£5,000 total prize pool in our 2025 Open Short Story Contest!
Have a story sitting in a drawer—or an idea you’ve been meaning to explore? Never written a short story before? Our 2025 Open Short Story Contest is open to writers of all levels, whether this is your first contest or your fiftieth!
Why Enter?
Low Barrier to Entry: Submit an existing story — or start fresh with our step-by-step guidance for first-time short story writers.
Helpful Resources Along the Way: During the contest, we’ll send you articles and tips, including a guide for beginners with a clear plan for writing your first story during this contest.
Grow Your Writing: Receive actionable feedback from your fellow writers. Or, get an in-depth story critique from us. Your story will benefit from fresh insights and thoughtful critique.
Join a Supportive Community: Connect with hundreds of writers sharing stories and learning together.
Every Writer Can Win: Win big with our £5,000 total prize pool, including a £1,500 Bonus Prize Draw, where every participant has a chance to win, no matter how their story performs!
Confidence Boost: Every story has potential. Entering is a step towards improving your craft and celebrating your creativity.
And the support doesn’t stop when the contest ends.
We continue to celebrate and support our members long after the contest closes — helping publicise their books, sharing their achievements, and keeping the creative community active and welcoming.
This contest is more than just a chance to win! It’s an opportunity to learn, grow, and be part of a welcoming, ongoing writing community, with resources to guide you from your first draft to your final submission and beyond.
Take the plunge — sign up, get guidance along the way, and submit your story with confidence!
