Queer Sci-fi Flash Fiction Contest/ How to Apply (Prize: $225)

Annually, Queer Sci-fi holds a flash fiction contest to create an amazing new anthology of queer speculative fiction stories.

The organizers behind Queer Sci-fi asks authors to do the nearly-impossible – to submit a sci fi, fantasy, paranormal or horror LGBTIQA story that has no more than 300 words.

Eligibility for Queer Sci-fi Flash Fiction Contest

• Anyone from anywhere is welcome to submit. The more the cultural and racial diversity, the more welcome. 
• Submission must be made before May 1st, 2023 to be considered. 
• Works from across the queer spectrum would be acceptable.
• Entries from lesbian, trans, bi, intersex and ace protagonists, as well as gay men.
• No entry fee. 

Submission Guidelines 

• The submission theme is Rise : With the world in turmoil, we all need a little hope, so this year we chose a word rife in meanings and ripe for inspiration. Tell them about rise in all its forms and the difference it can make on your characters, the culture, and the world, for better or worse.
• They also welcome diversity in ability (physical and mental) and in race.
• They get an incredible number of  gay sci fi short stories every year, so if you try your hand at fantasy, paranormal or horror, especially with the other letters of the queer alphabet, you’ll have a better chance of standing out.
• Try for something unique – take the road less traveled.
• They welcome both strictly genre stories and genre stories with romance in the mix.
• Submit Your Story using the application form.
• The Judging Criteria: They have four main criteria by which each work will be judged: Is there at least one queer character and/or obvious queer content? How well does the work incorporate speculative fiction (sci fi, fantasy, paranormal or horror) tropes and concepts? Is the work well-crafted, with a plot, a beginning, a middle, and an end? How well/cleverly is the theme used in the work?

Prize

• The top three winners will receive cash prizes of $100, $75, and $50 respectively; everyone who is chosen for publication will receive a free copy of the eBook. No royalties will be paid.