Our Response to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) Outbreak

As a precaution to help limit the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) and care for our community, Just Buffalo Literary Center has postponed a number of events, and we will follow the guidance of Buffalo Public Schools in terms of Just Buffalo Writing Center programming.

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Poetry Fellowship

Poetry Fellowship - Just Buffalo Writing Center

Each year, Just Buffalo Literary Center invites adult poets of all ages and stages of their career to apply for its Poetry Fellowship.

Give yourself the space to write and the time to focus.
Live in one of the nation’s most vibrant literary cities.
Read at an event curated by Just Buffalo Literary Center.

Eligibility Requirements

  • Applicants must be 21 years or older
  • A completed application must be received by 11:59 p.m. on the deadline (incomplete applications will NOT be considered)
  • Past or present employees of Just Buffalo Literary Center are NOT eligible to apply

The Latest JBLC Poetry Fellowship News

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can apply?

The purpose of this fellowship is to enable recipients to set aside time for writing, travel, and general career advancement. We invite applications from adult poets of all ages and stages of their career.

When and where can I apply?

The 2025 application period opens January 1, 2025, with a submission deadline of February 28, 2025 @ 11:59 p.m.. Applications are accepted via Submittable.

What languages can I use on my application?

Just Buffalo Literary Center is committed to equal opportunity and nondiscrimination. At this time, we can only accept applications in English.

How is the winning Fellow selected?

The writing sample is the most important component of the application. Writing samples will be considered based on artistic merit. Writing samples will be blind-reviewed and scored by three first readers; in a second round, the 25 highest-scored applications will be reviewed by Just Buffalo’s artistic staff; in a third round, 10 semi-finalists will be chosen for blind review by the final judge, who will choose the winning Fellow and up to 5 finalists for honorable mention.

When will the winner of the fellowship be announced?

Applications will be reviewed in March and early April, with the Fellow & all applicants notified of status by the end of April, and a public announcement to follow.

Do you offer application fee waivers?

We recognize that entry fees can be a barrier to access for many. Applications fee waivers can be requested by filling out this form. If you have additional questions please email info@justbuffalo.org with the subject line “Poetry Fellowship Fee Waiver.”
(Capped at 20 submissions.)

Questions about the fellowship?

Email info@justbuffalo.org with “Fellowship Question” in your subject line, or call (716) 832-5400.