Open Submissions

Ex Libris

A monthly e-newsletter that profiles recently released books by MWPA members.

Find Maine Writers is dedicated to profiling Maine’s many diverse and talented writers, publicizing their work and accomplishments, and connecting them with readers, editors, literary agents, publishers, and potential employers. Find Maine Writers is a members-only benefit of the Maine Writers & Publishers Alliance.

Crime Flash Contest

Crime Frash opens our annual Crime Wave Conference season. You’re invited to finish a compelling opening line—written exclusively for this contest by our guest Crime Master—with your own flash fiction of no more than 500 words. This year every entry to the contest must begin with the line: “I was on my hands and knees scrubbing up blood in the entry when the doorbell rang.”

All Submissions

Artword: Ekphrasis at the PMA

A collaboration between the MWPA and the Portland Museum of Art. Maine writers of all styles of poetry and levels of experience are invited to submit ekphrastic work inspired by art in the PMA.

Deep Water

A weekly poetry column for the Maine Sunday Telegram focusing on poems with deep water in them in their sudden change of temperature, in their ability to grab a reader’s attention, and in their marriage of form and content.

Maine Literary Awards

An annual, state-wide competition for published books, drama, short works, and student writing.

Maine Chapbook Series

An annual state-wide contest judged by a distinguished author from outside Maine. Winning works will be published by the MWPA.

Monson Residences

Monson Arts' residency program supports emerging and established artists and writers by providing them time and space to devote to their creative practices.

Poems From Here

Poems from Here, a weekly poetry program on Maine Public Radio with help from the Maine Writers & Publishers Alliance, returns! This program was first created in 2017 by former Maine State Poet Laureate Stuart Kestenbaum and ran through 2021, and it now continues with four new hosts, Maine State Poet Laureate Julia Bouwsma and fellow poets Samaa Abdurraqib, Mihku Paul, and Arisa White.

Call for Native Writing

A search for emerging Native writers. Up to 5 writers will win a chance to attend a conversation between Native authors Morgan Talty, Terese Marie Mailhot, and Joan Kane at the Maine Lit Fest. Lodging in Portland, Maine and a stipend for travel will be provided.