Contests can be a valuable stepping stone to getting published.
I've hand picked the following contests based on my own personal criteria for entering contests, which includes story length, entry fees, prizes, and timelines. While this represents only a small number of contests being held during this time frame, it will give you a great place to start. Entering contests is a fabulous way to practice your craft, try new genres, challenge yourself, and get valuable publishing credits. Click on any link below to learn more.
$15 entry fee for up to 5,000 words of fiction. Top prize is $500 and publication in the journal. Due March 15th.
Tom Howard/John H. Reid Short Story Contest
$12 entry fee for up to 5,000 words in a short story. Top prize is $1200. Due March 31st.
$25 entry fee for the first 20 pages of your murder mystery. Due March 31st.
$1,100 first place award for 3,000 word short story. $15 entry fee, due April 30th.
Original fiction pieces 500 - 5000 words long. $5.00 entry fee with submissions due April 30, 2007.
