For writers of all genre who want to write, and the readers who love them. Find what you want to know.
2021 AUG-SEP Contests & Workshops
Below are the Contests for AUGUST – SEPTEMBER 2021. Hopefully the new format helps your find what you are looking for faster. Most of the listing, however, are Multiple Genre. If you find a contest you would like added to the list, please EMAIL ME.
- SOME SITES MAY REQUIRE YOU TO JOIN.
- ★ Indicates Resource New Listing
- ⭐ Added after mailout.
Mixed Genre
CHANTICLEER CONTESTS
https://www.chantireviews.com/contests/ All Contests for All Genre –
JERRY JENKINS ULTIMATE GUIDE TO WRITING CONTESTS THROUGH 2021
Regardless where you are on your writing journey—from wannabe to bestseller—you can benefit from entering contests.
https://jerryjenkins.com/writing-contests/#p2
FREE CONTESTS https://jerryjenkins.com/writing-contests/#p5
REEDSY BEST WRITING CONTESTS OF 2021
Several contests for 2021 listed keep scrolling.
NEW Enter our short story competition – Submit a short story based on one of 5 weekly prompts. Winners get $50 and will feature on our app! Sign up to get this week’s prompts.
https://https://blog.reedsy.com/writing-contests/
ALMOND PRESS
Welcome to the most comprehensive list of creative writing competitions, short story competitions, and various events for writers.
Each item on our list includes basic information about max word count, associated fees, submission deadlines, and the maximum prize that can be won. Clicking on an item opens a new page featuring a more detailed description and a link to the organizer’s submission page. Events that are free to enter are highlighted.
https://dystopianstories.com/writing-competitions-contests/
THE WRITER MAGAZINE
The Writer encourages all of our readers to practice their craft and put their stories in front of the eyes of as many people as possible. Writing contests have always been a vital part of the writing world, giving writers the chance to have their work reviewed by editors and possibly published. Literary journals, universities and even The Writer regularly host writing competitions, helping authors gain exposure and hone their craft. Choose your inspiration, submit before the deadline, and, as always, keep writing. Submit your very best essay in 2,000 words or less. Any theme, subject, or genre is fair game, as long as it is nonfiction and falls under 2,000 words.
Many other contests listed be sure to scroll to the bottom and check out the pages
https://www.writermag.com/contests/
NEWFOUND PROSE PRIZE
You know that long story of yours that wickedly exceeds the word counts for journals? Or that micro-essay collection you’ve been crafting that’s still too short to publish as a book? These works deserve to exist in print. Now they have a home.
https://newfound.org/prose-prize?gclid=EAIaIQobChMI24rKj96K7wIVhYKGCh3Q1wGCEAAYASAAEgLitvD_BwE
PUBLISHING… AND OTHER FORMS OF INSANITY
This January there are more than three dozen writing contests calling for every genre and form, from poetry, to creative nonfiction, to completed novels. Prizes range from $100,000 to publication. None charge entry fees.
Publishers Accepting Unsolicited Manuscripts: https://publishehttps://publishedtodeath.blogspot.com/p/publishers-looking-for-authors.htmldtodeath.blogspot.com/2021/02/58-calls-for-submissions-in-march-2021.html
Agents Seeking Clients: https://publishedtodeath.blogspot.com/p/agents.html
Writing Contests: https://publishedtodeath.blogspot.com/p/free-contests.html
https://publishedtodeath.blogspot.com/p/calls-for-submissions.html
THE WRITERS COLLEGE
If you are looking to take your writing to the next level, then entering a writing competition often provides that extra impetus to refine your work. This is by no means a full list of competitions. Some writing competitions require an entry fee. Others don’t. This seems to be the norm these days and there are credible competitions that require an entry fee. Always check that you are comfortable with sending money to the organizers if this is the case. Click on More details here (link almost the same color as text)
https://www.thewriterscollege.com/short-story-writing-competitions
NYC MIDNIGHT
Since 2002, NYC Midnight has hosted hundreds of inspiring competitions for storytellers around the world. Participants are challenged to create original stories, screenplays, or films using assigned elements under time constraints. If you enjoy a creative challenge, check out our upcoming competitions.
• Short Story Challenge
• Screenwriting Challenge
• Flash Fiction Challenge
• Microfiction Challenge/
• Short Screenplay Challenge
SAN FRANCISCO WRITERS CONFERENCE
The San Francisco Writers Conference is pleased to announce the 2021 San Francisco Writing Contest. The contest is open to all writers everywhere. The entry fee is $30 per entry and includes a copy of the 2021 SFWC Writing Contest Anthology. Your entry must fit into one of the following categories: Sept 2021
* Adult Fiction
* Adult Nonfiction (including memoir)
* Children’s/YA Books
* Poetry
https://www.sfwriters.org/2021-writing-contest-overview/
FAN STORY
A list of several contests for various genre.
https://www.fanstory.com/contestsall.jsp
WRITER’S DIGEST
(must join to see all posts)
All Contests: https://www.writersdigest.com/wd-competitions
Annual Writing Competition
ENTER NOW! DEADLINE: 5/7/21 Writer’s Digest’s oldest and most popular competition, the Annual Writing Competition, is open for entries. Winners of the 90th Annual competition will be announced in the Nov/Dec 2021 issue of Writer’s Digest.
