Genre: Poetry

A prize of $2,500 and publication on the Poetry Society of America website is given annually to a poet over 40 who has published no more than one poetry collection. Using only the online submission system, submit 10 pages of poetry with a $15 entry fee by December 31. There is no entry fee for PSA members. Visit the website for complete guidelines.

A prize of $1,000 and publication by University of Nebraska Press and Amalion, an independent publishing house based in Dakar, is given annually for a debut poetry collection by an African poet. Writers who were born in Africa, are African nationals or residents, or whose parents are African are eligible. The African Poetry Book Fund editorial board will judge. Using only the online submission system, submit a manuscript of at least 50 pages by December 1. There is no entry fee. Visit the website for complete guidelines.

A prize of $1,000 is given annually for a poetry collection published during the current year. The winner is also invited to read at the Poetry Society of Virginia’s annual Spring Poetry Festival, held at the Library of Virginia in Richmond, Virginia, in May 2025. Self-published books are ineligible. Thomas Gardner will judge. Submit three copies of a book no less than 50 pages in length that was published in 2024 with a $36 entry fee ($25 for current PSV members), which includes a one-year membership to the organization, by January 15, 2025. Visit the website for the required entry form and complete guidelines.

A prize of $1,000, publication by Alternating Current Press, and 25 author copies will be given annually for a poetry collection, story collection, essay collection, novel, memoir, or book-length hybrid work on the theme of Colorado or by a writer born, raised, or residing in Colorado (or who has resided in Colorado for at least three years). The winner will also be given the opportunity to participate in a book tour in Colorado. All entries are considered for publication. Using only the online submission system, submit a manuscript of any length with an $18 entry fee by December 31. Visit the website for complete guidelines.