Awards

The Seán Ó Faoláin International Short Story Competition

The Seán Ó Faoláin International Short Story Prize is awarded to the best single story entered in competition from anywhere in the world. The first prize is €2000, a featured reading at the Cork International Short Story Festival (with four-night hotel stay and full board) and publication in Southword. This occasion is an opportunity to hear the winning story as chosen by this year’s judge Laura Jean McKay (who is also this year's Frank O’Connor International Short Story Fellow.

Details of the winner, not yet announced, will be posted here. Prizewinning and shortlisted stories from this competition will be published in Southword 50 (summer 2026).

The 1st Prize winner will read their winning story on Saturday 18th October.

Frank O’Connor International Short Story Fellowship

The Frank O’Connor International Short Story Fellowship is made possible through the very generous sponsorship of Cork City Council. Named for one of Cork’s most renowned writers, it acknowledges the special place the short story form occupies in the cultural history and contemporary practice of the city. The fellow benefits from the prestige of receiving a highly competitive international literary award which will not only allow the candidate to spend three months concentrating on their own work, but also to acquire more experience in the delivery of workshops and mentorships.

Laura Jean McKay, the 2025 recipient of the Frank O’Connor International Short Story Fellowship, will read at the festival on Wednesday 15th October.