CFPs: Support for Foreign Publishers Publishing Latvian Literature

The Support for Foreign Publishers Publishing Latvian Literature is a grant programme that helps foreign publishers translate and publish Latvian literary works into other languages. Implemented by IWTH, the scheme provides funding of up to €2,000 per title, with higher support possible for exceptional projects that strongly promote Latvian literature internationally. The programme supports first-time translations across multiple literary genres and prioritizes quality, cultural relevance, and global reach.

Programme Overview

The Support for Foreign Publishers Publishing Latvian Literature programme is designed to increase international visibility of Latvian literature by encouraging foreign publishers to translate and publish works by Latvian authors.

The initiative aims to strengthen cultural exchange, expand the global readership of Latvian writing, and support high-quality literary translations into various languages.

The programme is implemented through a grant scheme organized by IWTH, which administers applications, evaluations, funding decisions, and reporting requirements.

Objectives of the Programme

The programme seeks to:

• Foster sustained interest in Latvian literature among foreign publishers

• Support high-quality translations of Latvian literary works

• Promote Latvian culture in the context of contemporary global issues

• Expand access to Latvian authors in international book markets

• Strengthen long-term cooperation between Latvian authors, translators, and foreign publishers

Eligible Genres and Types of Publications

Funding is available for previously unpublished translations of Latvian works in the following categories:

• Prose and fiction

• Poetry

• Drama and plays

• Non-fiction and journalism

• Literature for children and young adults

• Comics and graphic novels

• Classic Latvian literature

• Culturally or historically significant works relevant to current global contexts

Only first-time translations are eligible for support.

What Is Not Supported

The programme does not fund:

• eBooks or digital-only publications

• Republishing of previously translated or published works

• Additional print runs of already published books

• Projects that have already been completed before application

Who Is Eligible?

Eligible Applicants

Applications are open to foreign publishers that:

• Are registered legal entities outside Latvia

• Have prior experience publishing works by foreign authors

• Are professionally active in the book publishing sector

• Hold or can obtain the necessary publishing and translation rights

Translation Eligibility

• The translation must be previously unpublished

• A professional translator must be contracted

• An edited translation excerpt must be submitted with the application

Funding Amount and Financial Support

• Maximum grant amount: €2,000 per application

• Higher funding may be awarded to exceptional projects with outstanding artistic quality and strong international promotion potential

• Funding supports book publishing-related costs, as outlined in the approved budget

The accuracy and realism of the proposed budget are key evaluation criteria.

How to Apply: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Prepare Required Documents

Applicants must prepare the following documents in English:

• Completed official application form

• Detailed project budget

• Edited translation excerpt with the original Latvian text

• Translator’s CV

• Copy of the publisher’s agreement with the copyright holder

• Copy of the contract with the translator

• Recent publisher catalogue or a link to the publisher’s publication list (recommended)

All documents requiring signatures must be scanned and uploaded.

Step 2: Submit the Application

• Applications must be submitted through the IWTH website

• All forms must be completed in English

• Late or incomplete applications are not accepted

Step 3: Await Evaluation Results

• Applications are reviewed by an expert committee appointed by IWTH

• The evaluation follows clear procedures to ensure transparency and avoid conflicts of interest

• Successful applicants are notified by email and via publication of results on the IWTH website

Step 4: Sign the Grant Agreement

• Selected publishers must sign the grant agreement within the specified timeframe

• Failure to sign on time may result in loss of funding

How Applications Are Evaluated

Applications are assessed based on:

• Compliance with programme guidelines

• Completeness and quality of submitted documentation

• Literary quality of the original work

• Quality and accuracy of the translation

• Cultural and historical relevance of the publication

• Translation language and its potential international reach

• Professional status and experience of the publisher

• Accuracy and justification of the budget

Applications that fail to meet eligibility rules or concern already implemented projects are automatically rejected.

Post-Grant Obligations and Reporting

After completing the publishing project, grant recipients must submit a final report that includes:

• Financial report with proof of payments

• Cover image of the published book

• Four printed copies of the published translation

All reporting must strictly follow the conditions outlined in the grant agreement.

Failure to meet reporting deadlines or requirements may lead to cancellation of the grant.

Acknowledgement and Visibility Requirements

Publishers receiving funding must:

• Acknowledge the support using the specified wording in the publication

• Include the Latvian Literature platform logo where possible

• Ensure proper visibility of the programme in promotional materials

Publishers remain fully responsible for fulfilling all contractual and programme obligations.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Submitting projects involving previously published translations

• Applying for eBooks or reprints

• Providing incomplete contracts or unsigned documents

• Submitting unedited or low-quality translation excerpts

• Inaccurate or unrealistic budgeting

• Missing application or reporting deadlines

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Who manages the Support for Foreign Publishers Publishing Latvian Literature?

The programme is implemented and administered by IWTH.

2. Can digital or eBook publications be funded?

No. Only print publications of previously unpublished translations are eligible.

3. Is there a maximum funding limit?

Yes. The standard maximum grant is €2,000, with higher funding possible for exceptional projects.

4. Can publishers apply with multiple titles?

Each application is assessed individually. Publishers should follow IWTH guidelines regarding multiple submissions.

5. What languages are eligible for translation?

Any language is eligible, provided it demonstrates strong potential international reach.

6. What happens if reporting requirements are not met?

Failure to comply may result in cancellation of the grant or exclusion from future funding rounds.

7. How are successful applicants informed?

Results are communicated by email and published on the IWTH website.

Conclusion

The Support for Foreign Publishers Publishing Latvian Literature programme plays a vital role in bringing Latvian voices to global audiences. By funding high-quality first-time translations, the initiative strengthens international cultural exchange and promotes Latvian literary heritage worldwide.

For foreign publishers seeking to expand their catalogue with distinctive European literature, this programme offers targeted financial support, clear evaluation criteria, and long-term cultural impact.