The First Chapter Awards

Shining a spotlight on early professionals and hopefuls from across the book community

The First Chapter Awards recognise early-stage professionals, volunteers and hopefuls within the book community. This award aims to celebrate those in the very early years in the industry – those in the first five years in the industry – and crucially seeks to involve those from different roles within the book ecosystem, from librarians to content creators, aspiring publishers to booksellers.

The award is run by SYP in collaboration with The Publishing Post, two volunteer-run organisations that work to improve the accessibility of the industry.

The First Chapter Awards celebrates those early in their career who show a determination to supporting their team and a passion for the industry.

• Support Others
• Show Passion for the Industry
• Demonstrate Dedication to their Goals

Who is Eligible?

• Open to individuals across the UK and Ireland operating within the book and publishing community

• For those in the first 5 years in the industry or haven’t yet begun a career in the industry

• Nominate yourselves, or an inspirational colleague or teammate

This award is open to a broad range of individuals at the very beginning of their careers, including:

• Hopefuls: Individuals aspiring to break into the publishing industry.
• Booksellers: Those whose passion and knowledge of books keeps things spinning.
• Early Publishing and Book-Related Industry Professionals: Those who have recently started their careers and are adding notable value to their team.
• Volunteers: Individuals who donate their time and effort to literary festivals, book events, organisations, and reading charities.
• Influencers: Those who are sharing insight and a love for the industry and reading in their spare time.
• Librarians: Professionals dedicated to fostering a love for books and reading within communities.
• Freelancers: Those working as freelancers within the book industry to support teams or elevate book-related activities.

When do the applications open?

Applications for the First Chapter Awards 2025 have now closed. Please revisit this page for more information about the First Chapter Awards 2026. It is a simple application form and you can nominate yourself or others.

This is a perfect opportunity to spotlight stars within your professional and volunteer team, and draw attention to the hard work being carried out by early-career professionals within the book community.

Shortlisted candidates will be announced at the end of the summer with winners announced at the SYP conference in November.

What do the winners receive?

A diverse judging panel comprising professionals from across the publishing and book industry will carefully evaluate the nominations. The winners will receive:

• A free year-long SYP membership
• Prizes from across the industry
• Attend an awards ceremony at the SYP Oxford Conference and take part in a panel
• The winners will be supported across SYP and Publishing Post socials and website.

Please contact sypchair@thesyp.org.uk if you have any enquiries about the First Chapter Awards.