Awards

The Seán Ó Faoláin International Short Story Competition

The Seán Ó Faoláin International Short Story Competition awards the best single story entered from anywhere in the world. The first prize is €2,000, 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 Louise Hegarty. Details of the winner, not yet announced, will be posted here soon. Prizewinning and shortlisted stories from this competition will be published in Southword 52 (summer 2027).

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.

Zsuzsi Gartner, the 2026 recipient of the Frank O’Connor International Short Story Fellowship, will read at the festival on Wednesday 14th October.