The American publishing house Graywolf Press are currently accepting submissions for their annual Nonfiction prize.

The prize, which was launched in 2005, offers a $20,000 advance payment plus publication for an innovative literary nonfiction project by an emerging writer. The winning author will also receive a $2,000 stipend to support the completion of their project.

The prize is typically awarded to a manuscript in progress. Entrants are required to send a long sample from their manuscript, as well as a description of the work. Graywolf Press will work closely with the winner, providing editorial guidance towards finishing the manuscript. The prize will be judged by Graywolf Press’ editors.

In a press statement, the judges noted that they are looking for innovative writing:

“The Graywolf Press Nonfiction Prize emphasizes innovation in form and content, and we want to see projects that test the boundaries of literary nonfiction. We are less interested in straightforward memoirs, and we turn down a large number of them every year. The Graywolf editors are particularly interested in books that explore new approaches to cultural and literary criticism, as well as writing on craft. Before submitting your manuscript for the prize, please look at the books previously published as winners of the prize for examples of the type of work that we are seeking.”

Submissions will be accepted via Submittable

Deadline: February 28, 2022.

Go here for more information, guidelines, and resources for fine tuning your work.