Literature: Translation Funding

The Literature Program: Translation Funding in Vienna supports literary translation projects through various funding instruments such as translation premiums, work and travel grants, as well as translation cost subsidies. Individuals, companies, and non-profit organizations based in Austria can submit applications on an ongoing basis, with translation premiums needing to be applied for by July 31 of the respective year. The aim is to enable the realization of literary translations into German, especially when projects would not be feasible or only partially feasible without financial support. Eligible for funding are literary translators, authors, and publishers who wish to contribute with their work to the enrichment of the German-speaking cultural sphere.

A prerequisite for a grant, in addition to Austrian citizenship or permanent residence in Austria, is the submission of an application in accordance with § 4 of the Arts Funding Act. Furthermore, economic necessity and personal contribution must be demonstrated, although an exception is possible in cases of unreasonable personal contribution. Translation costs, travel expenses, and scholarship expenditures are funded. Selection is made upon submission of the application, project description, and proof of already applied for or committed funds. The evaluation particularly considers the artistic quality and the financial security of the project. For the application, the general application form, the form for scholarships, acquisitions, and studios, as well as a detailed project description and proof of existing funding must be attached. This funding instrument lays the foundation for a sustainable anchoring of contemporary literary translations in the Austrian cultural landscape.