Barbara Neely Awards applications open now
There are two separate awards for unpublished and published Black writers honoring the legacy of Barbara Neely. Established in 2021, MWA’s Barbara Neely Awards honor the late Barbara Neely, a trailblazing Black crime novelist who was named an MWA Grand Master in late 2019 but who passed away before being publicly honored at the 2020 Edgar Awards banquet.
Each award carries a $2,000 cash prize to assist the winner with their writing craft and a one-year membership in MWA, which includes membership in the winner’s local chapter. The deadline for applications is Nov. 1, 2026.
Eligibility:
Applicant must identify as Black, be an American citizen, and be age 18 or older.
Applicant’s membership in MWA is not required.
Applicant for the published author award must have been published (traditionally or self-published) in the mystery/crime fiction genre but has NOT previously won a Barbara Neely Award.
Checklist of items to assemble for e-mail submission:
- Completed application form (available here) for the 2026 Barbara Neely Award.
- A short essay (300-500 words) explaining your interest in mystery writing and how the money will assist you; whether it’s a class, equipment, time away for writing, etc.
- A 5-page writing sample, in the mystery genre.
- A brief bio, no more than 200 words.
- A copy of your CV/resume highlighting your writing career.
- Electronic signature of applicant attesting to meeting all eligibility requirements.
Additional information, along with application forms, available here.
