Frequently Asked Questions for Festival Application & Submission

Submissions are accepted year-round. For further information regarding the submission process, please read through the questions and answers below. If you have any additional questions regarding eligibility or the submission process, please email us.

Can I present my work at the Stratford Writers Festival?

Participants at the Stratford Writers Festival and other literary events are invited based on the strength of their published work. Generally submissions are sent by publishers, but we do accept submissions directly from writers. In order to be considered for an invitation to appear at the Festivals or any year-round Festival events, publishers and authors are invited to submit a one page proposal along with any promotional materials or relevant press clippings.
To have work considered for Stratford Writers Festival events, please send at least one copy and accompanying materials to:

DigiWriting
356 Ontario St.
#299
Stratford, ON
N5A 7X6

What kind of authors are you looking for

Above all, we look for writing of exceptional quality, but we are also committed to representing a broad range of genres, styles and places of origin.

Is there a submission deadline?

There is not a firm deadline for submissions but invitations and scheduling are usually finalized months prior to the event. Because there are so many submissions, the earlier you can get work to us, the more likely we will be able to seriously consider it.

Are Advance Reading Copies or galleys acceptable submissions?

While we prefer print copies, early reading copies and uncorrected proofs in electronic format (PDF or ePUB) for future releases are acceptable. Manuscripts, however, are not acceptable. We are most interested in books that will be available in time for the start of the festival. Please note that due to the volume of submissions, we cannot return material submitted, but books are donated to the Stratford Free Little Library project and relevant charities.

Are self-published books eligible for submissions?

Yes, we do accept self-published books. Please follow the same submission instructions already posted.

When do I know if I’ve been accepted into the Stratford Writers Festival?

Please note that while we receive many submissions and recommendations from enthusiasts, presentation slots in the schedule are limited. We are very grateful for this interest in our festival and do take time to consider proposals, but due to the high volume of submissions, we are unable to respond to every recommendation and only writers invited to participate will receive a response.