Southern Prize for Literature
Forecasted
Southern Prize for Literature supports individual writers with flexible funding and writing residencies to advance original book-length manuscripts through research, revision, and artistic development.
This grant was recently updated
Award notifications have moved from November 2026 to January 2027.
Funder: South Arts
Due Dates (Anticipated): October 2027 (Application deadline)
Funding Amounts: One $25,000 award and two $10,000 awards, plus sponsored residencies
Summary: Supports individual writers developing original book-length manuscripts through flexible funding for writing, revision, research, and artistic development.
Key Information: Applicants must be sole authors and full-time residents of South Arts’ nine-state region throughout the award.
Description
South Arts’ Southern Prize for Literature supports writers developing original book-length manuscripts at a stage when dedicated time and resources can meaningfully advance the work. All literary genres are eligible, including draft chapters, manuscripts undergoing substantial revision, and exploratory writing that demonstrates elements such as structure, character, argument, or voice.
The program places equal emphasis on artistic excellence and artistic merit, valuing originality, command of craft, distinctive voice, creative risk-taking, and promise for continued development. Funding supports the creative process rather than a required finished outcome: recipients do not have to complete or publish their manuscripts during the award period. A partnership with The Betsy Hotel provides sponsored writing residencies in Miami Beach, alongside promotion and opportunities for literary engagement.
