Deadline: 23-Apr-2026
The Translation of Swedish Literature and Drama Grant supports the translation and international circulation of high-quality Swedish literature and drama into other languages. Managed by the Swedish Arts Council, the programme prioritizes literary quality, Nordic language exchange, children’s literature, and lesser-used languages, with applications accepted year-round and assessed three times annually.
Programme Overview
The Translation of Swedish Literature and Drama Grant is a cultural funding programme designed to increase the publication and circulation of Swedish literature and drama in other Nordic and international languages. The grant supports both contemporary works and classics, strengthening cross-border literary exchange and access to Swedish cultural expression.
The programme is administered by the Swedish Arts Council through its International Cooperation Division and evaluated by an external expert committee.
Objectives and Priorities
The grant focuses on promoting high-quality literary translation and expanding the reach of Swedish authors and works.
Key priorities include:
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Translations of Swedish contemporary literature and literary classics
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High literary and linguistic quality across all genres
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Introduction of Swedish authors into new languages and markets
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Literature for children and young adults
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Translations into lesser-used and minority languages
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Works linked to the Nordic Council Literature Prize
Eligible Languages and Source Texts
Funding is available for translations from:
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Swedish
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Sweden’s national minority languages
Translations must normally be made directly from the original language. Exceptions are allowed only with prior approval.
Eligible Genres
The programme supports a wide range of literary forms published in book format:
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Prose fiction
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Poetry
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Essays and general cultural non-fiction
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Drama published as books
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Picture books
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Comics and graphic novels
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Literature for children, young adults, and adults
Funding Coverage and Limits
The grant supports:
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Translation costs, or
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Translation costs plus limited production costs
Production cost support is capped at SEK 20,000 and applies only to particularly costly publications such as:
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Illustrated books
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Poetry collections
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Comics and graphic novels
The following costs are not covered:
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Copyright and licensing fees
Publishers must always pay the translator the full agreed translation fee, regardless of grant amount.
Who Is Eligible to Apply?
Eligible applicants are:
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Professional publishing houses based in Nordic countries
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Publishers with documented experience in quality publishing
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Publishers with established distribution channels
Applicants must also submit a clear and realistic distribution plan for the translated work.
Why This Grant Matters
This programme strengthens Nordic cultural cooperation, supports professional translators, and increases global access to Swedish literature. It plays a key role in preserving linguistic diversity, promoting minority languages, and ensuring that high-quality literary works reach new audiences.
How the Application Process Works
Applications must be submitted before printing or publication of the book. Printing cannot begin until results are announced.
Application process steps:
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Prepare one application per literary work
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Complete the online application form
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Attach signed contracts with the rights holder and the translator
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Upload a copy of the original work
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Provide documentation of the translator’s previous translations from Swedish
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Submit the application online
Applications are accepted year-round and assessed three times annually.
Evaluation and Decision Timeline
Applications are reviewed by an external expert committee. Final decisions are made by the Director of the International Cooperation Division at the Swedish Arts Council.
Applicants, translators, and rights holders are notified of decisions by mail approximately eight weeks after the relevant deadline.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Submitting applications after the book has been printed
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Missing signed contracts with translators or rights holders
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Incomplete documentation of translator experience
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Applying for copyright or licensing costs, which are ineligible
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Failing to correct incomplete applications within the specified timeframe
Incomplete applications that are not corrected on time cannot be processed in the current evaluation round.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply after the book is printed?
No. Applications must be submitted and approved before printing or publication begins.
How many works can I submit in one application?
Only one literary work is allowed per application.
Are publishers outside the Nordic countries eligible?
No. Only professional publishing houses based in Nordic countries may apply.
Are copyright and licensing fees covered?
No. Copyright and licensing costs are not eligible for funding.
How often are applications reviewed?
Applications are assessed three times per year on a rolling basis.
Can production costs be included in the grant?
Yes, but only in limited cases and up to a maximum of SEK 20,000.
When will I receive the decision?
Decisions are communicated approximately eight weeks after the application deadline.
Conclusion
The Translation of Swedish Literature and Drama Grant is a key funding opportunity for Nordic publishers seeking to bring Swedish literature to new linguistic and cultural contexts. By supporting high-quality translations, professional publishing standards, and broad distribution, the programme strengthens international literary exchange and ensures Swedish voices reach readers worldwide.
For more information, visit Swedish Arts Council.
