Selection Criteria
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quality of the text to be translated
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consistency of the file and strength of the argumentation in favour of its publication
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potential of the book for the British publishing market
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strength of the promotional actions surrounding the book publication
How to Apply
Fill in the form below and send the following documents:
- a copy of the French book(s)
- a catalogue and backlist (only one needed in case of multiple applications)
to:
Institut français du Royaume-Uni
Philippe Mouchel – Book office
Burgess Programme
23 Cromwell Road, London SW7 2EL
Upload the following documents:
- a formal letter of application and presentation of the policy on translation
- a copy of the contracts with the French publisher
- a copy of the contract with the translator
- a proposed publicity schedule detailing how the publishers intend to publicise the author in the UK, in the run-up to, and surrounding the book’s publication
Terms and Conditions
Applications are submitted once a year.
For the 2024 session, applications will be open from 22 October to 8 December 2023. The Burgess committee will meet in January and replies will be given in February 2024.
Please note that the Burgess Grant will only be paid to the publisher as long as the book displays the French Institute’s logo and the mention: “This book is supported by the Institut français (Royaume-Uni) as part of the Burgess programme”, so please consider the printing schedule before applying.
Once the book is published, we will ask you for the publisher’s bank details: a copy of the top part of a bank statement with the company name, account number and Sort Code and the IBAN and BIC Code or an official document issued by the bank, under 3 months old.
As part of the selection process, we will look at the way publishers intend to promote the book and its author once published – whether it be bringing the author over, setting up events with the translator or mentioning the Institut français’ support as part of any press coverage. We will also ask for a sales report after the book has been published.
One same publisher can submit up to 5 applications a year. In case of multiple applications, please indicate an order of priority.
The Burgess grant only covers translation costs but is compatible with most of other funding programs. Please, let us know which other programs you have applied to so that we can help you best.
Contact
French Book Office
Burgess Programme supervisor
philippe.mouchel@institut-francais.org.uk
020 7073 1303
Head of the Book Office: Jérôme Chevrier
jerome.chevrier@institut-francais.org.uk
0207 073 1307
Burgess Selection Form