The SWG is now accepting applications for BIPOC (Black, Indigenous or Person of Colour) beginner or emerging writers for the 2026 BIPOC Mentorship Program. This program allows developing writers (apprentices) to work in a supportive environment under the guidance of professional writers (mentors).
The mentor provides the apprentice with one-on-one instruction in the craft of creative writing. The program is now open to BIPOC writers in all genres and will be tailored to the apprentice's individual needs. The two (2) participants, one (1) mentor and one (1) apprentice, will work together for approximately 20 hours a month in collaboration through email, phone, online meetings or in-person. The program will run from January 1 to April 30, 2026. An in-person Apprentice Reading will be co-hosted with the Mentorship Program in May 2026 as a conclusion to the program.
The focus of the program is craft development, manuscript preparation, and the business of writing and editing; apprentices should not expect to have a completed manuscript by the end of the program. At the end of the program, the apprentices will give a public reading of their work.
There is no cost to apply for this program, and there are no participation fees.
Deadlines: Apprentice applications must be emailed to swgip@skwriter.com by September 25, 2025 midnight
Full program details and application guidelines are here:
https://skwriter.com/programs-and-services/mentorship-programs/indigenous-mentorship-program
Call for BIPOC Apprentices
The SWG is seeking beginner or emerging BIPOC writers who wish to develop their skills in the craft of creative writing. Eligible applicants will meet the following criteria:
The results of this competition will be announced in November.
Funding by:
In partnership with: