This program is made possible with the generous support of Scott Saxberg, Cache Island Resources
Become the Next Writer in Residence at AWCS
Since 1996, the Alexandra Writers' Centre Society (AWCS) has hosted a Writer in Residence annually to support emerging writers in our community. This program offers a unique opportunity to mentor up-and-coming writers, providing guidance, encouragement, and expertise. If you're passionate about nurturing literary talent while advancing your own creative work, this could be your chance to join an inspiring legacy.
Who should apply?
We welcome applications from Canadian writers of all genres who meet the following criteria:
This program allows the Writer-in-Residence to shape their residency based on their expertise and vision, with a view of fostering creativity, connection, and mentorship. The structure of program will be determined collaboratively, The AWCS team will work with the successful candidate to finalize a plan that aligns with the author’s and the community’s needs.
As Writer in Residence, you will:
The residency includes:
How to apply
Applicants can pitch a personalized program proposal that highlights their approach to mentorship, community engagement, and collaboration. The proposal should include:
Plus, provide a one-page description of the writing project you plant to focus on during your residency. This could be new work or a work-in-progress (e.g. a novel, short story collection, poetry collection, hybrid forms, a play, etc.) Let us know what stage you're at, your goals for it during the residency, and how the residency might support your progress.
The deadline for applications is March 31, 2026, 11:59pm MT.
1. Complete the Online Application Form.
Fill out your basic details and residency preferences.
2. Upload Your Application Materials (as a Single PDF)
Applicants are required to submit a single PDF document that contains:
Key Dates
Why Join AWCS as Writer in Residence?
The Writer in Residence Program is more than just a residency—it’s an opportunity to inspire and be inspired. You’ll play a vital role in fostering creativity within the AWCS community, all while pursuing your own literary aspirations.
Ready to make an impact? Apply today and become a part of this prestigious program!
Contact [email protected] for information and inquiries.
We welcome applications from Canadian writers of all genres who meet the following criteria:
- has at least one full-length publication (e.g., short story collection, novel, poetry collection, hybrid forms, or a produced play)
- has a strong commitment to their craft
- has a collaborative and community-minded approach to mentorship
- has clear goals for what they hope to accomplish during the residency
- is available from September to November 2026, with flexibility for in-person, online, or hybrid delivery
This program allows the Writer-in-Residence to shape their residency based on their expertise and vision, with a view of fostering creativity, connection, and mentorship. The structure of program will be determined collaboratively, The AWCS team will work with the successful candidate to finalize a plan that aligns with the author’s and the community’s needs.
As Writer in Residence, you will:
- provide one-on-one manuscript consultations
- pitch and deliver workshops, events, or community activities that teach and inspire
- host drop-in events, public lectures, or other initiatives rooted in craft and connection
- work on a personal writing project of your choice throughout the residency
The residency includes:
- an honourarium of $7,500
- workspace access, such as meeting rooms, workshop venues, and a writing salon
- support on consultation scheduling, event coordination, printing, and promotions
How to apply
Applicants can pitch a personalized program proposal that highlights their approach to mentorship, community engagement, and collaboration. The proposal should include:
- types of manuscript consultations you plan to offer
- plan for providing guidance, as well as sharing insights and experiences
- workshops, events, and community activities that you would like to deliver
- how your residency will benefit the AWCS community and your personal artistic goals
Plus, provide a one-page description of the writing project you plant to focus on during your residency. This could be new work or a work-in-progress (e.g. a novel, short story collection, poetry collection, hybrid forms, a play, etc.) Let us know what stage you're at, your goals for it during the residency, and how the residency might support your progress.
The deadline for applications is March 31, 2026, 11:59pm MT.
1. Complete the Online Application Form.
Fill out your basic details and residency preferences.
2. Upload Your Application Materials (as a Single PDF)
Applicants are required to submit a single PDF document that contains:
- Cover Letter (max. 2 pages)
- Literary Resume
- Program Proposal
- Description of the type of Manuscript Consultations you will offer
- Workshops, events, or community activities
- Project Description (max. 1 page)
- Two Letters of Reference
Key Dates
- Application deadline: March 31, 2026
- Notification: Successful applicant will be notified on May 31, 2026
- Residency Term: September to November 2026
- Modality: in-person, online, or hybrid
Why Join AWCS as Writer in Residence?
The Writer in Residence Program is more than just a residency—it’s an opportunity to inspire and be inspired. You’ll play a vital role in fostering creativity within the AWCS community, all while pursuing your own literary aspirations.
Ready to make an impact? Apply today and become a part of this prestigious program!
Contact [email protected] for information and inquiries.
