Annual Short Story Competition 2027

Writing a story is fun.

Developing a story within a specific theme is challenging.

Creating a short story with purpose shows deliberation.

Deadline: January 31, 2027

One Grand Prize Winner: Will be awarded (1) recognition as the NAIWE Short Story Winner on NAIWE.org, (2) a book authored by one of our NAIWE members (U.S. residents only), (3) the choice of one recording from the NAIWE On-Demand Training Center, (4) an interview on The Freelance Life, and (5) publication of the winning short story in The Edge

Entry Fee: $40 first entry ($35 for second entry)

Theme: Memoir, nonfiction

Submission Guidelines: This contest is for original, unpublished short stories of 3,000 words or fewer related to this year’s theme. Multiple entries are accepted, but not simultaneous submissions. Stories must be submitted in English, Microsoft Word format, double spaced, 1″ margins, 12-point typeface, and Times New Roman font.

After the competition judging is finished, entries eligible to receive quality feedback by a professional editor for only $50. This feedback will review the short story, searching for consistency or for ways to sharpen setting, imagery, symbolism, foreshadowing, characterization, and plot.

Winners will be announced in March 2027.

NAIWE will have the right to publish the winning entry in The Edge and in an anthology.