Israelyan English Translation Grant

The IALA Israelyan English Translation Grant 2025, administered by the International Armenian Literary Alliance, awards $3,000 to a single translator for a work-in-progress translation from English into Eastern Armenian. This annual grant recognizes literary and creative excellence in translation and supports projects focused on contemporary literature authored by Armenians writing in English. The eligible source texts are limited to a curated list of fiction, nonfiction, and poetry titles selected by IALA, emphasizing diversity in voice and subject matter. The goal of the grant is to encourage and expand high-quality translations into Eastern Armenian and promote these works within the Armenian literary community. In addition to monetary support, the grant includes promotional benefits such as online marketing, book reviews, readings, and discussions. The winning translator's final manuscript must be completed by December 2026. Applicants must submit a sample translation — 5,000 words for prose or 8–10 poems for poetry — alongside a personal statement explaining their connection to the chosen work. Applications also require a brief bio and information about the translator’s publishing vision for the completed manuscript. If the source work is not in the public domain, applicants must confirm that translation rights are available and not already sold. Excerpts may be previously published, but no more than 10% of the work may appear in print prior to applying. Eligibility is limited to translators aged 21 or older who are active IALA members at the time of application. The grant is not open to IALA board or advisory board members. Prior publication is not required, and those who are not selected may reapply in future years. Winners are barred from reapplying for two years. The grant encourages applications from individuals with marginalized or underrepresented identities, particularly those with a deep personal connection to the source text. The full application portal opens on September 1, 2025. The deadline for submission is October 14, 2025, at 11:59 PM Eastern Time. All materials must be submitted in accordance with the instructions provided in the online form. The final decision will be made through a blind review process based on literary quality, translator’s voice, and fidelity to the source work’s style and intent.

Choose a text from IALA’s approved list; convey a clear, personal connection in the statement; show respect for author’s style; prioritize literary fidelity in translation.