Each year, three talented writers will have the chance to explore our incredible archives to inspire new creative works. We’re looking for innovative minds eager to engage with our collections in fresh and exciting ways, producing original writing and sharing their journey with the public

While the University of Exeter Special Collections (Exeter & Penryn campuses) will be the core focus, we welcome projects that connect with other heritage organisations, weaving rich narratives across multiple collections.

Each year one of these stipends may be offered in partnership with another organisation and take a specific focus. For 2025 we are partnering with Exeter City of Literature to offer one of the stipends to a writer from another UNESCO City of Literature.

What’s in it for you?
£2,000 stipend to support your time and expenses
Up to £500 for outreach and engagement activities
Specialist guidance from our expert Special Collections team
Access to a vibrant network of university partners & professionals

To be eligible for the Ronald Duncan Stipend, you:

Must have a strong connection to the Southwest (not applicable for the stipend in partnership with Exeter City of Literature).
Can be at any stage of your career—emerging, mid-career, or established writers are all welcome.
Must be able to travel to visit the Special Collections (remote participation is not possible due to the nature of the archives).
Must be over 18
Must be proficient in English.

We strongly encourage applications from writers with diverse lived experiences, offering fresh perspectives on the collections.

These Stipends are funded by a donation from the Ronald Duncan Literary Foundation to continue his legacy of experimental and cross-disciplinary writing.

Find out more here.

Deadline: Sunday 15th June 2025 (Midnight)