So you want to compete in writing contests for prizes and recognition? Writing contests are a fun way to evolve your writing skills — and, yes, cash prizes are a nice bonus. But remember, the emphasis is on fun. If cash is your primary goal, you should focus your time and energy on landing freelance writing jobs.
FREE CONTESTS https://smartblogger.com/writing-contests/#free-writing-contests
CONTESTS WITH FEES https://smartblogger.com/writing-contests/#writing-contests-with-fees
CANADIAN AUTHORS
KOTOBEE BLOG
300+ Writing Contests You Need to Enter in 2021 – If there’s one thing we need these days, it’s consistency. Something that proves not everything has changed. Something that gives you a bout of comfort given the current circumstances. So what better way to do that than to know 2021 comes with a host of writing contests for people of all ages from all around the world?
Sort by Genre and Month
blog.kotobee.com/300-writing-contests-2021/
STONE SOUP
https://stonesoup.com/how-to-submit-writing-and-art-to-stone-soup/
NOTHING IN THE RULEBOOK
41 Writing Competitions for 2021 – Dozens of writing competitions for you to get stuck into during 2021. When we put out our annual compendium of creative writing contests, we were worried it might be the last chance for some of us writers to see our writing win some excellent prizes – what with the threat of total climate collapse and World War III seemingly around the corner. COVID-19 wasn’t even on our radar.
https://nothingintherulebook.com/2021/02/02/41-writing-competitions-for-2021/
WRITERS-EDITORS.COM
A variety of contests and genres for 2021.
https://www.writers-editors.com/Writers/Contests/contests.htm
THE WRITE LIFE
We found 40 reputable, well-reviewed, free writing contests for poets, fiction writers, essayists and more. With thousands of dollars in cash
https//thewritelife.com/writing-contests/
Calls for Submissions
PUBLISHING… AND OTHER FORMS OF INSANITY
This January there are more than three dozen writing contests calling for every genre and form, from poetry, to creative nonfiction, to completed novels. Prizes range from $100,000 to publication. None charge entry fees.
Calls for Submissions
https://publishedtodeath.blogspot.com/p/publishers-looking-for-authors.html
Writing Contests
https://publishedtodeath.blogspot.com/p/free-contests.html
6 New Literary Agents Seeking Speculative and Genre Fiction, Literary Fiction, Memoirs, Nonfiction, Graphic Novels
Here are six new literary agents seeking clients. Logan Harper is seeking a variety of character-driven fiction and is particularly drawn to women’s fiction, book club fiction, psychological thrillers, domestic suspense, mystery/crime, upmarket and literary fiction. Bre Stephens wants Gothic, Horror, Speculative, Fantasy, Psychological Realism, Detective/Mystery, MG, YA, and in nonfiction, Art, History, Personal Journey, Healing, Memoirs, Biographies, Self-Help.
https://publishedtodeath.blogspot.com/
STONE SOUP
https://stonesoup.com/how-to-submit-writing-and-art-to-stone-soup/
LA SCREEN PLAY AWARDS.COM
SUBMISSIONS: This is the only screenplay competition founded by a team of working Hollywood professionals with more than 1,000 produced credits and a century of collective industry experience. Our roster of Senior Judges includes multiple Oscar, Emmy, Grammy, and WGA Award Winners.
Feature Screenplay https://lascreenplayawards.com/feature-screenplay/
TV Script https://lascreenplayawards.com/tv-script/
Short Screenplay https://lascreenplayawards.com/short-screenplay/
https://lascreenplayawards.com/
PUBLISHED TO DEATH
“This June there are more than four dozen calls for submissions. All of these are paying markets, and none charge submission fees. As always, every genre, style, and form is wanted, from short stories to poetry to essays.
Happy submitting.” https://publishedtodeath.blogspot.com/
Children
BLUE FIRE
Welcome aspiring young authors, and thank you for your interest in the $1000 for 1000 Words Creative Writing Contest! We’re looking for an outstanding piece of short fiction that consists of exactly 1000 words. While there are no specific guidelines beyond that, we encourage you to tell a story that matters. Write something you believe in. Tell a story that only you can tell. Our judges have no specific criteria in mind other than to look for excellence. In other words, write something that moves you, that dazzles you, that says precisely what you want to say in precisely the way you want to say it. As long as you do so in precisely 1000 words. Eligibility: contest is open to all students enrolled in grades 6-12.
https://www.bluefire.org/about-contest
★ STONE SOUP
https://stonesoup.com/how-to-submit-writing-and-art-to-stone-soup/
SAN FRANCISCO WRITERS CONFERENCE
The San Francisco Writers Conference is pleased to announce the 2021 San Francisco Writing Contest. The contest is open to all writers everywhere. The entry fee is $30 per entry and includes a copy of the 2021 SFWC Writing Contest Anthology. Your entry must fit into one of the following categories: Sept 2021
* Adult Fiction
* Adult Nonfiction (including memoir)
* Children’s/YA Books
* Poetry
Flash Fiction
WOW! Women On Writing Quarterly Flash Fiction Contest
Seeking short fiction of any genre between 250 – 750 words. The mission of this contest is to inspire creativity, communication, and well-rewarded recognition to contestants.
