Writer in Residence
The Idaho Writer in Residence grant honors an Idaho writer to promote literary excellence statewide through public readings, workshops, and outreach, especially in underserved communities.
Funder: Idaho Commission on the Arts
Due Dates: January 31, 2027 (Full application deadline, 11:59 p.m. Mountain Time)
Funding Amounts: $5,000 annually (plus allowable travel reimbursement); two-year term
Summary: Biennial award recognizing an Idaho writer to promote literary excellence through community engagement statewide.
Key Information: Applications are reviewed anonymously; recipients must complete community activities and a final report.
Description
The Writer in Residence grant is the highest literary honor and largest financial award offered to an Idaho writer by the Idaho Commission on the Arts. This biennial residency is designed to foster an appreciation for literary excellence across Idaho, with a strong emphasis on outreach to underserved communities. The selected writer serves as a literary ambassador, conducting readings, workshops, presentations, and projects throughout the state, and is required to complete a minimum of four community engagements per year (with at least 6 of 8 total events in underserved areas over the two-year term). Applications are reviewed anonymously by a panel of out-of-state literary experts. The recipient must submit a final report at the end of their term to remain eligible for future funding.
