Awards and Contributions to Translations of Italian Works (Zambia)

The Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation offers grants and prizes to promote Italian literature, science, and audiovisual culture globally. The program supports translation, international publication, dubbing, subtitling, and audiovisual production, enabling cultural dissemination and enhancing the global reach of Italian works.

Program Overview

The program aims to:

• Promote translation and international publication of Italian literary and scientific works.

• Encourage audiovisual production, dubbing, and subtitling of Italian films and TV series for foreign audiences.

• Strengthen global dissemination of Italian language and culture.

• Support contemporary Italian literature, non-fiction, and scientific works with cultural impact abroad.

Incentive Types

1. Contributions – Financial support for projects planned or executed after 1 July 2026, covering:

   • Translation and publication of literary and scientific works, including digital formats (e-books).

   • Production, dubbing, or subtitling of audiovisual works for mass media.

   • Funds are disbursed after proof of publication or production, and works must be published within three years of receiving the contribution.

2. Prizes – Recognition awards of €5,000 each, with up to ten prizes available in the 2026 cycle.

Who is Eligible?

Eligible applicants include:

• Publishers and translators

• Production and distribution companies

• Dubbing and subtitling companies

• Literary agents or agencies

• Cultural institutions located in Italy or abroad

Applicants must indicate the beneficiary, i.e., the publishing house, company, or cultural institution that holds or intends to acquire the rights to publish or produce the work in a foreign language.

How to Apply

1. Identify the project: translation, publication, or audiovisual production of Italian works.

2. Confirm the rights holder (publisher, company, or cultural institution).

3. Complete the official application form in Italian, English, or Spanish.

4. Submit the application through the Italian Embassy in the applicant’s country or, where available, through the local Italian Cultural Institute.

5. Include all required supporting documentation.

6. Ensure submission by 31 March 2026.

Applications will be evaluated by diplomatic representations abroad and assessed by the Consultative Working Group for the Promotion of Italian Culture and Language Abroad within the Ministry.

Tips for Applicants

• Clearly demonstrate the cultural significance and international impact of the project.

• Ensure all rights and permissions for publication or production are documented.

• Include all required documentation in the requested languages.

• For contributions, plan the timeline to complete publication or production within three years.

FAQs

1. Can applications be submitted directly to the Ministry?
No, applications must be submitted via the Italian Embassy or the local Italian Cultural Institute.

2. Are digital publications eligible?
Yes, digital formats such as e-books are eligible for contributions.

3. Who can receive the prize or contribution?
Eligible recipients include publishers, translators, production/distribution companies, literary agents, dubbing/subtitling companies, and cultural institutions.

4. What is the funding amount for prizes?
Each prize is valued at €5,000, with up to ten prizes awarded.

5. When must the funded work be published or produced?
All works supported through contributions must be published or produced within three years from the grant award date.

6. Can a project apply for both contributions and prizes?
Yes, but applications must clearly specify the type of support requested and meet the relevant criteria.

7. In which languages can the application be submitted?
Applications can be submitted in Italian, English, or Spanish.

Conclusion

The Italian Language and Culture Promotion Program offers a unique opportunity for publishers, cultural institutions, and media producers worldwide to engage with Italian literature, science, and audiovisual works. By supporting translation, international publication, and media adaptations, the initiative strengthens Italy’s global cultural presence and fosters cross-cultural exchange.