REEDSY BEST WRITING CONTESTS OF 2021
Several contests for 2021 listed.
https://https://blog.reedsy.com/writing-contests/
NYC MIDNIGHT
Since 2002, NYC Midnight has hosted hundreds of inspiring competitions for storytellers around the world. Participants are challenged to create original stories, screenplays, or films using assigned elements under time constraints. If you enjoy a creative challenge, check out our upcoming competitions.
• Short Story Challenge
• Screenwriting Challenge
• Flash Fiction Challenge
• Microfiction Challenge/
• Short Screenplay Challenge
Fantasy
QUARKNDAGGER.COM
We’ve put together a list of writing contests or places to publish short works. These channels are ideal for young adults (teens), especially those interested in writing sci-fi and fantasy. Scroll through, put it in your calendar and get writing. If you have any you’d like to add to the list, comment below.
https://quarkndagger.com/19-writing-contests-and-publication-outlets-for-young-adults/
Fiction
REEDSY BEST WRITING CONTESTS OF 2021
Several contests for 2021 listed.
https://https://blog.reedsy.com/writing-contests/
KOTOBEE BLOG
300+ Writing Contests You Need to Enter in 2021 – If there’s one thing we need these days, it’s consistency. Something that proves not everything has changed. Something that gives you a bout of comfort given the current circumstances. So what better way to do that than to know 2021 comes with a host of writing contests for people of all ages from all around the world?
Sort by Genre and Month
blog.kotobee.com/300-writing-contests-2021/
Mystery - Suspense
ARIZONA MYSTERY WRITERS
Arizona Mystery Writers Jim Martin Memorial Story Contest Deadline: July 1
ADULT http://www.arizonamysterywriters.com/?page_id=3486
YOUTH: http://www.arizonamysterywriters.com/?page_id=1449
REEDSY BEST WRITING CONTESTS OF 2021
Several contests for 2021 listed.
https://https://blog.reedsy.com/writing-contests/
MYSTERY WRITERS OF AMERICA
No winner for 2021. Contests for Writers – Rules for the 2021 St. Martin’s Minotaur/ Mystery Writers of America First Crime Novel Competition – Sponsored by Minotaur Books and Mystery Writers of America (MWA DEADLINE: To be considered for the 2022 competition, all submissions must be received by 11:59pm EST Dec 17, 2021
Non Fiction
CHICKEN SOUP FOR THE SOUL
HUMOROUS STORIES – Laughter is the best medicine. And we love to publish your funny stories—in all our books. Our first ever book filled with nothing but funny stories was a bestseller, so we’re doing it again, for publication in 2022. We’re looking for those funny stories you tell again and again. The ones that make everyone laugh. August 30
CATS – The deadline date for submissions is AUGUST 31, 2021. Our cat books are so popular that we do a new one every other year. Our feline friends make us smile every day with their crazy antics, their loving companionship, and their amazing intuition. Here is another chance for you to share your story about the member of your family who just happens to walk on four feet… your cat.
CRAZY FAMILY – The deadline for submissions is AUGUST 31, 2021. We all have that certain someone in our own family who, while lovable, sweet, and caring, is also nutty or weird. We love that person but, at the same time, that family member makes us crazy! A parent or grandparent, an in-law, a brother or sister, an aunt, uncle or cousin. We all have them and you know who they are! We are looking for true stories and poems about those family members. We would like your stories to be silly, outrageous, hilarious, and make us laugh, but they should also show the kindness and caring of your family member too.
DOGS – The deadline date for submissions is AUGUST 31, 2021. Our dog books are so popular that we do a new one every other year. Our canine friends make us smile every day with their crazy antics, their loving companionship, and their amazing intuition. Here is another chance for you to share your story about the member of your family who just happens to walk on four feet… your dog.
GREIVING, LOSS and RECOVERY – The deadline for submissions is AUGUST 31, 2021. Grieving is a personal process with different stages we go through on the way to recovery after we have suffered a loss. Each person grieves in his or her own way and in his or her own time. There is no right or wrong way to grieve and no set time or path to recovery. It is a very personal journey.
HUMOROUS STORIES – The deadline for submissions is AUGUST 31, 2021. Laughter is the best medicine. And we love to publish your funny stories—in all our books. Our first ever book filled with nothing but funny stories was a bestseller, so we’re doing it again, for publication in 2022. We’re looking for those funny
KINDNESS – The deadline for submissions is AUGUST 31, 2021. Small gestures can make a big difference in someone’s day, even in someone’s life. In our fast-paced world many people tend to only pay attention to what is important to them.
MESSAGES FROM HEAVEN – The deadline for submissions is AUGUST 31, 2021. When our loved ones leave this world, our connection with them does not end. Death takes away their physical presence, but not their spirits, and we often sense them after they have gone. Sometimes we see or hear from them after they’ve passed, and they give us signs and a spiritual link from beyond.
