The Ralph Angel Poetry Prize | How to Apply ($250)
Win $250 and a Letterpress Broadside
Each year, Foundlings Press honors the legacy of acclaimed poet Ralph Angel by inviting poets from around the world to submit their finest unpublished work to The Ralph Angel Poetry Prize. Now in its fifth year, the prize continues to elevate emerging voices with a unique opportunity to see their work published in a handcrafted, limited-edition broadside. Acclaimed poet Gillian Conoley will judge this year’s competition, adding further prestige to the prize.
Eligibility for the Ralph Angel Poetry Prize
The Ralph Angel Poetry Prize is open to all writers. There are no restrictions on nationality, age, or experience level. Whether you’re a seasoned poet or a new voice finding your footing in the literary world, this contest offers an equal platform for all. The only requirement: submit a single, previously unpublished poem.
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Requirements for Submitting to the Ralph Angel Poetry Prize
To enter, poets must follow these submission guidelines:
- Submit only one poem per entrant
- Email your submission as a PDF attachment to: publisher@foundlingspress.com
- The entry must be previously unpublished
- Submissions are accepted between April 1 at 11:59pm ET and May 1 at 11:59pm ET
- Late entries will not be considered
Looking to earn from your creative work? Here’s how one writer earned their first $1200 from poetry and publishing.
Benefits of Winning the Ralph Angel Poetry Prize
The winner of the Ralph Angel Poetry Prize will receive:
- A $250 cash award
- A limited-edition letterpress broadside of the winning poem, designed by Foundlings Press’s book artist in residence, Talia Ryan
- Exclusive availability of the broadside for purchase through FoundlingsPress.com
Past winners include Emily Schulten (2024), Emma Aylor (2023), Emma Fuchs (2022), and Margarita Serafimova (2021)—each selected by a distinguished guest judge. This year, Gillian Conoley brings her expansive poetic insight and artistic experience to the judging process.
Deadline.
Mark your calendar: Entries open April 1 at 11:59pm ET and close May 1 at 11:59pm ET. Submit early to ensure your work is considered.
This contest is not only an opportunity for publication and recognition but also a tribute to a poet who inspired generations. Learn more about Ralph Angel’s life and poetry at ralphangel.com, and consider diving into this recommended short story list for more literary gems while you wait for results.
For updates and full details, visit Foundlings Press.
