2026 Jim Duggins, PhD Outstanding Mid-Career Novelist Prize

Dedicated to the memory of author and journalist Jim Duggins, this prize honors LGBTQ-identified authors who have published multiple novels, built a strong reputation and following, and show promise to continue publishing high quality work for years to come. Made possible through the generous support of the James Duggins Estate, two winners will each receive a cash prize of $5,000.

Eligibility

In order to be considered for the award, the applicant must:

• self-identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or queer;
• have written and published at least three novels or two novels and substantial additional literary work (including poems, stories, or essays); and
• be of demonstrated ability and show promise for growth in their writing.

Additional Information

This award is for a writer, not a book. The application must therefore focus on the qualifications of the writer, not the qualities of a particular book. The prize will be awarded with a goal of gender diversity among recipients.

This award honors mid-career novelists. For the purposes of this prize, Lambda Literary defines mid-career novelists as those who have published at least three novels or two novels and substantial additional literary work (including poems, stories, and essays).

Applicants’ contributions to the LGBTQ literary field beyond their writings and publications shall also be considered.