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perugiapress.org
Independent publishing5 open opportunities listed

About the press

Perugia Press is an independent, nonprofit publisher based in Florence, Massachusetts, dedicated to promoting women's poetry. Founded in 1997 by Susan Kan, the press emerged from a commitment to address the gender disparity in literary publishing by providing a dedicated platform for women poets. Its core mission is to publish one full-length poetry collection annually through the Perugia Press Prize, a contest open to women writers at all stages of their careers. The press emphasizes accessibility, inclusivity, and the transformative power of poetry, seeking manuscripts that demonstrate artistic excellence, emotional depth, and a distinctive voice. Over its history, Perugia Press has published over twenty collections, many of which have received critical acclaim and contributed to the broader literary landscape.

Publishing focus

Founded in 1997, Perugia Press is a nonprofit feminist press that publishes one beautifully designed book a year: the winner of the Perugia Press Prize, our annual national contest for first or second books of poetry by women. It supports and celebrates women poets, inclusive of gender-expansive identities, in print and beyond. Perugia Press seeks to highlight underrepresented voices and welcomes diversity of expression in content, form, and language.

PoetryPoetry Collections

Selected authors
Lisa Allen Ortiz, Jenifer Browne Lawrence, Corrie Williamson, Amanda Auchter, Gail Martin, Ida Stewart, Jennifer K. Sweeney, Melody S. Gee, Diane Gilliam Fisher, Frannie Lindsay

Calls & opportunities

5 listed
OpenDeadline · 2026-11-16

2027 Perugia Press Prize

OpenDeadline · 2026-11-16

2027 Perugia Press Prize

Manuscript submissions

Reading periodAug 1 to Nov 15
Reading feeYes
Response time3 to 6 months
Simultaneous submissionsYes
Unsolicited submissionsYes

Poets should submit manuscripts of 48–80 pages during the annual reading period, typically open from August 1 to November 15. The press values cohesive collections that exhibit a clear artistic vision, strong imagery, and authentic voice. While there is no strict thematic requirement, manuscripts that resonate with the press's mission of amplifying women's perspectives are encouraged. Include a cover letter with contact information and a brief bio, but avoid excessive self-promotion. Simultaneous submissions are accepted, but notify promptly if the manuscript is accepted elsewhere. Reading fees are charged to support the press's operations, and fee waivers are available for those facing financial hardship. Carefully proofread your manuscript and adhere to formatting guidelines to ensure a professional presentation.

We accept online submissions only, through Submittable. Please follow our submission guidelines. We are always open to reading resubmitted manuscripts; many of our authors submitted to our contest in years prior to winning the Perugia Press Prize. In an effort to remove barriers and make submissions more accessible for all, Perugia Press asks poets to choose the submission rate that works for them: $30 (with free book), $15 (reduced rate), or fee-free (for poets who are Black, Indigenous, and women of color). Contact our director at the email below with any and all questions.

Read official guidelines