MIRACLES – The deadline for submissions is AUGUST 31, 2021. Everyone has experienced events in their lives that cause wonder and astonishment. These miraculous happenings are completely and totally unexplainable. Why did these amazing things happen? How did these surprising and bewildering things occur?
https://www.chickensoup.com/story-submissions/possible-book-topics
JERRY JENKINS ULTIMATE GUIDE TO WRITING CONTESTS THROUGH 2021
Regardless where you are on your writing journey—from wannabe to bestseller—you can benefit from entering contests.
https://jerryjenkins.com/writing-contests/#p4
SAN FRANCISCO WRITERS CONFERENCE
The San Francisco Writers Conference is pleased to announce the 2021 San Francisco Writing Contest. The contest is open to all writers everywhere. The entry fee is $30 per entry and includes a copy of the 2021 SFWC Writing Contest Anthology. Your entry must fit into one of the following categories: Sept 2021
* Adult Fiction
* Adult Nonfiction (including memoir)
* Children’s/YA Books
* Poetry
https://www.sfwriters.org/2021-writing-contest-overview/
KOTOBEE BLOG
300+ Writing Contests You Need to Enter in 2021 – If there’s one thing we need these days, it’s consistency. Something that proves not everything has changed. Something that gives you a bout of comfort given the current circumstances. So what better way to do that than to know 2021 comes with a host of writing contests for people of all ages from all around the world?
Sort by Genre and Month
blog.kotobee.com/300-writing-contests-2021/
Poetry
POETS & WRITERS WRITING CONTESTS, GRANTS & AWARDS
The Writing Contests, Grants & Awards database includes details about the creative writing contests—including poetry contests, short story competitions, essay contests, awards for novels, and more—that we’ve published in Poets & Writers Magazine during the past year. We carefully review the practices and policies of each contest before including it. Ours is the most trusted resource for legitimate writing contests available anywhere. Sort by Genre, date, etc., using their filter
https://www.pw.org/grants?gclid=EAIaIQobChMI_Y29xan-5QIVGKSzCh3cQwAmEAMYAiAAEgJXqvD_BwE
REEDSY BEST WRITING CONTESTS OF 2021
Several contests for 2021 listed.
https://https://blog.reedsy.com/writing-contests/
ALMOND PRESS
Welcome to the most comprehensive list of creative writing competitions, short story competitions, and various events for writers.
Each item on our list includes basic information about max word count, associated fees, submission deadlines, and the maximum prize that can be won. Clicking on an item opens a new page featuring a more detailed description and a link to the organizer’s submission page. Events that are free to enter are highlighted. Scroll to view contests.
https://dystopianstories.com/writing-competitions-contests/
SAN FRANCISCO WRITERS CONFERENCE
The San Francisco Writers Conference is pleased to announce the 2021 San Francisco Writing Contest. The contest is open to all writers everywhere. The entry fee is $30 per entry and includes a copy of the 2021 SFWC Writing Contest Anthology. Your entry must fit into one of the following categories: Sept 2021
* Adult Fiction
* Adult Nonfiction (including memoir)
* Children’s/YA Books
* Poetry
https://www.sfwriters.org/2021-writing-contest-overview/
KOTOBEE BLOG
300+ Writing Contests You Need to Enter in 2021 – If there’s one thing we need these days, it’s consistency. Something that proves not everything has changed. Something that gives you a bout of comfort given the current circumstances. So what better way to do that than to know 2021 comes with a host of writing contests for people of all ages from all around the world?
Sort by Genre and Month
blog.kotobee.com/300-writing-contests-2021/
STONE SOUP
https://stonesoup.com/how-to-submit-writing-and-art-to-stone-soup/
JERRY JENKINS ULTIMATE GUIDE TO WRITING CONTESTS THROUGH 2021
Regardless where you are on your writing journey—from wannabe to bestseller—you can benefit from entering contests.
https://jerryjenkins.com/writing-contests/#p3
Romance
ROMANCE WRITERS OF AMERICA
https://www.rwa.org/Online/Events/Chapter_Events.aspx
August Contests
2021 Golden Leaf Contest
Sponsor: New Jersey Romance Writers
Fee: $30 first entry – $20 for subsequent entries.
Deadline: August 1, 2021
Entry: Published novels or novellas with a first copyright date or first North American printing date between June 2020 through May 2021. All traditional, small press, e-published, and self-published novels released in this time period are eligible. All entries will be digital.
Categories: Best First Book, Contemporary Romance: Short, Contemporary Romance: Mid-Length, Contemporary Romance: Long, Historical Romance, Romantic Novella, Paranormal Romance, Romantic Suspense, Erotic Romance, Best Book by a New Jersey Romance Author
Judges: Booksellers, librarians, readers groups, romance readers
Top Prize: Golden Leaf trophy, pin, website badge
FMI, visit http://www.njromancewriters.org/ or email the contest coordinator at GoldenLeaf@njromancewriters.org
2021 Put Your Heart in a Book Contest
Sponsor: New Jersey Romance Writers
Fee: $25, first entry; $15, second entry
Deadline: August 1, 2021, 11:59 pm Eastern Time
Entry: First thirty (30) pages of the manuscript, which may or may not include a prologue, and a projected word count of the completed manuscript. An unjudged synopsis must be included at the end of the submission, clearly defined with a page break and titled “SYNOPSIS.” The synopsis will not count toward the page count and must not exceed five (5) pages.
Judges: All first round entries are judged by two (2) published authors.
Final Judges: Final round judges consist of Literary Editors and Best-Selling Authors.
