Deadline: 02-Sep-2026
The International Translation Grant under the Arts Across Canada and Abroad program provides funding to support the translation of Canadian literary and dramatic works for international publication and presentation. Eligible organizations, foreign publishers, and theatres can receive up to CAD 20,000 for translation costs and CAD 2,000 for promotional activities, helping Canadian authors reach audiences worldwide.
About the International Translation Grant
The International Translation Grant is offered through the Arts Across Canada and Abroad program to increase the global visibility of Canadian literature and theatre. The program supports the translation of Canadian-authored works into foreign languages, making Canadian stories, ideas, and artistic expression accessible to international readers and audiences.
By funding literary translations, theatrical translations, and surtitling, the grant strengthens cultural exchange, expands international publishing opportunities, and creates new partnerships between Canadian creators and organizations abroad.
The program also encourages international publishers and theatres to introduce Canadian works to new markets while promoting Canada’s diverse artistic voices worldwide.
Program Objectives
The International Translation Grant aims to:
- Increase the international reach of Canadian literature and theatre.
- Support professional translation of Canadian-authored works.
- Promote Canadian culture in global markets.
- Encourage international publication and stage presentation.
- Strengthen partnerships between Canadian creators and international organizations.
- Expand access to Canadian artistic works through multilingual editions and performances.
Funding Overview
Applicants may receive funding for translation and eligible promotional activities.
Funding includes:
- Up to CAD 20,000 for translation costs.
- Up to CAD 2,000 for eligible promotional expenses.
- Maximum total funding of CAD 44,000 per calendar year across this program.
Funding amounts depend on the project type and eligible expenses.
What Types of Projects Are Supported?
The grant supports projects such as:
- Translation of Canadian-authored literary works into foreign languages.
- Translation of Canadian-authored dramatic works for international performances.
- Surtitling of Canadian theatre productions for audiences speaking another language.
- International publication of translated Canadian books.
- International theatrical presentation of translated Canadian plays.
- Promotional activities supporting translated literary works.
Projects should clearly demonstrate how they will increase international access to Canadian artistic works.
Eligible Activities
Funding may support:
- Literary translation for international publication.
- Translation of theatre scripts.
- Surtitling for live dramatic performances.
- International book promotion.
- Marketing and outreach activities for translated literary works.
- Activities that connect Canadian artists with global audiences.
Who Can Apply?
Eligible applicants include:
- Artistic groups.
- Artistic organizations.
- Supporting organizations.
- First Nations, Inuit, or Métis groups or collectives.
- First Nations, Inuit, or Métis not-for-profit organizations.
- Foreign publishers.
- Foreign theatres.
Canadian publishers are not eligible to apply under this funding opportunity.
Eligible Translation Projects
Applicants may request funding for:
Literary Works
- Translation of Canadian-authored books into a foreign language.
- Publication of translated editions outside Canada.
- Promotional activities supporting translated publications.
Dramatic Works
- Translation of Canadian-authored plays.
- Surtitling for international performances.
- Presentation of translated productions outside Canada.
Projects should demonstrate a clear plan for publication or public presentation.
Funding for Literary vs. Dramatic Works
Support differs depending on the project type.
For Literary Works
The grant may support:
- Up to 50% of the translator’s professional fee.
- Eligible promotional activities for the translated publication.
For Dramatic Works
The grant may support:
- Up to 100% of eligible translator fees.
- Translation and surtitling costs required for international performances.
Eligible Expenses
Funding may cover:
- Professional translation fees.
- Surtitling costs.
- Promotional activities.
- Translation services based on standard rates in the applicant’s country.
- Expenses directly related to eligible translation activities.
Only reasonable and eligible costs outlined in the program guidelines may be funded.
Ineligible Activities
The grant does not support:
- Translation of literary works into English.
- Translation of literary works into French.
- Translation or subtitling of films.
- Translation or subtitling of videos.
- Projects that do not involve Canadian-authored literary or dramatic works.
- Applications from Canadian publishers.
Applicants should carefully review program guidelines before applying.
Why This Grant Matters
The International Translation Grant helps Canadian creators expand their international presence by:
- Increasing global access to Canadian literature.
- Supporting multilingual publishing.
- Encouraging international theatrical collaborations.
- Promoting cultural diversity.
- Expanding international readership.
- Building long-term partnerships with foreign publishers and theatres.
- Strengthening Canada’s cultural diplomacy through the arts.
The program contributes to making Canadian creative work more accessible across different languages and cultures.
How to Apply
Applicants should follow these steps:
- Review the official program guidelines and eligibility requirements.
- Confirm that the literary or dramatic work is authored by a Canadian creator.
- Identify an eligible translation or presentation project.
- Prepare a detailed project description.
- Develop a realistic translation and promotion budget.
- Gather all required supporting documents.
- Complete the application through the designated funding portal.
- Submit the application before the applicable deadline.
- Await assessment and funding notification.
Applications should clearly explain how the translation project will increase international access to Canadian artistic work.
Application Tips
To prepare a competitive application:
- Demonstrate the international audience for the translated work.
- Include qualified professional translators.
- Provide a realistic publication or presentation plan.
- Explain promotional activities in detail.
- Present a well-justified budget.
- Highlight the cultural significance of the work.
- Follow all program requirements carefully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Applicants should avoid:
- Applying as a Canadian publisher.
- Requesting funding for ineligible translations.
- Including film or video subtitling.
- Providing incomplete budgets.
- Failing to demonstrate international presentation or publication.
- Using non-professional translation plans.
- Omitting required supporting documentation.
Carefully reviewing eligibility requirements before submission can improve the likelihood of success.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the International Translation Grant?
It is a funding program that supports the translation and international presentation or publication of Canadian literary and dramatic works.
Who can apply?
Eligible applicants include artistic organizations, foreign publishers, foreign theatres, supporting organizations, and eligible Indigenous organizations or collectives.
How much funding is available?
Applicants may receive up to CAD 20,000 for translation costs and up to CAD 2,000 for eligible promotional activities, with a maximum of CAD 44,000 per calendar year under the program.
Can Canadian publishers apply?
No. Canadian publishers are not eligible for this grant.
Are translations into English or French eligible?
No. Literary translations into English or French are not eligible for funding.
Can the grant fund theatre surtitles?
Yes. Translation and surtitling for Canadian-authored dramatic works presented internationally are eligible.
What promotional activities are supported?
Eligible promotional expenses include activities that help market and promote translated Canadian literary works to international audiences.
Conclusion
The International Translation Grant helps bring Canadian literature and theatre to audiences around the world by supporting professional translation, surtitling, international publication, and promotional activities. By investing in multilingual access and international cultural exchange, the program strengthens the global presence of Canadian authors, playwrights, and artistic organizations while fostering lasting connections with readers, publishers, theatres, and cultural institutions worldwide.
For more information, visit Canada Council for the Arts.
