conversation-prize-for-writers-2026-(1,000-prize)
Conversation Prize for Writers 2026 (£1,000 prize)

Deadline: July 5, 2026

Applications are open for the Conversation Prize for Writers 2026. This annual competition invites academics and researchers to bring their work to life for a wider audience. It’s an opportunity to turn your research, expertise and insights into a compelling longform story that also has the potential to be developed into a bestselling nonfiction book. Whether you’re exploring new findings, re-examining established ideas, or sharing unique perspectives from your field, the prize celebrates clear, engaging writing that connects specialist knowledge with the world beyond academia.

Benefits

  • In addition to a £1,000 prize for the winning article and online publication with The Conversation Insights, Faber and The Curtis Brown Group will again be offering mentorship to develop your book from a book editor and a literary agent.

Eligibility

  • Open to academics and researchers;
  • Applicants should be based in the United Kingdom.

Application

To enter, email your 2,000-word article, plus the following information, to [email protected]:

  • Name
  • Institution
  • Country
  • Email
  • Telephone no.
  • Your book idea [max 350 words]. Provide a brief summary of a trade nonfiction book idea based on your article. Tell them why this topic deserves a deeper dive and why it would appeal to an audience of non-academic readers.
  • About you [max 100 words]: Tell them a little about you – your current role, your area of expertise and any relevant research to your book idea. Why would you be the right author for this book?

For more information, visit Conversation Prize for Writers.