Top Prize: First prize winners in each category will receive $200.00, a trophy, a certificate, and a social media graphic.
FMI, visit https://www.njromancewriters.org/pyhiab-2021.html.
2021 Rocky Mountain Cover Contest for Published Authors
Sponsor: Colorado Romance Writers
Fee: $15
Deadline: August 31, 2021
Entry: Send a .jpg (no exceptions) of your book cover art with an original copyright date from June 2020 through 2021, eleven categories.
Judges: romance readers and authors.
FMI: go to https://coloradoromancewriters.com/
September Contests
Midnight Sun Cover Contest
Sponsor: Alaska Romance Writers (AKRWA)
Fee: $15
Deadline: Open to entries August 1, 2021 – September 1, 2021
Entry: Books published prior to August 1, 2021
FMI, https://akrwa.com/contest-1
Science Fiction
QUARKNDAGGER.COM
We’ve put together a list of writing contests or places to publish short works. These channels are ideal for young adults (teens), especially those interested in writing sci-fi and fantasy. Scroll through, put it in your calendar and get writing. If you have any you’d like to add to the list, comment below.
https://quarkndagger.com/19-writing-contests-and-publication-outlets-for-young-adults/
Screenwriting
PAGE INTERNATIONAL SCREENWRITING AWARDS
All Contests: https://pageawards.com/the-contest/
LA SCREEN PLAY AWARDS.COM
SUBMISSIONS: This is the only screenplay competition founded by a team of working Hollywood professionals with more than 1,000 produced credits and a century of collective industry experience. Our roster of Senior Judges includes multiple Oscar, Emmy, Grammy, and WGA Award Winners.
Feature Screenplay https://lascreenplayawards.com/feature-screenplay/
TV Script https://lascreenplayawards.com/tv-script/
Short Screenplay https://lascreenplayawards.com/short-screenplay/
https://lascreenplayawards.com/
NYC MIDNIGHT
Since 2002, NYC Midnight has hosted hundreds of inspiring competitions for storytellers around the world. Participants are challenged to create original stories, screenplays, or films using assigned elements under time constraints. If you enjoy a creative challenge, check out our upcoming competitions.
• Short Story Challenge
• Screenwriting Challenge
• Flash Fiction Challenge
• Microfiction Challenge/
• Short Screenplay Challenge
Self Publishing
REEDSY BEST WRITING CONTESTS OF 2021
Several contests for 2021 listed.
https://https://blog.reedsy.com/writing-contests/
Short Story
ALMOND PRESS
Welcome to the most comprehensive list of creative writing competitions, short story competitions, and various events for writers.
Each item on our list includes basic information about max word count, associated fees, submission deadlines, and the maximum prize that can be won. Clicking on an item opens a new page featuring a more detailed description and a link to the organizer’s submission page. Events that are free to enter are highlighted.
https://dystopianstories.com/writing-competitions-contests/
JERRY JENKINS ULTIMATE GUIDE TO WRITING CONTESTS THROUGH 2021
Regardless where you are on your writing journey—from wannabe to bestseller—you can benefit from entering contests.
https://jerryjenkins.com/writing-contests/#p1
STONEY BOOK SOUTHAMTON
Only undergraduates enrolled full time in United States and Canadian universities and colleges for the academic year 2020-2021 are eligible. This Prize has traditionally encouraged submissions from students with an Asian background, but we urge all students to enter. Deadline: June 1, 2021
https://www.stonybrook.edu/southampton/mfa/special_programs/fiction_guidelines.html
ANTHOLOGY MAGAZINE
The Anthology Short Story Award is now open for entries. Established to recognise and encourage creative writing and provide a platform for publication, it is open to original and previously unpublished short stories in the English language by a writer of any nationality, living anywhere in the world. Stories submitted must be on the theme of ‘Memories’ and not exceed the maximum of 1,500 words. Writers can submit as many entries as they wish. Deadline: July 31, 2021
TCK PUBLISHING
If you enjoy writing short stories, or have just recently started experimenting, entering your work in short story contests can be a great way to hone your talent and get exposure for your work. Fortunately, there are plenty of opportunities out there, and many of them come with a chance to win cash prizes or publication in a magazine! We’ve put together a list of short story contests that you can enter today so you can grow your confidence and your skills.
https://www.tckpublishing.com/short-story-contests/
WRITERS UNITE
Must be a follower of Writers Unite! on Web https://writersuniteweb.wordpress.com/(Click on Follow or join via email.)
Write a fiction story based on the theme “Courage.”
- Contributors’ work must be original and not posted on any website, social media site, magazine, or traditionally or self-published. No exceptions.
- Word count must not exceed 3000 words (minimum 1000 words).
- Story must be fiction and rated G, PG, or R. (No excessive gore or erotica.)
- Only one submission per author.
- Stories submitted via email at writersunite16@gmail.com
Subject Line: “2021 Short Story Contest.” - Submissions deadline May 31, 2021 11:59 p.m. E.T.
- A panel of three experienced authors will judge the stories anonymously.
- https://writersuniteweb.wordpress.com/2021/03/01/welcome-to-writers-unites-2021-short-story-contest/
REEDSY BEST WRITING CONTESTS OF 2021
Several contests for 2021 listed keep scrolling.
