(Competitive Category)
Registration deadline: March 3
Application deadline: July 1

Support for translators' fees is available for the completion of literary translations into English. Accuracy and literary quality of the translation is a paramount criterion in this category. Grants in this category range from $2,500 to $10,000. Preference is given to work that has a commitment for publication from a New York State literary publisher or of public performance by a New York State theatre or literary presenter. Priority is given to translators who are New York State residents. Completed projects are ineligible for funding.

Individuals cannot directly apply for Council funding; each literary translation request is sponsored by a nonprofit organization. Fiscal sponsors of literary translation applications may take a fee of no more than 5% of the grant provided they are presenting a public program featuring the funded translator. The Program recommends that potential applicants see a model translator's contract and a copy of " A Handbook for Literary Translators " compiled by PEN Translation Committee, 588 Broadway (Suite 303), New York, NY 10012, (212) 334-1660 at www.PEN.org.

Applications in this category are exempt from the Council's four-request limit. Organizations intending to apply in this category are strongly advised to consult with Program staff well before the March registration deadline.

Application Instructions

The on-line application form includes the following questions, and a project budget. Required support materials are listed below.

Application Narrative Questions

1. Work to be Translated
Give the title, author and genre of the work to be translated into English, noting the original language (specifying dialect) from which the translation is being made. Indicate whether rights to the work have been secured, or when they will be secured.

2. Project Overview
Describe the project in detail, noting the need for translation, the relevant publication history, and literary context of the work in its original and any other English translations. What is the current stage of production, and when will it be completed?   Also note if the project has special relevance to the mission of the sponsoring organization.

3. Translator and Fee
Identify the translator/s and briefly summarize their professional credentials and interest in the project. Note whether the translator has received previous support from NYSCA. Also specify the translator's fee and how has it been calculated.

4. Publication/Public Programs
Describe any plans for publication and/or proposed public readings presenting the translator/ translation to the public in New York State.

5. Marketing
Detail the plans for promoting the completed translation publication and/or public program to the public.

6. Finances
Describe plans, projects and activities for meeting project expenses.

Support Materials

Support material must be postmarked, e-mailed, or hand-delivered to the program by the application deadline. If you want support materials returned, provide a self-addressed stamped envelope.

1. 10-page excerpts, in English and in the original language, from the proposed translation-in-progress (20 pages total). Please match the English translation and corresponding original on facing pages.

2. Copy of the letter granting rights to the translator

3. Resumé of the proposed translator (3 copies)