Deadline: 31-Jul-2026
The Young and Talented Creative Writing Awards is a regional funding and mentorship programme supporting aspiring young writers in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. It aims to develop creative writing talent by combining financial support with professional mentoring from experienced writers.
The initiative helps young people build skills and progress toward careers in writing, journalism, poetry, screenwriting, and other literary fields.
Programme Overview
The programme supports emerging writers through:
- One-to-one mentoring with professional writers
- Financial grants to support creative development
- Skill-building opportunities in writing and storytelling
- Access to training, workshops, and industry guidance
- Support for career development in creative industries
It is designed to reduce barriers for young people entering the literary and creative sectors.
Key Focus Areas
The initiative focuses on developing talent in:
- Creative writing and storytelling
- Poetry and literary writing
- Journalism and media writing
- Screenwriting and script development
- Career progression in the literary arts
- Training and professional development opportunities
- Support for economically disadvantaged young people
Funding Support
Participants may receive:
- Grants of up to £1,000
- Mentorship from professional writers and industry practitioners
Eligible expenses include:
- Writing workshops and training fees
- Travel and accommodation costs related to creative development
- IT equipment such as laptops or writing tools
- Creative development resources and materials
- Activity-related costs supporting writing projects
- Other expenses directly linked to creative progression
Funding cannot be used for:
- Costs already incurred before approval
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Be aged 16 to 23 years
- Be residents of Cornwall or the Isles of Scilly
- Demonstrate creative writing talent and potential
Priority is given to:
- Applicants from economically disadvantaged backgrounds
- Young writers with limited access to creative opportunities
Ineligible applicants include:
- Individuals outside the eligible age range
- Applicants not residing in Cornwall or the Isles of Scilly
- Non-residents or external organisations
Programme Objectives
The programme aims to:
- Support emerging creative writing talent
- Improve access to professional literary careers
- Provide mentorship from industry professionals
- Reduce financial and social barriers to creative development
- Encourage participation from underrepresented groups
- Strengthen the regional creative arts sector
Why the Programme Matters
- Helps young writers develop professional-level skills
- Provides financial support for creative learning opportunities
- Builds pathways into literary and media careers
- Encourages inclusion in the creative arts sector
- Supports talent development in rural and regional communities
- Reduces inequality in access to creative training
Conclusion
The Young and Talented Creative Writing Awards programme provides essential funding and mentorship to emerging writers in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. By combining financial assistance with professional guidance, it helps young people develop their creative skills, overcome economic barriers, and pursue careers in writing and the wider literary industry.
For more information, visit Cornwall Community Foundation.