NEW Enter our short story competition – Submit a short story based on one of 5 weekly prompts. Winners get $50 and will feature on our app! Sign up to get this week’s prompts.
https://https://blog.reedsy.com/writing-contests/
NYC MIDNIGHT
Since 2002, NYC Midnight has hosted hundreds of inspiring competitions for storytellers around the world. Participants are challenged to create original stories, screenplays, or films using assigned elements under time constraints. If you enjoy a creative challenge, check out our upcoming competitions.
• Short Story Challenge
• Screenwriting Challenge
• Flash Fiction Challenge
• Microfiction Challenge/
• Short Screenplay Challenge
CHRISTOPHER FIELDEN
Below are tables listing various short story competitions. Some are based in the UK, some are global. Some contests are of high renown (like the BBC Short Story Award or the Bridport Prize), offering huge prizes, and some are lesser known, but offer great opportunities for newer writers to become published authors. I will try and keep this list up to date, but please check the rules and dates on the different competition websites before entering. PLEASE NOTE: Most of the competitions listed on this page accept entries from writers living anywhere in the world. The country each competition is run from is listed so you know which global market you are submitting to.
Students and Teachers
NEW YORK PUBLIC LIBRARY
STUFF FOR THE TEEN AGE, FOR TEACHERS AND STUDENTS, FOR TEACHERS
25 Writing Contests and Publication Opportunities for Teens
Have to scroll down the page to see 2021 contests: https://www.nypl.org/blog/2020/10/26/writing-competitions-young-adults
Teens - Young Adults
PUBLICATION OPPORTUNITIES FOR TEENS
TEEN INK: is one of the most popular and diverse writing spaces to get published in high school. The broad categories for publication reflect the diversity of writing that this lively online magazine celebrates. Some publication categories include: community service, travel and culture, the environment, health, reviews of TV shows and video games, and college essays, among the more traditional poetry, fiction, and nonfiction. Visit online at: http://www.teenink.com/
AGNI: is Boston University’s well-respected journal. It appears in both print and online. AGNI submissions are not limited to high school writers, but the journal is known to accept and publish lots of work by new writers. Get published in high school at AGNI and you’ve taken an important step to becoming a writer in the real world! Find them online at: http://www.bu.edu/agni/submit.html
THE ADROIT JOURNAL: is run by high school students, college students, and emerging writers. Adroit publishes within “over 21” and “under 21” categories, so your writing will appear alongside great work by writers of any age. Adroit publishes fiction and poetry, and includes art and photography. They will reopen our submission reading period in January 2021. Find them online at: http://www.theadroitjournal.org/
EMBER: only published twice a year, but this beautiful and dreamy journal of poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction appeals to all age groups. Although it doesn’t exclusively publish young writers, submissions from writers and artists ages 10 to 18 are strongly encouraged. Submissions open in February of 2021. For more details, visit them online at: http://emberjournal.org/
POLYPHONY LIT: invites submissions of poetry, fiction, and creative non-fiction from high school students worldwide. Student editors provide feedback to all submissions, including the ones not accepted for publication. Submissions are open from July 1 2020 – April 30, 2020. More details can be found at https://www.polyphonylit.org/.
SELECT YOUTH CONTESTS
HOT DISH MAGAZINE, an online journal serving up a bubbling mixture of poetry and fiction by teens (grades 9–12), wants your voice to be heard! We award cash prizes for fiction, poetry, and the Hot Dish Challenge. Our submission period is October-January. Visit us at www.hotdishmagazine.com.
GIRLS RIGHT THE WORLD is a literary journal inviting young, female-identified writers and artists, ages 14–21, to submit work for consideration for the fourth annual issue. We believe girls’ voices transform the world for the better. We accept poetry, prose, and visual art of any style or theme. We ask to be the first to publish your work in North America; after publication, the rights return to you. Please include a note mentioning your age, where you’re from, and a bit about your submission. Send your best work, in English or English translation, to girlsrighttheworld@gmail.com between September 1 and December 31. https://www.girlswritenow.org/contests/
THE LUMIERE REVIEW is a literary magazine dedicated to shining the light on all voices (particularly young creatives) through poetry, prose, and art. We’ll be running our first annual writing contest for poetry and prose, which will be open for submission from December 1st to January 15th. Updates will be made on our social media accounts (@lumierereview on twitter and instagram). Details on the contest guidelines can be found at https://lumierereview.com/contest.
PRINCIPIA PERSPECTIVES WRITING CONTEST is an annual writing contest that centers around a specific theme each year. This year, the theme is family. What stories define “family” for you? We don’t limit “family” to blood relatives; any person, group of people, or community that fulfills that role is an option. We also don’t want to limit you to COVID-19 stories—the purpose here is not to reflect on the pandemic, but rather, family. Anything goes as long as the theme is addressed in a thoughtful manner. The contest is open to middle and high schoolers. View contest details and guidelines at https://www.principiatutors.com/principia-perspectives-contest.
NEWS PAGES
Where young writers can find print and online literary magazines to read, places to publish their own works, and legitimate contests. Some publish only young writers, some publish all ages for young readers. For specific submission guidelines, visit the publication’s website. Ages can include elementary, teen, or early college. This is an ad-free resource: publications and writing contests listed here have not paid to be included. This guide is maintained by Editor Denise Hill, a teacher who loves to encourage young writers.
