Mo Siewcharran Prize 2026 for Writing
By: The Mo Siewcharran PrizeLast update:
Applicant criteria
NationalityNo specific nationality required
Age
- No specific age required
Gender
- Both
Opportunity criteria
Job locationUnited Kingdom
Deadline2026-05-15
Opportunity description
The Mo Siewcharran Prize 2026 opens for entries on February 2, 2026. This writing competition aims to support unagented, unpublished writers resident in the UK from Black, Asian, mixed heritage, and/or multiple ethnic backgrounds. Submissions should be novels in the romance or psychological thriller genres. Participants must be 18 or older.
- Entry requirements: a synopsis of the novel (up to 700 words) and the first 10,000 words of the novel.
- Entry fee: Free
- Prizes: The winner receives £2,500, editorial feedback from a Bookouture editor, and an introductory meeting with a literary agent.
- Their submission will also be considered for publication.
- Runners-up receive £1,500 and £750, along with editorial feedback.
Key Dates:
- February 2, 2026 – Submissions open
- May 2, 2026 – Submissions close
- June 15, 2026 – Longlist announced
- September 8, 2026 – Shortlist announced
- September 24, 2026 – Winner announced at the awards ceremony
Benefits
Monetary prizes and editorial opportunities with a literary agent.
Eligibility criteria
- Unpublished writers
- Applicants must reside in the UK and be from mixed ethnic backgrounds
- Must be aged 18 or over