The Sharjah International Book Fair's, SIBF, Matchmaking Programme is now open for applications from International publishing rights professionals who have a catalogue of translation rights to buy or sell.

Hosted as part of SIBF's Translation Rights Centre, the fifth annual SIBF Matchmaking Programme will bring together over 250 rights professionals from across the world this year from November 1st-3rd for an event which centres around the buying and selling of publishing translation rights.

A key event in the international publishing trade, the event attracts top rights professionals in the book industry from over 50 countries. The programme includes introductions to Arab and international publishing professionals, one-to-one matchmaking sessions, networking and hospitality. Attendees will also get the chance to benefit from the SIBF Translation Grant, a US$300,000 fund for rights agreements made during the programme. The SIBF Translation Grant awarded 168 grants in 2014, a 50% increase on the previous year.

Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, Chairman of Sharjah Book Authority, said, "We are delighted to announce the launch of the SIBF's Matchmaking Programme for 2015. This year delegates will also be invited to attend the influential Arab Publishers Conference taking place in Sharjah on November 2nd-3rd. Past editions have been a great success and it is a testament to the vision of H.H. Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, who believes in the development of reading and culture as a means to unite different countries and cultures of the world to facilitate peace and harmony everywhere."

Any international publishing rights professional who has a catalogue of translation rights to buy or sell, with an interest in doing business in the Arab market, can apply to take part in the Matchmaking Programme. A full hospitality package is available to successful applicants, all applications must be submitted online by Friday 17th July 2015, and successful applicants will be notified via email by mid-August.

As the umbrella organisation for the Sharjah International Book Fair, the Sharjah Book Authority's purpose is to encourage investment in creative industries and provide a platform for knowledge and intellectual exchange among people from different countries and cultures. Through these and other initiatives, Sharjah Book Authority aims to develop the regional printing and publishing sector and support the significant role of writers who bring to light technological advancements and the availability of various sources of information.
Source: WAM