2024 Grist Imagine 2200: Climate Fiction for Future Ancestors Short Story Contest

Grist is thrilled to announce the commencement of our fourth annual Imagine 2200: Climate Fiction for Future Ancestors short story contest, marking another year of inspiring writers worldwide to craft visions of a future where climate crisis solutions have transformed our world for the better. This contest is more than just a call for submissions; it’s a challenge to reenvision our future with optimism, innovation, and radical change. We invite you to join us in this creative endeavour by signing up for updates via our email list.

The essence of Imagine 2200 lies in celebrating narratives that paint a picture of the future where climate justice and equity have paved the way for a world of prosperity, resilience, and hope. We are on the lookout for stories that not only weave creative climate solutions into their fabric but also focus on the power of community and the spirit of resilience. Your stories should bring to life a future that feels tangible, with compelling plots, richly drawn characters, and vivid settings that make readers believe in the possibilities of tomorrow.

For those interested in participating, the rewards are substantial. The first-place storyteller will be honored with a $3,000 prize, followed by $2,000 for the second place, and $1,000 for the third place. Additionally, nine finalists will each receive $300. Beyond monetary awards, winners and finalists will have their work published in an immersive collection on Grist’s website, gaining widespread recognition. In collaboration with the Spring Creek Project at Oregon State University, we’re also offering an Environmental Writing Fellowship and Residency to the top writer, which includes a stay at the Cabin at Shotpouch Creek and a $3,000 honorarium, to further their climate narrative project.

The contest is open globally to writers aged 18 and above, with submissions ranging from 2,500 to 5,000 words in English. Stories must be original, unpublished, and not concurrently submitted elsewhere. Each participant may submit one story, which can be co-authored, provided all guidelines are followed. Importantly, we do not accept submissions created with the assistance of artificial intelligence. The deadline for submissions is June 24, 2024, and all applications must be made through Submittable on Grist’s website. Ensure your submission adheres to the specified formatting rules to qualify.

We are eager to see the worlds you envision, from the near future to the cusp of the 23rd century. Share with us your dreams of a better tomorrow through your narrative lens, and let’s collectively imagine a future where the climate crisis is not our legacy, but our triumph. For more information on how to submit your story and further details, please visit the Grist website.