Writing contests help Indie Writers Go From Slush Pile to Stardom
- Anna Marie Riley
- Apr 1
- 4 min read
If I'm being honest, I hate awards. I mean I despise them. I even conducted graduate research on how awards can actually make their chosen field worse. So when I left academia to write novels, I couldn't have cared less about contests.
I was wrong. Sort of.
I still think awards, in general, are done poorly. But they do have one redeeming quality: they elevate good work. The Oscars may not always select the best actress, director, or cinematographer. But they don't
celebrate mediocrity either. The same can be said for writing contests.
The life of an Indie writer is tough. Gaining recognition for your work can take time, money, or both. This is where writing contests can be helpful.
So Why Enter Writing Contests?
Before diving into the specific contests, let's consider what you stand to gain:
Industry recognition and credibility
Professional feedback on your work
Marketing opportunities (winner badges, press releases)
Networking with other authors and industry professionals
Potential cash prizes and publishing opportunities
So which ones should you enter? First, consider how much money you're willing to spend for entry fees, how old your book is, and the sort of prize you're looking for (money, guidance, and promotion are among the awards offered). Also, consider what feedback (if any) is offered, even if you don't win. That alone can make your entry worthwhile.
Top Writing Contests for Indie Authors
The BookLife Prize
Run by Publishers Weekly, this annual contest evaluates self-published books across multiple categories including Fiction, Nonfiction, and Children's books. Each entry receives a critical assessment from a Publishers Weekly reviewer, making this contest valuable even if you don't win.
Eligibility Requirements:
Must be self-published or independently published
Books must have been published within the last year
English-language submissions only
Print and ebook formats accepted
No minimum/maximum page count requirements
Entry Fee: $99 Prize: $5,000 grand prize, exposure in Publishers Weekly Deadline: Typically falls in August-September (check website for current dates)
Writer's Digest Self-Published Book Awards
One of the longest-running and most respected competitions for indie authors, this contest offers categories for both fiction and nonfiction across multiple genres.
Eligibility Requirements:
Must be self-published
Books published by hybrid publishers are eligible
Publication date must be within the previous 5 years
ISBN required
Available in both print and digital formats
Entry Fee: $99-$125 Prize: $8,000 grand prize, feature in Writer's Digest Magazine, marketing package Deadline: Varies by year (typically April-May)
Independent Author Network Book of the Year Awards
This contest recognizes outstanding works by independent authors across numerous categories and provides winners with promotional opportunities through the IAN network.
Eligibility Requirements:
Self-published or published by a small/independent press
Books published within the last 3 years
Available in English
Both print and ebook formats accepted
Must have an ISBN
Entry Fee: $75-$95 Prize: Recognition, promotional opportunities, winner badges Deadline: Usually March 31st
The Eric Hoffer Book Award
This prestigious award honors independent books of exceptional merit. Named after the American philosopher Eric Hoffer, it includes categories for small, academic, and independent presses.
Eligibility Requirements:
Open to academic, small, micro, and self-publishers
Books must be published within the last 2 years
English-language titles only
Print books only (no ebooks)
No length restrictions
Entry Fee: $60-$75 Prize: Various cash prizes, recognition Deadline: January (check website for exact date)
The IndieReader Discovery Awards
Dedicated solely to independently published authors, these awards provide winners with exposure to industry professionals, including agents, publishers, and fellow authors.
Eligibility Requirements:
Must be self-published or published by a hybrid press
Books published within the last 2 years
Available in English
Both print and digital formats accepted
Must have an ISBN or ASIN
Entry Fee: $150-$170 Prize: Exposure to industry professionals, review in IndieReader Deadline: Typically early spring (check website for current dates)
The Next Generation Indie Book Awards
As one of the largest international awards programs for indie authors and publishers, this contest offers over 70 categories with cash prizes and significant industry exposure.
Eligibility Requirements:
Independent publishers, university presses, self-publishers
Books published within the previous 3 years
International submissions accepted
English-language titles only
Both print and ebook formats eligible for most categories
Entry Fee: $75-$95 Prize: Cash prizes up to $1,500, medals, certificates, exposure opportunities Deadline: Usually February-March
The IPPY Awards (Independent Publisher Book Awards)
Recognizing excellence in independent publishing, the IPPY Awards have been showcasing the best indie books for over 25 years across numerous regional and subject categories.
Eligibility Requirements:
Independently published books
Small press, university press, self-publisher, or author-publisher
Books released within the last year
Print copies required for judging (no digital-only submissions)
ISBN required
Entry Fee: $75-$95 Prize: Gold, silver, and bronze medals, promotion at publishing events Deadline: Typically January-March (check website for current dates)
Tips for Contest Success
Read the guidelines carefully: Each contest has specific requirements regarding formatting, word count, and submission materials.
Polish your work: Have your manuscript professionally edited and proofread before submitting.
Choose the right category: Selecting the appropriate genre or category can significantly impact your chances of success.
Plan your budget: Most contests have entry fees, so prioritize those that offer the most value for your specific goals.
Use feedback constructively: Even if you don't win, many contests provide valuable feedback that can help improve your work.
Check eligibility requirements twice: Make sure your book meets all criteria before paying entry fees.
Keep track of deadlines: Create a calendar of contest deadlines to ensure you don't miss submission windows.
Final Thoughts
Writing contests offer indie authors more than just the chance to win prizes—they provide valuable exposure, professional connections, and opportunities for growth. Whether you're a first-time author or have several books under your belt, these contests can help elevate your writing career to the next level.
Most importantly, remember that winning isn't everything. The process of preparing your work for submission and receiving professional feedback is invaluable for your development as an author.
Best of luck with your submission and let us know how it goes!!!
This blog post was last updated in March 2025. Contest details may change, so always verify information on the official contest websites before submitting.
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