WRITEABILITY® Fellows Program 2027–2028: Fully Funded Writing Fellowship for African American, African, Black and Native American Writers

Overview

The WRITEABILITY Fellows Program 2027–2028 is a one-year initiative designed to support developing writers in strengthening their craft, establishing sustainable writing habits, and building community. Sponsored by a generous donor, the program provides selected participants with an in-person writing residency, year-long online programming, mentorship opportunities, and public readings. Up to five writers will be selected for the inaugural 2027–2028 fellowship cohort.

Who can apply

The program is aimed at developing writers seeking dedicated writing time, professional guidance, creative resources, and a supportive community. It is particularly relevant to writers who have not previously attended a writing residency, published a book, or earned a graduate-level degree in creative writing, placing emphasis instead on dedication to writing, curiosity about the creative process, and a willingness to participate actively in a learning community.

What you get

Selected fellows receive up to $1,500 toward residency participation, which covers registration costs, meals, housing, and program experiences, alongside approximately $600 in optional travel reimbursement. In addition, participants receive an annual membership in the WRITEABILITY Sustaining Circle valued at $804, optional one-to-one mentorship, access to year-long online programming, and opportunities to share work through public readings.

Key dates

Applications open on October 1, 2026, and close on October 30, 2026, or when 30 applications have been received, whichever comes first. The program commences on May 3, 2027, with the in-person residency taking place from May 3 to May 9, 2027, at the Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. The fellowship runs for one year through the 2027–2028 programming period.