This year, Seattle City of Literature will allocate $10,000 in grants to Seattle area writers and literary and arts organizations working on international projects. Two organizations will each receive $2,500, and five individual artists will be granted $1,000 each. 

These awards will be for King County residents only. Students, current board and staff of Seattle City of Literature, and independent judges are ineligible. Funding cannot be used for operational costs, but can be used for equipment. Preference will be given to marginalized communities of any and all backgrounds, with preference given to BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, and AAPI artists. 

We are seeking Seattle area literary projects and programs with active engagement with another country. Collaborations with other UNESCO Cities of Literature will be given preference. 

In regard to the budget, we understand $32/hr to be a living wage. Please reflect that in your calculation below.

We’d like to hear about your epistolary essays, your short stories in translation, your poems turned to plays, your literary festivals, your bilingual and multicultural writing workshops, and more. 

Applications open October 5, 2026 and close November 6, 2026. Details about our evaluation criteria can be found in the applications. If you’re ready to apply or if you want to learn more, take a look at the application that’s right for you.

Learn More About the Microgrants Program

Are you interested but want a little more information? Watch our virtual FAQ session from 2026.

Still have questions about your application? Bring your questions to our drop in office hours on Wednesday, November 4 from 6 PM - 7:30 PM.

Learn more about the 2026 Microgrants recipients

Support for this project comes from the City of Seattle Office of Arts and Culture, ArtsFund and 4Culture.