Call for participation by Irish independent publishers & resource organisations
Through grant funding to Children’s Books Ireland, Culture Ireland has supported an Ireland presence at the Bologna Children’s Book Fair over many years.
As part of this, Culture Ireland offers a number of travel bursaries to the Irish independent publishing sector to assist with the costs of attendance at the event. This includes resource organisations who support Irish writers and illustrators whose work is aimed at younger readers.
The Bologna Children’s Book Fair is the world’s leading trade fair for the children’s publishing industry, featuring approximately 1500 exhibitors from 90 countries and regions.
During the event, publishers will meet literary agents, international colleagues, and translators to develop further opportunities for Irish writers to reach an international readership.
The Bologna Children’s Book Fair will run from 13 – 16 April 2026.
Applicants must meet the following eligibility criteria:
- An established track record as an independent publisher or resource organisation from across the island of Ireland whose work is focussed on younger readers
Applications will be assessed on the basis of the following criteria:
- evidence that they are in a position to capitalise on this opportunity including availability of promotional materials
- evidence of track record within the industry
- completeness and quality of their application
Selected delegates will participate in the Ireland Stand to promote their work as agreed with Children’s Books Ireland in line with previous editions of the fair.
The award (€800 per person for a maximum of two people per organisation) is towards the costs of return flights and a contribution towards accommodation and subsistence. Click here to apply.
The deadline for submission of completed applications for a delegate bursary is Monday 22 September at 5pm.
