Emerging Voices Award
The Emerging Voices Award supports underrepresented writers and writer-illustrators in children's literature with conference tuition, industry exposure, and professional development from SCBWI.
Funder: Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators
Due Dates: July 31, 2026 (Full application deadline; portal open July 1–31, 2026)
Funding Amounts: Two awards: full tuition to a virtual SCBWI conference, industry exposure, and professional development support.
Summary: Supports emerging writers and writer-illustrators from underrepresented backgrounds in children's literature with professional development and industry connections.
Description
The Emerging Voices Award, established by the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI) with support from the 455 Foundation, aims to foster the emergence of diverse voices in children’s literature. The award is specifically designed for writers and writer-illustrators from traditionally underrepresented backgrounds in America. Recipients receive full tuition to a virtual conference of their choice (excluding the Portfolio Showcase and subject to availability for intensives), publicity through SCBWI channels, a special presentation to acquiring agents and editors, and guidance from SCBWI staff to help advance their professional careers.
