Apply to be a story maker
​for 2026

Story Makers are writers who can show a proven commitment to their craft through publications, workshops and courses, and those who have a minimum of a full-length first draft of a manuscript they wish to develop. If this sounds like you, this program may be the next step in your writing journey.

"Getting actionable feedback and perspective on my current WIP has helped me see through the weeds, and has re-invigorated my goal of publication."

​- C. Yablonski, 2025 Story Maker

MEET THE 2026 STORY COACHES

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The details

Program Time Frame/Length: 
January 2026 - June 2026 (6 months)

2026 ADP PROGRAM FEES
Application Fee(non-refundable): $100
Program Fee: $2700 (minus application fee upon acceptance)

Fee includes: One year AWCS membership, one-on-one story coaching, monthly featured workshops for your cohort and THREE regularly scheduled workshops/or class of your choosing that MUST BE USED during the program. 

Application Guidelines
General Guidelines & Instructions

• You MUST have a complete first draft of your project or be very close to completion by the start of the program.
• You MUST be able to meet the time commitment necessary for this program (20-25 hours per month).
• Review the available Story Coaches. We will make every effort to pair you with your preference, though it's not always possible. We will however, try to pair you with the best coach for your specific needs.

Application Packages MUST include:

1. A cover letter introducing yourself, your writing experience, goals for your work-in-progress, why you should be selected for this program and your top three choices for Story Coach.
2. A writing CV outlining your publication credits and any workshops, courses, residencies, retreats in which you’ve participated. If you don't have any publication credits, that's ok. We want to see a proven commitment to your craft and goals as a writer.
3. A ten-page writing sample (double-spaced) of the project you hope to develop during the program.
4. A one-page synopsis of your project with title, genre and current word count.
5. $100 non-refundable application fee.

ADP Story Makers and Coaches at the 2025 Finale held at Semantics Cafe

How to apply?
The application package MUST be in one document in .doc .docx or .pdf formats and document title MUST be [FirstNameLastName_ADP_StoryMaker2026]

Send completed applications as an attachment to [email protected] with 'ADP - Story Maker Application' in the subject line.
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Deadline for applications is 11:59PM MT, October 31, 2025

Successful applicants will be notified by the end of November 2025. 

PAY APPLICATION FEE

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The most valuable part of working with your Story Coach?

​"Having professional, insightful, outside feedback and perspective on my writing project. [Having] Someone to motivate and encourage me, as well as help me hone my craft."

- P. Orr (2025 Story Maker)