By Helen Gregg

At Frankfurt this year, take advantage of the chance to meet first-time exhibitors from developing countries.

Every year, the Frankfurt Book Fair and the German Federal Foreign Office sponsor about two dozen publishers that have never been to Frankfurt so they do business with the international publishing community at the Fair. Called the Invitation Program for Exhibitors, participating publishers not only receive a free booth, but their travel and hotel expenses are also covered. Before the fair begins, the publishers attend a two-and-a-half day conference with experienced speakers offering advice on expanding their companies.

A 2009 Participant: Kaveri Lalchand, Director Blaft Publications, Chennai, India

All located in Hall 5.0, this year’s program includes 24 exhibitors.

Applications for the 2011 program are due on March 31, 2011. All applicants must be an independent company with an international focus, and must have a good command of English.

Helen Gregg works in the New York office of the Frankfurt Book Fair. This year’s Fair will be her first.

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