Sort Deadline by Month: https://www.newpages.com/writers-resources/young-writers-guide-to-contests
NEW YORK PUBLIC LIBRARY
STUFF FOR THE TEEN AGE, FOR TEACHERS AND STUDENTS, FOR TEACHERS
25 Writing Contests and Publication Opportunities for Teens
Have to scroll down the page to see 2021 contests:
https://www.nypl.org/blog/2020/10/26/writing-competitions-young-adults
HOLLYWOOD SCHOOLHOUSE
Several different contests and different sites.
http://hshla.org/writing-contests
QUARKNDAGGER.COM
We’ve put together a list of writing contests or places to publish short works. These channels are ideal for young adults (teens), especially those interested in writing sci-fi and fantasy. Scroll through, put it in your calendar and get writing. If you have any you’d like to add to the list, comment below.
https://quarkndagger.com/19-writing-contests-and-publication-outlets-for-young-adults/
SAN FRANCISCO WRITERS CONFERENCE
The San Francisco Writers Conference is pleased to announce the 2021 San Francisco Writing Contest. The contest is open to all writers everywhere. The entry fee is $30 per entry and includes a copy of the 2021 SFWC Writing Contest Anthology. Your entry must fit into one of the following categories: Sept 2021
* Adult Fiction
* Adult Nonfiction (including memoir)
* Children’s/YA Books
* Poetry
Worklshops / Chapter Events
Romance Writers of America
AUGUST 2021 ONLINE WORKSHOPS
Characterization: Making Strengths and Weaknesses Work for You
Sponsor: RWA Online Chapter
Fee: $15; Free for RWA Online Chapter members
Date: August 2–27, 2021
Presenter: Linnea Sinclair
FMI: https://rwaonlinechapter.org/workshops-3/aug-2020-characterization/
Getting Spy Thrillers Right
Sponsor: Kiss of Death
Fee: $20, KOD members; $25, RWA members; $35, non-members
Date: August 2–27, 2021
Presenter: Michael McConnick
FMI, https://www.rwakissofdeath.org/coffin
Heroines in Peril: Pack Those Punches with Realism
Sponsor: Kiss of Death
Fee: $20, KOD members; $25, RWA members; $35, non-members
Date: August 2–27, 2021
Presenter: Kelle Z Riley
FMI, https://www.rwakissofdeath.org/coffin
Dress Your Tech for Success: Advanced Marketing/Tech Tips for Authors
Sponsor: Yosemite Romance Writers
Fee: $30, members; $35, non-members
Date: August 2–28, 2021
Presenter: Kerry Blaisdell
FMI, http://www.yosemiteromancewriters.com
50 Ways to Leave Your Muse: Creativity Hacks for Writers
Sponsor: Contemporary Romance Writers
Fee: $15 for CRW members; $25 for RWA members; $35 for non-RWA members
Date: August 2–30, 2021
Presenter: Joy Held
FMI, http://contemporaryromance.org/workshops/
The Power of Prewriting
Sponsor: Contemporary Romance Writers
Fee: $15 for CRW members; $25 for RWA members; $35 for non-RWA members
Date: August 2–30, 2021
Presenter: Ivy Quinn
FMI, http://contemporaryromance.org/workshops/
Those Who Forget History: Using Backstory to Enhance Your Novel
Sponsor: Contemporary Romance Writers
Fee: $15 for CRW members; $25 for RWA members; $35 for non-RWA members
Date: August 2–31, 2021
Presenter: Cynthia Owens
FMI, http://contemporaryromance.org/workshops/
Character Archetypes Series Part 1: Male Archetypes
Sponsor: Contemporary Romance Writers
Fee: $15 for CRW members; $25 for RWA members; $35 for non-RWA members
Date: August 7, 2021, at 1 p.m. ET / 12 p.m. CT / 10 a.m. PT
Presenter: Mary Buckham
FMI, http://contemporaryromance.org/workshops/
When Two Authors Are Better
Sponsor: OIRWA
Fee: $25, members; $35, non-members
Date: August 7–25, 2021
FMI, http://www.oirwa.com/forum/campus/
Here Be Dragons
Sponsor: OIRWA
Fee: $25, members; $35, non-members
Date: August 7–27, 2021
FMI, http://www.oirwa.com/forum/campus/
Killer Conflict
Sponsor: Hearts Through History RWA
Fee: $10, members; $20, nonmembers
Date: August 9–20, 2021
FMI, https://www.heartsthroughhistory.com/
Websites Basics for Authors Part 3
Sponsor: Kiss of Death
Fee: $15, KOD members; $20, RWA members; $30, non-members
Date: August 9–20, 2021
Presenter: Crystal Ramos
FMI, https://www.rwakissofdeath.org/coffin
TikTok and Reels for Authors
Sponsor: Contemporary Romance Writers
Fee: $15 for CRW members; $25 for RWA members; $35 for non-RWA members
Date: August 14, 2021, at 1 p.m. ET / 12 p.m. CT / 10 a.m. PT
Presenter: Mariah Ankenman
FMI, http://contemporaryromance.org/workshops/
⭐ Added After Mailout on May 1, 2021
AGENTS & EDITORS
- 60 Calls for Submissions in June 2021 – Paying markets
- Agents: Knowing When To Hold One and When To Fold
- Getting Offers from Multiple Literary Agents
- Literary Agents List
- Preditors and Editors
- Publishing, Writing Terms, Acronyms
- Tips for a Successful Editor Appointment
- Want More? Here’s How to Get It
- What NOT to Do When Beginning Your Novel
- Windup for the (Story) Pitch
- Write the Perfect Book Proposal
CALLS FOR SUBMISSION
- 2023 MAR Calls for Submissions
- 2023 FEB Calls for Submissions
- 2023 JAN Calls for Submissions
- 2022 DEC Calls for Submission
- 2022 NOV Calls for Submission
- 2022 OCT Calls for Submission
- 2022 SEP Calls for Submission
- 2022 AUG Calls for Submission
- 2022 JUL Calls for Submission
- 2022 JUN Calls for Submission
- 2022 MAY Calls for Submission
- 2022 APR Calls for Submission
- 2022 MAR Calls for Submission
COMPUTER TIPS
- ASCII Characters
- Building Your Web Site and Doing It Right
- Don’t Be a Victim-Scams, Identity Theft, Urban Legends
- Don’t Spread Scams
- How to Annoy Your Website Visitors
- Knowing Your Target Audience
- Stopping Viruses from Propagating Through Your Email
- The Top 10 Email Errors
- Word Processors Through Time: Before MS Word & Google Docs
FORMATTING & GRAMMAR
- Achieving 250 Words / 25 Lines Per Page
- And Sammy, too? Oh, No!
