Slovenian literature is full of bold voices, poetic depth, and fresh storytelling. But like any great story, it needs a translator to travel. That’s where grants and funding for foreign publishers come in—helping bring Slovenian works to international bookshelves.
Thanks to the Slovenian Book Agency (JAK) and its dedicated support schemes, publishers around the world can apply for funding to translate, publish, and promote Slovenian authors in their own countries. If you’re a foreign publisher interested in Slovenian books, here’s everything you need to know about getting financial support.
Table of Contents
Purpose
The core aim of these grants is to promote Slovenian literature globally by breaking the language barrier. Translation funding helps international publishers take a chance on unknown voices, knowing that some of the financial risk is covered.
This initiative boosts:
- International visibility for Slovenian authors
- Cultural exchange through literature
- Access to diverse voices in world publishing
And it’s working. More Slovenian books are being read abroad now than ever before.
Who Can Apply
Grants are available to foreign publishers—big or small—who want to publish works originally written in Slovenian.
To be eligible, you must:
- Be a legally registered publisher outside Slovenia
- Hold translation rights for the book in question
- Work with a qualified translator
- Commit to promoting the translated work
Self-published authors, agents, and translators can’t apply directly, but they can partner with eligible publishers.
What’s Covered
There are three main types of support available through the Slovenian Book Agency (JAK):
| Type of Grant | What It Covers |
|---|---|
| Translation Grant | Covers full or partial cost of translating Slovenian works into foreign languages |
| Printing and Publishing Grant | Helps cover production costs (design, layout, printing, distribution) |
| Promotion Grant | Funds marketing, PR, book launches, author tours, and events abroad |
Some publishers apply for just one, others bundle all three. It depends on the scope of the project.
How to Apply
Applying is fairly straightforward but requires planning. Here’s a basic outline of the process:
- Choose the book – Make sure you have legal rights and a signed contract with the author or agent.
- Find a translator – Must be professional, with proven experience in literary translation.
- Prepare your proposal – Include your publishing plan, timeline, marketing strategy, and budgets.
- Submit via JAK’s portal – Applications are usually open once or twice a year on jakrs.si.
- Wait for review – Decisions are typically announced a few months after the deadline.
Pro tip: The stronger your marketing and distribution plan, the better your chances.
Eligible Works
Not every book qualifies—but JAK supports a wide variety of genres, including:
- Fiction (novels, short stories)
- Poetry and essays
- Non-fiction (history, philosophy, science, etc.)
- Children’s and YA literature
- Drama and plays
The work must be originally written in Slovenian. Priority is often given to contemporary titles or authors with critical acclaim or cultural significance.
Translation Standards
Quality is key. That’s why your chosen translator must be approved by JAK or have relevant credentials. Some languages even have lists of recommended translators familiar with Slovenian literature.
If the translator hasn’t worked with Slovenian before, they may be asked to submit a sample translation or co-translate with a more experienced editor.
Additional Help
JAK goes beyond funding. They also support foreign publishers through:
- Sample translation grants – Short excerpts used to pitch titles to publishers or agents
- Travel support – Bringing Slovenian authors to international events and fairs
- Matchmaking – Connecting publishers with Slovenian rights holders
- Catalogs and rights guides – Updated lists of recommended books ready for translation
They even run seminars to introduce foreign publishers to the Slovenian literary scene.
Deadlines
Calls for applications typically happen once or twice a year, usually in:
- Spring (April–May)
- Autumn (September–October)
Exact deadlines and application guides are published on the official website: https://www.jakrs.si
Plan ahead, as the process from submission to approval takes several months.
Real Impact
This funding isn’t just theoretical—it’s changing lives and careers. Thanks to JAK’s grants:
- Drago Jančar has been published in over 20 languages
- Anja Mugerli’s works reached readers in Spain, Italy, and beyond
- Goran Vojnović’s novels gained European-wide recognition
For publishers, it’s a unique chance to offer readers something new, bold, and beautifully Slovenian.
If you’re a foreign publisher looking for the next big voice in world literature, Slovenian books are calling—and JAK is ready to help make that connection happen.
FAQs
Who can apply for JAK translation grants?
Foreign publishers with rights to a Slovenian book can apply.
What costs can the grant cover?
Translation, printing, and promotion of Slovenian works.
How often are calls for funding?
Usually once or twice per year via JAK’s website.
Can debut authors be funded?
Yes, if the work meets JAK’s quality and cultural standards.
Where do I apply for support?
Visit JAK’s official site: www.jakrs.si to apply online.
