PEN Canada is now accepting English-language submissions for the 2026 RBC PEN Canada New Voices Award.
The annual award supports and celebrates emerging talent in Canadian literature. The contest is open to all genres of writing. There is no fee to submit. Unpublished writers are encouraged to submit short stories, creative nonfiction, scripts, journalism, and poetry collections. The shortlisted submissions will be judged by a distinguished jury of Canadian writers.
The winning entry will receive a $3,000 CAD cash prize and mentorship with a Canadian author.
The deadline for entries is Thursday May 7, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. EST.
Click here to read eligibility requirements and how to apply.Â