Sharjah: The Sharjah Literary Agency (SLA) and the Sharjah Publishing Sustainability Fund, known as Onshur, have unveiled a strategic partnership aimed at empowering emerging publishers and enhancing their global reach.
According to Emirates News Agency, this collaboration will see SLA working closely with Onshur graduates, serving as their literary agents to facilitate the acquisition of translation rights for publishing. This initiative underscores SLA's dedication to strengthening the publishing industry and offering professionals opportunities to succeed.
The fund, inspired by the visionary leadership of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, reflects an AED10 million investment. It underscores His Highness's commitment to fostering a knowledge-driven economy and recognizing the transformative power of books in shaping cultures and preserving heritage.
Tamer Said, Director of SLA, highlighted the partnership's benefits, stating, "By serving as literary agents for Onshur graduates through our partnership, we will help these publishers secure translation rights and also provide comprehensive support throughout the entire process, from acquiring publishing rights to the successful publication of their book." The joint efforts have already enabled two Onshur graduates to secure translation rights for five books, and have assisted 10 graduates in translating ten new works.
Iman Ben Chaibah, Director of Strategic Initiatives and Global Markets at SBA, emphasized the need for specialized expertise and global connections in securing translation rights. She stated, "While we equip our publishers with comprehensive training to thrive in the market, translation rights often require specialised expertise and global connections within the publishing industry. This collaboration with SLA will offer our Onshur graduates the additional support they need, particularly those aspiring to enter the translation rights sector of the book industry."
Onshur, led by Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of Sharjah Book Authority, represents a strategic response to the evolving needs of the publishing industry. Launched in 2024, the fund operates through three core tracks-Launch, Scale, and Disrupt-each tailored to support publishers at various stages of their journey.