Where can you find writing opportunities and grants?

1 Online platforms

One of the easiest ways to find writing opportunities and grants is to browse online platforms that curate and list them for writers. Some examples of such platforms are Submittable, Poets & Writers, Funds for Writers, and The Write Life. These platforms offer various filters and categories to help you narrow down your search, such as genre, deadline, fee, award, and eligibility. You can also sign up for their newsletters or follow them on social media to get regular updates on new and upcoming opportunities and grants.

2 Contests and awards

Another way to find writing opportunities and grants is to enter contests and awards that offer cash prizes, publication, or recognition for your work. There are many contests and awards for writers, covering different genres, themes, formats, and audiences. Some examples are the Writer's Digest Annual Writing Competition, the PEN America Literary Awards, the Pushcart Prize, and the National Book Award. You can find contests and awards on online platforms, as well as on literary magazines, journals, and organizations' websites. Before you enter a contest or award, make sure you read the guidelines carefully, follow the submission rules, and pay attention to the deadlines and fees.

3 Residencies and fellowships

If you are looking for more intensive and immersive writing opportunities and grants, you might want to consider applying for residencies and fellowships. These are programs that offer writers time, space, resources, mentorship, or stipends to work on their projects, develop their craft, or connect with other writers. Some examples of residencies and fellowships are the MacDowell Colony, the Yaddo Corporation, the Iowa Writers' Workshop, and the Guggenheim Fellowship. You can find residencies and fellowships on online platforms, as well as on academic institutions, cultural centers, and foundations' websites. Before you apply for a residency or fellowship, make sure you check the eligibility criteria, the application requirements, and the program details.

4 Networks and communities

A fourth way to find writing opportunities and grants is to join networks and communities of writers who share your interests, goals, or backgrounds. These are groups that offer support, feedback, information, or opportunities for writers, such as writing groups, associations, clubs, or forums. Some examples of networks and communities are the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators, the Romance Writers of America, the Writers Guild of America, and the NaNoWriMo community. You can find networks and communities on online platforms, as well as on local events, workshops, or conferences. Before you join a network or community, make sure you understand its purpose, rules, and benefits.

5 Personal contacts

A final way to find writing opportunities and grants is to use your personal contacts, such as friends, family, colleagues, or mentors, who might know of or have access to relevant sources of support for writers. These are people who can offer you referrals, recommendations, introductions, or advice on how to find and apply for writing opportunities and grants. You can use your personal contacts by reaching out to them directly, asking for their help, or sharing your work and goals with them. Before you use your personal contacts, make sure you are respectful, grateful, and professional in your communication and interaction with them.

Finding writing opportunities and grants can be challenging, but also rewarding. By using these tips, you can increase your chances of finding and securing the support you need for your writing career.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?