To showcase the rich and diverse literary heritage of Taiwan, the Ministry of Culture has introduced the Grant for the Publication of Taiwanese Works in Translation (GPT). This initiative is designed to support foreign publishers in translating and introducing Taiwanese literature across the globe. By bridging the language gap, the GPT aims to increase international awareness of Taiwan’s cultural narratives and advance its publishing industry into new, non-Chinese-speaking markets. If you are a publisher looking to diversify your catalogue and to explore Taiwanese stories, the GPT offers an unparalleled opportunity to bring these unique voices to the world stage.

Every Friday this September, we will introduce some titles that are not yet translated into English to global readers. We hope this grant opportunity will encourage foreign publishers to take a look at these titles. Let’s explore some of the most notable literary awards in Taiwan that recognize and promote the talents of writers, illustrators, and publishers. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know about this fantastic opportunity.

Purpose of GPT

The GPT is a significant step by the Ministry of Culture to enhance the international visibility of Taiwanese literature and cultural content. By supporting the translation and publication of Taiwanese works, this grant aims to help Taiwan’s publishing industry tap into non-Chinese-speaking international markets.

Application Periods

Applications for the GPT are accepted twice a year:

• Spring: April 1 – April 30
• Autumn: October 1 – October 31

Applicants must complete their submissions via the Ministry’s online application system (English/ Chinese) during these periods. Late applications are not accepted.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the GPT, certain conditions must be met:

• Who Can Apply: Only foreign publishing houses legally registered in their respective countries are eligible.
• Qualifying Works: The works must be written in traditional Chinese characters, authored by a Taiwanese national, and possess an ISBN starting with 978-957, 978-986, or 978-626.
• Required Documents: Applications must include consent from the copyright holder for translation and foreign publication, along with a sample translation of the work.
• Publication Timeline: The translated work must be published within two years from the application period’s start date.

Grant Details

The GPT offers a substantial support package with a maximum grant of NT$600,000 (approximately US$18,540) per project. This funding can cover:

• Licensing fees for the Taiwanese work
• Translation fees
• Marketing and promotion expenses
• Production costs
• Tax (20% of the total grant)
• Remittance handling fees

Priority is given to books that have received prestigious awards like the Golden Tripod Award or those focusing on Taiwanese culture and history.

Review Process

The review process involves two stages:

• Initial Review: The Ministry checks for eligibility and completeness of applications.
• Final Review: A jury of experts evaluates the applications based on budget suitability, the publisher’s reputation, and their plans for marketing and promotion. 

Important Notes for Grant Recipients

• Grant recipients must comply with Taiwan’s tax laws, with 20% of the grant withheld for tax purposes.
• Projects receiving other governmental grants are not eligible.
• Any alterations to the project must be approved by the Ministry.
• The work must prominently acknowledge the Ministry’s sponsorship.

Grant recipients are required to submit a detailed report, including expenditure, sales volume, and marketing results, along with 10 copies of the published work or equivalent ebook authorisations.

Conclusion

The GPT is a golden opportunity for foreign publishers to introduce Taiwanese literature to new audiences worldwide. By providing financial support and prioritising quality works, the Ministry of Culture aims to foster a deeper global appreciation of Taiwan’s rich literary heritage. If you’re a foreign publisher looking to expand your catalogue with unique and culturally significant works, be sure to apply for the GPT during the next application window!

For more details, visit the Ministry of Culture or the GPT Guidelines. Don’t forget to check Books From Taiwan for shortlists and abstracts of award-winning books.

By participating in the GPT, publishers not only contribute to the global literary scene but also help in preserving and promoting the vibrant culture of Taiwan. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to bring Taiwanese stories to readers around the world!

BIBLIOGRAPHY:

Ministry of Culture. Grant for the Publication of Taiwanese Works in Translation (GPT)  Application Guidelines. https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Bv_K5K28yb-TMizABe26O_2_A1E8-KKQ/view.

Ministry of Culture Award and Grant Programs Website-Home. https://grants.moc.gov.tw/Web_ENG/. Accessed 10 June 2024.

Team, Internet. ‘Grant for the Publication of Taiwanese Works in Translation (GPT) Is Now Open for Application’. Taipei Representative Office in the Netherlands 駐荷蘭台北代表處, https://www.taiwanembassy.org/nl_nl/post/11833.html#:~:text=Share-,Grant%20for%20the%20Publication%20of%20Taiwanese%20Works%20in%20Translation%20(GPT,industry%20expand%20into%20non%2DChinese. Accessed 10 June 2024.

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Eleanor Duggan is a passionate children’s book reader, a storytelling enchantress, an aspiring globetrotter, a part-time book crafter, and an impassioned foodie who is a cooking disaster. She is more known as an international school teacher-librarian and the International Association of School Librarianship (IASL) Regional Director for East Asia. She is a Taiwanese with a Belgian soul and is currently enjoying her life as a citizen of the world with her daughter and their 2 one-of-a kind cats. You may find her via The Third Culture Librarian 

GLLI Disclaimer: Opinions expressed in posts on this site are the individual author’s and are not indicative of the views of Global Literature in Libraries Initiative.