Genre: Creative Nonfiction

A prize of $10,000 and publication with DLJ Books, the imprint of Columbus State University Press, will be given annually for a book of fiction or creative nonfiction “that engages a reader with upholding human values, such as trust, generosity, love, gratitude, or responsibility.” Maureen Gibbon will judge. Using only the online submission system, submit a manuscript of any length with a $25 entry fee by October 15. Visit the website for complete guidelines.

A prize of $2,000 and publication in Epiphany is given annually for a poem or a group of poems, a work of fiction, or a work of creative nonfiction. The winner will also be offered a one-year editorial fellowship at Epiphany. BIPOC writers who do not have an advanced degree in creative writing and are not currently enrolled in a degree-granting program are eligible. Using only the online submission system, submit up to five pages of poetry or prose and a cover letter by November 1. There is no entry fee. Visit the website for complete guidelines.

Three grants of $500 each are given annually in poetry, fiction, and nonfiction to “elevate, encourage, and inspire the voices of Black writers in Georgia.” Grantees also receive a scholarship to attend and present a reading at the Red Clay Writers Conference, held in March 2026 at Kennesaw State University in Marietta, Georgia. Black writers who have been residents of Georgia for at least one year (or who are full-time students at a Georgia college or university at the time of application and on the date of the award) and who have published no more than one book are eligible to apply. Submit a poetry or prose writing sample of up to 10 pages and an artist’s statement of no more than 500 words discussing your work and goals as a writer by October 1. There is no entry fee. Visit the website for an application and complete guidelines.

Fellowships of approximately $60,000 each are given annually to poets, fiction writers, and creative nonfiction writers on the basis of “exceptional creative ability.” Citizens and permanent residents of the United States and Canada who are midcareer professionals and have “already made significant contributions to their field” are eligible. Using only the online submission system, submit a career summary, a list of publications, a three-page project proposal, and contact information for up to four references by September 16. There is no entry fee. Visit the website for complete guidelines.