Sillerman First Book Prize for African Poets 2027

About

The Sillerman First Book Prize for African Poets recognises an African poet who has not yet published a full-length poetry collection. What you get: USD 1,000 and publication of the manuscript by the University of Nebraska Press in the African Poetry Book Series. For translated work, part of the prize goes to the translator. Who can apply: poets born in Africa, nationals or residents of an African country, or with African parents, writing in English (or translated into English), with no published book-length collection. No entry fee. How to apply: submit your manuscript electronically between 15 September and 1 December 2026, as described on the APBF page.

Eligibility — verbatim from the source

African by birth, nationality, residence or parentage; no published full-length poetry collection; English or translated into English.

Requirements

What you get

• USD 1,000
• Book publication by University of Nebraska Press

Important dates

• Deadline: Dec 1, 2026

Location

Remote