The New Chapter Writing Contest open call flyer.

The New Chapter Writing Contest by Simon & Schuster (£100,000)

May 9, 2025 Chinaza James-Ibe

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Entries must be unpublished, original works.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:

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.