Bursaries for under represented writers

The memoir bursary scheme will open for applications on 1st July and close on 5th August.  Applications will be reviewed after the closing date and all writers notified by 31st August. 

Writers who have received bursaries this year for another competition category are not eligible to apply.

We aim to support as many writers as we can each year through the bursary scheme. Those who received a bursary in any category in 2025 are not eligible to apply again this year but may apply in 2027.

A writer may receive a maximum of two bursaries in total.

The bursary scheme

Our bursary scheme gives under represented writers a free entry to The Bridport Prize competition in any category. For the purposes of the scheme, we define under-represented as one or more of the following categories:

• Disabled
• Ex-offender
• LGBTQIA+
• Long term illness
• Low household income
• National, ethnic, linguistic, religious or other minority group
• Primary carer

Future applications

Applications for poetry, short story, flash fiction and novel bursaries and student bursaries will open on 1st December 2026 and close on 20th February 2027. Applications will be reviewed after the closing date and all applicants notified by 31st March 2027. 

Please note: writers may apply to one scheme only.

Remember!

Our short story, poetry, flash fiction, novel & memoir competitions are open to international applicants.

These bursaries have been generously donated by writers entering our competition who want to support other writers with their work. All applications are considered in the strictest confidence. We don’t require proof of income, your word is good enough.

Good luck!