The Lit‑Quest Europe (LAP‑CB) training program for emerging literary agents began its journey this spring in Slovenia, and continues to grow across borders. We are pleased to follow the path of Janek Domonell and Chiara Stanzani, who have been developing their skills alongside Manca Masnik from Goga Publishing House.

Their Lit‑Quest journey will began in March, with a first residency in Novo mesto, hosted by Goga. Under the guidance of Goga’s director, Mitja Ličen, the participants were introduced to the fundamentals of the agent’s role, the dynamics of small-market publishing, and the Slovenian literary landscape.

In May, the agents continued their training in Zagreb, where sessions were led by Ivan Sršen (Director, Sandorf Publishing). Workshops focused on rights selling, author representation, and regional publishing challenges—especially in the context of Southeast Europe.

In June, the group travelled to Helsinki, where the focus shifted toward international rights and pitch development. There, they worked closely with the full team at Helsinki Literary Agency (HLA), under the leadership of Viivi Arela. The Finnish residency included expert presentations, guided pitching sessions, and market insights from the Nordic perspective.

This step-by-step, transnational training process lies at the heart of Lit‑Quest Europe: a program designed not just to inform, but to transform emerging literary agents through a combination of local expertise, international immersion, and tailored mentorship.