Scribbles Radar: The Writer’s News Source for Contests, Publication Opportunities and Updates on Inklings Publishing.
- K.M. Sokulski
- Feb 23
- 3 min read
We've reached the last week of February and are marching our way into next month! While this radar has more event reminders than new listings, we have two unique opportunities to finish off February with a bang. A film festival, a children's poetry competition and last minute deadlines are just what we'll need to shake off the last of the winter season!
Event Type: Script Competition
Hosted By: Austin Film Festival
Deadline: March 27th, 2026
Submissions: Eventbrite
AFF’s Script Competitions identify emerging, new writers of unparalleled talent each year. With a reputation as the premiere script competition in the world, AFF is trusted by studios, agents, and executives all across the industry to identify the storytellers of tomorrow. With all script submissions evaluated blindly and carefully by our panel of industry judges, AFF winners annually reflect a vast diversity of talent and tend to combat the industry’s trends of exclusivity. To put it simply, AFF values a great story above all else. As a bonus, AFF winners receive much more than our coveted bronze typewriter award, as our Festival team works hard to curate opportunities and experiences to catapult writers into life-changing careers.
Event Type: PoetryCompetition
Hosted By: The Caterpillar Magazine
Deadline: March 31st, 2026
Submissions: Entry Form
Have you written a poem you think would appeal to children? Then why not enter The Caterpillar Poetry Prize 2026! 'Children’s poetry only rarely gets the attention it deserves, so it’s terrific that this high-profile prize shines a light once a year on this small but splendid corner of literary culture. And the fact this is a prize for single poems, judged anonymously, also means the field is wide open! Sometimes someone starry wins, sometimes the prizes go to very new writers. It’s worth entering at any stage of a person’s writing life.' Kate Wakeling.
--Event Reminders--
Event Type: Writing Workshop
Hosted By: Houston Writers Guild
Date: February 25th, 2026 at 7:00 pm (CST)
Tickets: Eventbrite
Join us online for a casual and insightful webinar with Stacey Eskelin, where Romance writers from all backgrounds can come together to learn, share, and grow. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, this is the perfect chance to pick up new tips and connect with fellow word lovers. Don’t miss this fun and engaging event hosted by the Houston Writers Guild!
Event Type: Fiction and Short Story Contest
Deadline: February 28th, 2026
Entry Fee: Free
Website: Gotham Writers
This contest invites participants to write a story about a long winter's night, limited to 50 words or less. Entries can be true or fictional.
Event Type: Short Story Competition
Deadline: April 30th, 2026
Entry Fee: $75
Website: Clive Cussler Collector's Society
Two AWC Finalist Awards: $500 | The winner receives a 'Grandmaster Winner' trophy. Runners-up receive trophies and finalists receive a video book trailer and interview.
Important note on library events and workshops! Author appearances and writing classes have become increasingly popular to host at the library. Be sure to check your local library's calendar for more events related to writing from their website. Know of any opportunities I missed? Did you submit to any of the above listings? Comment below! Depending on the deadline of the event, we may feature it on our next Inklings Scribbles Radar.
Scribble on, Inklingers!
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