The New Chapter Writing Contest by Simon & Schuster (£100,000)
Simon & Schuster UK has launched an exciting new initiative to uplift underrepresented voices in fiction publishing. The New Chapter Writing Contest offers a life-changing opportunity for writers of colour who are unagented and not currently under contract. With a six-figure publishing deal on the line, this is a call for bold new voices ready to make their mark.
If you’re a commercial fiction writer from a minority ethnic background, this could be your moment.
Eligibility for the New Chapter Writing Contest
To be considered for the New Chapter Writing Contest, you must meet the following criteria:
- Be unagented and not under contract with any publisher.
- Be a resident of Great Britain (entries from Northern Ireland are ineligible).
- Be at least 18 years old by the date of entry.
- Identify as coming from a minority ethnic background.
- Have not previously had your work traditionally published by a third party (self-publishing is acceptable).
How to Submit
To enter, submit your materials via email to newchapter@simonandschuster.co.uk between May 1, 2025 and July 31, 2025.
Your email should include the following:
- Three sample chapters from your commercial fiction manuscript.
- A synopsis (an outline of the story, including the ending).
- A topline pitch (a brief, compelling summary of your novel).
- A short author biography.
- An idea for a second book (to be discussed if longlisted).
Formatting and additional rules:
- Submissions must be in English, typed and double-spaced in a legible font.
- Submit the file as a Word document or PDF.
- Clearly label each file with your full name and the title of your manuscript.
- One submission per person.
- Entries must be unpublished, original works.
- Do not submit work generated by ghostwriters or generative AI tools (e.g., ChatGPT)—doing so will lead to disqualification.
Requirements for the New Chapter Writing Contest
Applicants must:
- Present an original work of commercial fiction.
- Commit to developing their manuscript to a publishable standard with editorial guidance.
- Engage in publicity and marketing activities if selected.
- Provide confirmation of eligibility upon request.
Need help preparing your entry? These resources may be useful:
- Creative Writing Course Lessons
- 6 Easy Ways to Keep Readers Engaged
- 5 Ways to Boost Productivity as a Writer
Benefits of Entering the New Chapter Writing Contest
The winner of the New Chapter Writing Contest will receive:
- A £100,000 advance for a two-book publishing deal with Simon & Schuster UK.
- Editorial and marketing support from one of the world’s leading publishers.
- Mentorship and development opportunities with industry professionals.
- A platform to share your unique voice with a global readership.
Deadlines for the New Chapter Writing Contest
- Submissions Open: May 1, 2025 (09:00 BST)
- Submissions Close: July 31, 2025 (17:00 BST)
- Longlist Announcement: Autumn 2025 (date TBA)
- Winner Announced: Early 2026
