The New Voices Fiction Award presented by Jitney Books
Official Contest Guidelines
The New Voices Fiction Award celebrates bold, original short fiction from emerging and established writers alike. We are seeking compelling stories across all genres that challenge, entertain, surprise, and linger in the reader’s mind long after the final sentence. We are excited for this contest and can’t wait to read your submissions.
Prizes
First Place
- $200 Cash Prize
- Publication of the winning story
- Featured author interview published alongside the story
Second Place
- $50 Cash Prize
- Publication in The Jitney
Third Place
- Publication in The Jitney
In addition to the winners, selected finalists may also be considered for longlist or shortlist recognition.
Contest Timeline
- Submission Deadline: July 15
- Winners Announced: Within one month of the submission deadline
Eligibility
- Open internationally
- No age restrictions
- Writers of all backgrounds and experience levels are encouraged to submit
- Must be in English
Submission Guidelines
- Fiction or creative non-fiction
- Any genre accepted
- Minimum Length: 500 words
- Maximum length: 2,000 words
- Stories must be original and previously unpublished
- Simultaneous submissions are allowed, but authors must notify us immediately if the story is accepted elsewhere
Formatting Requirements
- Times New Roman
- 12-point font
- Double-spaced
- Standard document margins
- Include page numbers
Entry Fee
- $15 reading fee
Multiple submissions are welcome. Each entry requires a separate reading fee.
AI Policy
Submissions must be the original work of the author.
Stories generated wholly or substantially through artificial intelligence tools are not eligible. The editorial team reserves the right to disqualify any submission suspected of violating this policy.
Final Judge
J.J. Colagrande
Publication Rights
- First North American Serial Rights
(or First World Rights, depending on publication format)
Authors retain full copyright to their work. Rights revert to the author after initial publication.
Legal Notice
This contest is void where prohibited by law.
More info coming soon on where to submit your contest entry.
