithuanian literature internationally.
Eligible literary categories include:
- Prose
- Poetry
- Drama
- Documentary writing
- Children’s literature
- Illustrated books
- Graphic novels
- Fiction and non-fiction by Lithuanian authors
- Works by authors of Lithuanian descent
- Books related to Lithuanian culture, history, and artists
This broad scope makes the programme valuable for publishers interested in literary translation, cultural publishing, and international rights development.
Why This Programme Matters
The programme has been a major tool for promoting Lithuanian literature globally.
Key impact:
- Nearly 600 translated books supported
- Published in 43 languages
- Operated successfully over several decades
- Annual funding allocation of EUR 100,000
This makes it one of the most important public funding opportunities for publishers seeking support for translated literature from Lithuania.
Who is Eligible?
The programme is open to publishers and publishing-related legal entities.
Eligible applicants include:
- Publishers based in Lithuania
- Publishers based outside Lithuania
- Other legal entities engaged in publishing activities outside Lithuania
To qualify, applicants should plan to publish a translated work of Lithuanian literature in their own country or market.
How Funding Works
Funding is awarded through a competitive application process.
Call frequency:
- Calls are published at least twice a year
Funding structure depends on publication timing:
1. If the book is published in the same year as the grant award
- A one-stage agreement is signed
- The full grant amount is paid after project completion
- Payment is made after:
- Final reports are submitted
- Required documentation is approved
- Six copies of the publication are delivered
2. If the book will be published in a later year
- A two-stage agreement is used
- Up to 60% of the grant is paid first
- The remaining balance is paid after:
- Final reporting
- Submission of required documents
- Delivery of six publication copies
How to Apply
Applicants should prepare all materials before starting the application.
Important note:
- Incomplete applications are not saved
- It is best to collect all documents in advance
Required application materials:
- A short presentation of the publishing house
- A list of translations published in the last two years
- Information on distribution channels and partners
- A description of planned marketing activities
- A justification of the project’s relevance
- Details on the translator’s qualifications
- The translator’s motivation for the project
Tips for a Strong Application
To improve your chances:
- Show why the selected work is relevant for your market
- Highlight strong distribution and sales channels
- Include a clear marketing and promotion plan
- Demonstrate the translator’s experience and literary fit
- Explain how the book will help expand access to Lithuanian literature internationally
- Make sure all required documents are complete before submission
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Starting the form without all materials ready
- Submitting an incomplete application
- Giving weak details about distribution strategy
- Not clearly explaining the project’s market relevance
- Providing limited information about the translator
- Ignoring promotion and dissemination planning
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the Translation Grants Programme?
It is a funding programme that supports the translation, publication, and international promotion of Lithuanian literature.
2. Who manages the programme?
The programme is funded by the Lithuanian state and administered by the Lithuanian Culture Institute.
3. Who can apply?
Eligible applicants include:
- Publishers in Lithuania
- International publishers
- Other legal entities outside Lithuania involved in publishing
4. How often are calls announced?
Calls for applications are published at least twice per year.
5. What kinds of books are supported?
The programme supports:
- Prose
- Poetry
- Drama
- Documentary writing
- Children’s books
- Illustrated books
- Graphic novels
- Fiction and non-fiction related to Lithuanian authors, culture, and history
6. How is the grant paid?
Payment depends on publication timing:
- Same-year publication: Full payment after completion and reporting
- Later-year publication: Up to 60% upfront, with the rest after final reporting
7. What documents are required?
Applicants need to submit publishing house details, recent translation history, distribution and marketing information, project relevance, and translator qualifications/motivation.
Conclusion
The Translation Grants Programme is a strong opportunity for publishers looking to bring Lithuanian literature to international readers. With support for multiple genres, regular calls, and a proven record of nearly 600 translated books in 43 languages, it offers meaningful backing for literary translation, publishing, and cultural exchange.
For more information, visit Lithuanian Culture Institute.
