SCBWI Jane Yolen Mid-list Author Grant

SCBWI Launches Mid-List Author Grant 

in Honor of Jane Yolen

This grant is funded by the Jane Yolen Mid-List Grant Fund. Donate to the fund here.

Jane Yolen was the author of over 400 books for children and adults, including OWL MOON, THE DEVIL’S ARITHMETIC, the HOW DO DINOSAURS series, and was the winner of two Nebulas, two Christopher Medals, a National Book Award, and many other awards. She was foundational to the establishment of SCBWI as the first ever Regional Advisor (founder of the New England chapter), and serving on the SCBWI Advisory Council for many years.

Given in honor of the renowned children’s book author Jane Yolen, the Jane Yolen Mid-List Grant will be awarded to a mid-career traditionally published author. The winner will receive $1500, plus free tuition to the In-Person New York Winter Conference, where they will be presented with their award by Yolen’s daughter, Heidi Stemple.

Eligibility:
SCBWI Premium members only. Applicant must have published at least one PAL (traditionally published) book. Additional self-published works are acceptable.

Submissions open September 1 through September 31, 2026. Winner will be announced in November.

For guidelines and submission requirements, click HERE.

You can find the submission portal for the Jane Yolen Mid-List Grant on your SCBWI ‘Member Home’, under the ‘MY AWARDS’ tab.

Award includes: 

- $1500 cash prize
- Free tuition to the In-Person New York Winter Conference (not including travel fare and hotel accommodation)
- Publicity through SCBWI website, newsletter, and social media channels