WOW! Creative Nonfiction Essay Contest

Deadline: January 31, 2026

WOW! Women on Writing is seeking creative nonfiction on any topic (1000 words or less) and in any style–from personal essay and memoir to lyric essay and hermit crab, and more! The mission of this contest is to reward bravery in real-life storytelling and create an understanding of our world through thoughtful, engaging narratives.

Electronic submissions via e-mail only; reprints/previously published are okay; simultaneous submissions are okay; multiple submissions are okay. Open internationally.

Limit: 300 entries.

Prizes (20 winners!):
1st Place: $500, publication, interview, and gift code good for one item from CreateWriteNow’s Store
2nd Place: $300, publication, interview, and gift code good for one item from CreateWriteNow’s Store
3rd Place: $200, publication, interview, and gift code good for one item from CreateWriteNow’s Store
7 Runners Up receive $25 Amazon Gift Cards, publication, interview, and gift code good for one item from CreateWriteNow’s Store
10 Honorable mentions receive a gift code good for one item from CreateWriteNow’s Store

Entry: $12 entry fee; critique option for an additional $13

How to enter, visit: https://www.wow-womenonwriting.com/contest.php#EssayContest

WOW! Winter 2026 Flash Fiction Contest

Deadline: February 28, 2026

Guest Judge: Literary Agent Emily Williamson

WOW! Women on Writing is seeking flash fiction of any genre between 250 – 750 words. The mission of this contest is to inspire creativity, great writing, and provide well-rewarded recognition to contestants.

Electronic submissions via e-mail only; reprints/previously published are okay; simultaneous submissions are okay; multiple submissions are okay. Open internationally.

$1,350 in cash prizes. Limit: 300 entries.

Prizes (20 winners!):
1st Place: $400, publication, interview, and $25 Amazon Gift Certificate
2nd Place: $300, publication, interview, and $25 Amazon Gift Certificate
3rd Place: $200, publication, interview and $25 Amazon Gift Certificate
7 Runners Up receive $25 Amazon Gift Cards, publication and interview
10 Honorable mentions receive $20 Amazon Gift Card
Top 10 stories are published in the WOW! Women On Writing e-zine, and contestants are interviewed on WOW’s blog, The Muffin.

Entry: $10 entry fee; critique option for an additional $10

How to enter, visit: https://www.wow-womenonwriting.com/contest.php

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