Deadline: July 22, 2025
Are you a passionate writer with a flair for science-inspired storytelling? The MARION Science + Storytelling Prize 2025 is now open for submissions! This unique writing competition invites entries that blend creativity and science, offering substantial cash prizes and recognition for talented writers based in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) or those with a strong ACT arts practice.
Whether you’re an essayist, poet, short story writer, or an experimental author, this is your chance to decode nature’s secrets and win.
About the MARION Science + Storytelling Prize 2025
The MARION Science + Storytelling Prize 2025 is designed to spotlight original creative writing that brings scientific concepts to life. This year’s theme is:
“Decoding the Universe – Exploring the unknown with nature’s hidden language.”
This can include DNA sequences, bird calls, fungal networks, constellations, artificial intelligence, or any other natural “code” that reveals how our world works. Writers are encouraged to explore the invisible patterns, rhythms, and languages within nature and technology.
Who Can Enter?
The competition is open to:
- Writers based in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT)
- Writers with a strong ACT arts practice (even if based elsewhere)
Entrants will compete in one of three age-based categories:
| Age Group | Winner Prize | Runner-Up Prize |
|---|---|---|
| Youth (Under 18) | AUD $250 | AUD $150 |
| Open (18–64) | AUD $400 | AUD $200 |
| Seniors (65+) | AUD $400 | AUD $200 |
Judges may also give special commendations for standout entries.
Submission Guidelines
All submissions must adhere to the following:
- Original work written within the last 12 months
- Not previously published or currently under consideration elsewhere
- Submitted in English
- Anonymised (no names or identifying details in the document)
- File formats accepted: .doc, .docx, or PDF
- Poetry: Maximum of 40 lines
- Stories, essays, or hybrid writing: Up to 1,000 words
- Under-18 entrants require parental permission (via form)
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: July 22, 2025
Don’t miss the chance to submit your work before this deadline.
📎 How to Apply
Ready to enter? Follow these steps:
🔗 Click here to apply for the MARION Science + Storytelling Prize 2025
🔗 Read more about the programme
Make sure to review your work thoroughly before uploading and complete all required fields in the submission form.
Why You Should Enter
This prize is more than just a contest—it’s a platform to amplify voices that can creatively translate the language of science into compelling narratives. If you’ve ever been fascinated by the secret codes of nature, this is the perfect opportunity to express that fascination through literature.
Final Tip
Submissions are competitive and judged on originality, interpretation of the theme, and writing quality. A compelling title, a powerful opening, and a creative twist on scientific themes can set your work apart.
If you need help preparing your entry—whether drafting, refining, or reviewing—contact grantsdatabase.org for proposal drafting, refining and review.
Let your creativity and curiosity lead the way. Submit your entry to the MARION Science + Storytelling Prize 2025 today!
