Want to apply for a travel grant? Four ideas to inspire publishers and organisers

A travel grant enables international publishers and organisers to invite authors, illustrators or translators from Flanders, either in person or online. Literature thrives on interaction: direct contact with readers often provides that extra spark that gets new audiences excited about translated works. Below are four inspiring examples of how a travel grant can make this possible.

In early March 2026, 'Rompientes' premiered in Madrid, the Spanish translation of Paul Verrept’s Breakers. Teatro de La Abadía invited the author to attend the premiere and organised a press conference, as well as two public pre‑performance talks. This not only generated significant media attention but also increased interest in both the production and the published translation.

Jean‑Claude Van Rijckeghem spent two days in Cento and Imola, where he spoke with young people about Ironhead and Daughter of Doom. Through a series of talks, he reached more than 400 young readers. For many of them, it was the first time they had met an author. The personal encounter gave some an extra nudge towards their own dreams of writing, while others eagerly looked forward to Van Rijckeghem’s next book in Italian.

Goele Dewanckel, Peter Van den Ende and Ingrid Godon took part in a major European illustration event in Moulins, in central France. They exhibited original work, engaged in discussions with librarians, booksellers, publishers and students, and met both children and adults. Live drawing sessions, workshops and talks brought their illustrations closer to the public, both literally and figuratively.

With Puentes Poéticos, poetry publisher Ediciones Matanzas organised Cuba’s first international poetry festival. By inviting poets from abroad, the publisher sought to connect the strong local poetry tradition of Matanzas – often referred to as ‘the Athens of Cuba’ – with other literary contexts, while also raising the international profile of Cuban poetry.

Thanks to a travel grant, Tom Van de Voorde was able to travel to Cuba and take part in readings, discussions and meetings with students, professionals and a wide audience. During the festival, he reflected on the role of poetry, imagination and international exchange, highlighting how literary encounters can open up new perspectives across cultures.

Would you like to invite an author, illustrator or translator from Flanders to a presentation, festival or readers’ programme? Then check whether you are eligible for a travel grant from Flanders Literature. This grant can enhance a translation, broaden your audience and facilitate international exchange.