Screenwriting competitions are a fantastic way to get your script noticed, receive valuable feedback, and even connect with industry professionals. While many writers are familiar with big names like the Nicholl Fellowships or Austin Film Festival, there’s a wealth of lesser-known contests that can provide similar opportunities. Here’s a list of ten hidden gems worth considering—and how they can help you jumpstart your screenwriting career.
1. PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
- Why It’s Valuable:
- Recognized as one of the top screenwriting contests globally, it’s great for writers seeking exposure and feedback.
- Offers over $50,000 in prizes across multiple categories, including TV, features, and shorts.
- Perks:
- Winners often secure management or representation.
- Past winners have gone on to sell scripts to major studios.
- Deadline: Spring annually
- Website: PAGE Awards
2. BlueCat Screenplay Competition
- Why It’s Valuable:
- Known for its detailed feedback—every submission receives written notes.
- Offers cash prizes for feature, short, and TV pilot scripts.
- Perks:
- Focuses on helping writers improve their craft with actionable feedback.
- Deadline: Winter annually
- Website: BlueCat Screenplay Competition
3. Screencraft Fellowship
- Why It’s Valuable:
- Provides winners with direct access to industry mentors and a career development program.
- Perks:
- The mentorship program includes meetings with top agents, managers, and producers.
- No one-and-done deal—this is focused on long-term career development.
- Deadline: Varies
- Website: Screencraft Fellowship
4. WeScreenplay Diverse Voices
- Why It’s Valuable:
- Aimed at underrepresented voices, this contest celebrates diversity in storytelling.
- Perks:
- Winners receive cash prizes, mentorship, and access to industry professionals.
- Includes a weekend-long retreat to help writers build connections.
- Deadline: Multiple rounds throughout the year
- Website: WeScreenplay Diverse Voices
5. Big Break Screenwriting Contest
- Why It’s Valuable:
- Run by Final Draft, the competition focuses on launching screenwriting careers.
- Perks:
- Winners have their scripts sent to top industry executives.
- Offers category-specific prizes for different genres.
- Deadline: Fall annually
- Website: Big Break Contest
6. CineStory Fellowship
- Why It’s Valuable:
- Combines a competition with a mentorship retreat, providing hands-on guidance.
- Perks:
- Top scripts are invited to the CineStory Retreat, where writers work closely with mentors.
- Focused on building relationships with industry veterans.
- Deadline: Spring annually
- Website: CineStory Fellowship
7. Film Independent Screenwriting Lab
- Why It’s Valuable:
- Not just a competition, but a development lab that helps writers refine their scripts and pitch ideas.
- Perks:
- Participants gain access to Film Independent’s network of producers and directors.
- Focuses on preparing writers for the realities of the industry.
- Deadline: Spring annually
- Website: Film Independent
8. Shore Scripts
- Why It’s Valuable:
- Known for connecting writers with the European film industry, in addition to Hollywood.
- Perks:
- Winners have their work sent to top producers and directors.
- Includes funding opportunities for short films.
- Deadline: Summer annually
- Website: Shore Scripts
9. Scriptapalooza
- Why It’s Valuable:
- A long-running competition that focuses on getting scripts into the right hands.
- Perks:
- Every script is read by industry professionals, not interns.
- Winners have landed representation and sold scripts to major studios.
- Deadline: Spring annually
- Website: Scriptapalooza
10. ISA Fast Track Fellowship
- Why It’s Valuable:
- Provides personalized mentorship and industry introductions over an 8-week program.
- Perks:
- Winners meet directly with top agents, managers, and producers.
- Focused on advancing your career, not just celebrating one script.
- Deadline: Varies
- Website: ISA Fast Track Fellowship
FAQs About Screenwriting Competitions
Are lesser-known competitions worth the investment?
Absolutely. While they might not carry the prestige of Nicholl, these contests often provide personalized feedback, mentorship opportunities, and access to industry professionals.
How do I choose the right competition?
Focus on contests that align with your goals. For example:
- Looking for feedback? Try BlueCat.
- Want mentorship? Opt for CineStory or Screencraft Fellowship.
- Seeking industry exposure? PAGE and Shore Scripts are excellent choices.
What’s the typical cost to enter?
Entry fees range from $50 to $100. Some contests offer early-bird discounts or fee waivers for underrepresented writers.
Resources for Screenwriters
- Stage 32: A community for networking and sharing contest news.
- The Black List: Submit your scripts for industry reviews.
- Coverfly: A platform to discover and track screenwriting competitions.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Contest
Screenwriting competitions can be a game-changer for your career, but it’s crucial to choose wisely. Look for contests that align with your career goals, whether it’s gaining feedback, finding representation, or getting industry exposure. And remember, winning isn’t everything—just placing in or entering a reputable contest can build your confidence and strengthen your portfolio.
