Tags: first book awards

Four prizes of $1,000 each are given annually for a poetry collection, a debut novel, a book of fiction, and a book of nonfiction (including creative nonfiction) by African American writers published in the United States in the current year. The awards honor books that depict the “cultural, historical, or sociopolitical aspects of the Black Diaspora.” Publishers may nominate books published in 2025 by December 31. There is no entry fee. Visit the website for a list of jurors to whom books should be sent and complete guidelines.

A prize of $5,000 is given annually for a debut novel published during the current year. The winner is also provided money for the cost of travel and lodging to attend the Cabell First Novelist Award event at VCU in fall 2026. A committee of VCU faculty and MFA candidates will judge. Agents, editors, and authors may submit one digital copy and five hard copies of a book published in 2025 by December 30. There is no entry fee. Visit the website for complete guidelines.

Five prizes of $1,000 each and publication by University of Massachusetts Press are given annually for a debut poetry collection, a poetry collection by an author who has previously published a book, a short story collection, a novel, and a book of creative nonfiction. Using only the online submission system, submit a poetry manuscript of 60 to 95 pages, a story collection or novel of 55,000 to 75,000 words, or a memoir, book of narrative nonfiction, biography, or essay collection of 50,000 to 70,000 words with a $30 entry fee by September 30. Visit the website for complete guidelines.

A prize of $1,000 and publication by Elixir Press is given annually for a first or second poetry collection. Kathleen Winter will judge. Submit a manuscript of at least 48 pages with a $30 entry fee by March 31. All entries are considered for publication. Visit the website for complete guidelines.