- Changing Double Hyphens to EM Dashes in Word
- Edit Easier
- High Hopes–Avoiding Common Mistakes
- Misused Words
- Navigating In Your Novel
- Proofreaders Marks
- Research Links
- Rules for Writers
- Slang and Jargon Souces
- Tightening Your Manuscript and Trimming the Word Count
INSPIRATION-MOTIVATION
- A Dream Realized
- Dumb Little Writing Tricks That Work
- Finding Time to Write
- Five Ways to Promote Yourself
- Fun Inspirations 1
- Fun Inspirations 2
- Fun Inspirations 3
- Fun Inspirations 4
- How Not to Procrastinate
- How to Quit Writing and End up on the Bestseller Lists
- Love to Write: Here Is How You Can Build Your Career
- Making Time for Self-Care While Running a Business
- Moving Up the Rejection Ladder
- Pop Quiz: Who Are You?
- Rules for Writers
- The Art of Being Rejected–475 Words
- The Juggling Act
- The Literary Food Chain
- Write Better Naked
- Writer’s Conferences Do You Really Need To Attend?
- Writing By Moonlight
MARKETS
- 35 Online Work Ideas to Earn Good Money Whilst Studying
- Copyright Primer, Know Your Rights
- EBooks-Fears to Possibilities
- Finding Markets Fiction and Nonfiction
- Freelance Writing 101
- How To Be a (Shiver) Reporter
- How To Market Your Book After You’ve Written It
- Love to Write: Here Is How You Can Build Your Career
- Magazine Links
- Making Money As a Corporate Freelancer
- Market News–All Genres
- Newspaper Writing Resources
- Path to Self-Publishing Success
- Publishing, Writing Terms, Acronyms
- Science Writing Organizations
- Selling to Children’s Markets
- Submission Tracking
- Submitting to UK Markets
- Syndication 101
- To Specialize, or Not to Specialize?
- Why E-Books?
- Writing Groups List
- Youth Writing Markets
PUBLISHING
- 60 Calls for Submissions in June 2021 – Paying markets
- Copyright Primer, Know Your Rights
- How To Market Your Book After You’ve Written It
- Love to Write: Here Is How You Can Build Your Career
- Making Money As a Corporate Freelancer
- Path to Self-Publishing Success
- Publishers Websites
- Publishing, Writing Terms, Acronyms
- Submission Tracking
- The Great Limbo Mystery Question
VIDEO & STREAMING LINKS
WRITING TOOLS - APPS
- Dumb Little Writing Tricks That Work
- Free AI Tools That Can Be Used In Business Writing
- Helpful Books
- Knowing Your Target Audience
- Magazine Links
- Newspaper Writing Resources
- Reconsider Hand Writing
- Research Links
- Slang and Jargon Souces
- Unblocking Your Muze
- Word Processors Through Time: Before MS Word & Google Docs
- Writing Groups List
WRITER'S LIFE
WRITING CONTESTS
WRITING CONTESTS
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• ALL WRITING CONTESTS
- 2023 MAR Contests, Workshops, Webinars
- 2023 FEB Contests, Workshops, Webinars
- 2023 JAN Contests, Workshops, Webinars
- 2022 DEC Contests, Workshops, Webinars
- 2022 NOV Contests, Workshops, Webinars
- 2022 OCT Contests, Workshops, Webinars
- 2022 SEP Contests, Workshops, Webinars
- 2022 AUG Contests, Workshops, Webinars
- 2022 JUL Contests, Workshops, Webinars
- 2022 JUN Contests, Workshops, Webinars
- 2022 MAY Contests, Workshops, Webinars
- 2022 APR Contests, Workshops, Webinars
ABOUT WRITING CONTESTS
