The Older Writers Grant | How to Apply ($1000)
The Older Writers Grant from the Speculative Literature Foundation (SLF) is now open for applications. With a $1,000 cash award, this grant supports writers aged 50 and above who are just beginning their careers in speculative fiction. Whether you write fantasy, science fiction, horror, or magical realism, this grant is designed to give your creative journey a meaningful boost.
Eligibility for the Older Writers Grant
To apply for the grant, applicants must:
- Be at least 50 years old by the time of application
- Be early in their writing careers (defined as having earned less than $1,000 total from their speculative fiction writing)
- Submit original work that fits within the speculative fiction umbrella
Writers from anywhere in the world are welcome to apply.
Requirements for the Older Writers Grant
Applicants for the grant must submit the following:
- A cover letter (500–1,000 words) including:
- An autobiographical statement
- Date of birth
- A bibliography (if applicable)
- A writing sample:
- Up to 5,000 words of speculative fiction or creative nonfiction
- Up to 10 pages of poetry or drama
- If submitting an excerpt from a longer work, include a one-page synopsis
All submissions must fall within speculative literature, which includes science fiction, fantasy, horror, ghost stories, slipstream, magical realism, and more. Learn more about what qualifies as speculative fiction.
Applications must be submitted between May 1 and May 31, 2025 via the official application form.
Benefits
The Older Writers Grant offers:
- A $1,000 USD award with no restrictions on how it’s used—writers may apply it toward time, tools, workshops, or research
- Visibility via publication of an excerpt and author bio on the SLF website
- A vote of confidence from a respected literary nonprofit committed to diverse voices in speculative fiction
This grant, like all SLF programs, aims to remove barriers and offer meaningful support to underrepresented and emerging talent in the literary world.
Deadline
The application period for the Older Writers Grant is open from May 1 to May 31, 2025.
Winners will be announced in July 2025.
Need help getting started?
If you require accessibility accommodations, email grants@speculativeliterature.org for alternative submission options.
