Deadline: 31-May-2026
The Latvian Literature Translation Support Programme, administered by Latvian Literature, provides financial support to professional translators working on translating Latvian literary works into other languages. The programme aims to promote the international circulation of Latvian literature and support high-quality translations with strong publishing potential in foreign markets.
Programme Overview
This grant supports the translation of Latvian literature across multiple genres, including:
- Prose and novels
- Poetry
- Children’s and young adult literature
- Journalism and essays
- Drama and theatre texts
- Comics and graphic novels
- Non-fiction, including memoirs
The core objective is to expand the global reach of Latvian literature through professional translation and international publishing partnerships.
Funding Model and Rates
Funding is calculated based on literary format:
- Prose: €19 per 1,800 characters (including spaces)
- Poetry: €2 per line
Key funding rules:
- Only incomplete, new translations are eligible
- Already completed translations are not funded
- AI-generated or machine-translated content is not eligible
- Direct translation from Latvian is required (exceptions only if no qualified translator exists)
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Be professional translators with proven experience
- Have prior experience translating from Latvian (in relevant literary form)
- Translate into their native language (preferred requirement)
- Maintain fidelity to the original text in meaning, tone, and style
- Work on projects linked to a confirmed foreign publisher
- Focus on works with international publishing potential
Preference is given to:
- Award-winning or critically recognized Latvian works
- Literature with strong international market potential
Quality and Evaluation Standards
- Expert committee may review translation quality
- External expert assessment may be requested
- Accuracy, literary style, and cultural fidelity are key evaluation factors
- AI or automated translation tools are strictly prohibited
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit:
- Completed application form
- Sample translation with original Latvian text
- Translator CV with relevant experience
- Signed copyright agreement or authorization
- Letter of intent or publishing agreement from foreign publisher
All signed documents must be:
- Scanned copies, or
- Digitally signed using valid electronic signatures
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Select Latvian literary work for translation
- Secure agreement with foreign publisher
- Obtain copyright permissions
- Prepare translation sample and CV
- Complete application form with required documents
- Submit application to Latvian Literature programme
- Await evaluation by expert committee
- If approved, complete translation and proceed to publication
Key Restrictions
- No funding for completed translations
- No machine-assisted or AI-generated translations
- Must be directly translated from Latvian (with limited exceptions)
- Must be linked to a foreign publisher before application
- Must meet professional translation standards
Purpose and Impact
The programme aims to:
- Increase international visibility of Latvian literature
- Support professional literary translators
- Strengthen global publishing collaborations
- Ensure high-quality cultural and linguistic translation standards
- Expand Latvian authors’ access to international readership
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Who can apply for this grant?
Professional translators with experience translating Latvian literature into other languages.
2. What types of works are supported?
Prose, poetry, drama, children’s literature, comics, non-fiction, essays, memoirs, and journalism.
3. How is funding calculated?
By literary type—per 1,800 characters for prose and per line for poetry.
4. Are AI translations allowed?
No, translations using AI or machine tools are not eligible.
5. Do I need a publisher to apply?
Yes, a confirmed foreign publisher is required.
6. Can completed translations be funded?
No, only ongoing or new translation projects are eligible.
7. What language should I translate into?
Translators are expected to translate into their native language.
Conclusion
The Latvian Literature Translation Support Programme provides structured financial support for professional translators to produce high-quality translations of Latvian literature, strengthening its global reach while ensuring cultural and linguistic authenticity in international publishing markets.
For more information, visit Latvian Literature.
