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Past Chapter One Writing Competition Winners

Chapter One Writing Competition

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GUIDELINES

 

Chapter One is a writing competition designed to showcase written works of art by self-published and unpublished Black writers.

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WHO CAN APPLY?

The competition is open to self-published and unpublished fiction, non-fiction, and poetry writers of African descent. 

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CATEGORIES

(1) Fiction

(2) Non-Fiction

(3) Poetry

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FEE

$39 non-refundable application fee. This fee includes a review of your work by an experienced beta reader or editor. Scores and feedback will be returned to applicants after the competition concludes. 

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SCORING

The review panel will consist of experienced beta readers and editors. Submissions will be read and scored based on originality, creativity, writing skills, and grammar. Applicants will have access to scores and feedback after the competition concludes.

 

DEADLINE
All applications are due June 1st. Scoring will start on June 15th. Winners will be announced on August 1st, 2025.

PRIZES

TOP PRIZES
Fiction: $250 cash + Trophy + Livestreamed Interview 
Non-Fiction: $250 cash + Trophy + Livestreamed Interview
Poetry: $250 cash + Trophy + Livestreamed Interview
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Plus, select authors will receive an exclusive 'first-look' and traditional publishing deal consideration
by the team at Village Care Publishing, https://villagecares.com/.
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ADDITIONAL PRIZES
All second and third-place winners will be recognized via social media and interviewed.

HOW TO REGISTER?
To apply, complete the online application by clicking below. Be prepared to provide the following information:
(1) Fiction & Non-Fiction: Upload up to 10 pages of a self-published or unpublished manuscript. 
(2) Poetry: Upload 5-7 finished poems. Poems must have a similar theme.

If you are interested in joining our review board, register HERE.

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