Introduction
If you’re a poet looking to publish a full-length collection or chapbook, one of the key tasks is finding poetry publishing companies accepting submissions. In 2026, opportunities continue to evolve—some presses open for unsolicited manuscripts, others run contests, and many still require you to follow specific submission windows. This article guides you through the current landscape of poetry publishing companies accepting submissions in 2026, plus practical tips to improve your chances of success.
Why focus on poetry publishing companies accepting submissions?
Publishing poetry differs from prose: many presses specialise in poetry, often run by poets themselves, and their submission windows and requirements can be quite specific. If you target publishing companies accepting submissions (rather than just literary journals), you’re aiming for book-length publication: a full collection or chapbook. Understanding which companies are open to submissions in 2026 helps you plan, format your manuscript correctly, and take advantage of these opportunities.
How to identify submission-ready poetry publishers
Here are criteria to look for when selecting poetry publishing companies accepting submissions:
- Clear “Submit” or “Open Reading” guidelines on their website.
- A reading period or contest for full-length manuscripts.
- Specification of manuscript length (e.g., 45-85 pages) and conditions (unpublished book, etc.).
- Information on rights, royalties, or advances.
- A consistent schedule (annual or biennial) exploring poetry collections.
For example, the National Poetry Series indicates for 2026: “Applications will be accepted starting May 2026” for its Paz Prize, aimed at previously unpublished poetry manuscripts.
Likewise, many submission trackers (e.g., Duotrope) list dozens of poetry-calls currently open.
Notable Poetry Publishing Companies Accepting Submissions in 2026
Below are a few presses & contests that are actively accepting poetry manuscripts or open submissions in 2026. Be sure to check their websites for the most current details.
1. National Poetry Series
- The National Poetry Series opens submissions for the Paz Prize in May 2026.
- Eligibility: Previously unpublished full-length manuscript; length recommended 48-64 pages.
- Why it matters: It’s a well-regarded poetry award that leads to book publication.
- Tip: Have your manuscript fully polished by April; prepare a strong query and cover page.
2. TCK Publishing Poetry Awards Contest
- This is a poetry contest that leads to publication, open for 2026.
- Submission: One poem up to 500 words; international poets accepted.
- While this is not exactly a full collection publisher, it’s still a valuable entry point for publication and exposure.
- Tip: Even if you’re seeking a book collection, entering such contests helps build credibility with poetry publishers accepting submissions.
3. Perugia Press – Perugia Press Prize for Poetry
- Accepting full-length poetry manuscript submissions; winners get book publication and other benefits.
- Check deadlines (past ones were November 15, 2025 for results April 1, 2026).
- Tip: If you target presses accepting submissions in 2026, aim for manuscript ready at least 6 months ahead of deadline.
4. Other resources & lists
- Submission aggregators such as Duotrope list many poetry calls: “130 different calls currently accepting poetry submissions.”
- Online articles identify publishers and presses open to emerging writers or poetry collections.
- Tip: Use these lists to identify smaller niche presses which are often more open to unsolicited manuscripts.
What to prepare: Manuscript, proposal & submission materials
When you target poetry publishing companies accepting submissions in 2026, be ready with:
Manuscript
- A cohesive poetry collection (full-length: 50–90 pages; chapbook: 20–40 pages) depending on press requirements.
- Poems arranged in a sequence with intentional flow.
- Manuscript should often be previously unpublished as a book (though individual poems may have appeared in journals).
Cover Page / Title Page
- Include manuscript title only (if anonymous submissions are required).
- Do not include your name in the manuscript body if guidelines call for blind submission (e.g., National Poetry Series).
Book Proposal or Press Kit (if required)
- Some presses ask for a short synopsis of the collection or its thematic focus.
- Provide bio, publication credits, and marketing ideas.
Formatting
- Use standard manuscript formatting: 12-pt font, double spaced or as specified.
- Page numbers, table of contents if required.
Submission Letter / Email
- Brief, professional introduction to your manuscript and your credentials.
Rights & Permissions
- Ensure you retain appropriate rights (first publication rights, etc.).
- If your manuscript includes previously published poems, note the credits if required by the press.
Key considerations when choosing poetry publishing companies accepting submissions
- Submission fee or not? Some contests or presses charge reading fees; others don’t.
- Open vs. closed reading periods. Many presses have limited windows; monitor deadlines.
- Royalties and rights. Understand what rights you’re granting; some presses may ask for exclusive rights for a period.
- Distribution and promotion. Publishing companies with good distribution can make a difference for your book’s reach.
- Fit for your voice/style. Review the press’s catalog: if they publish work similar to yours, your manuscript is a better match.
- Prestige vs. flexibility. Some top presses are highly selective and only open to solicited manuscripts; more accessible presses may be less known but open to submissions.
Practical timeline for submission in 2026
Here’s a suggested timeline if you’re aiming for a poetry publishing company accepting submissions in 2026:
- Jan–Mar 2026: Finalise manuscript, sequence poems, proofread, get feedback.
- Apr 2026: Research presses/gather guidelines, prepare cover page, bio, proposal.
- May–Jun 2026: Submit to presses whose windows open in this period (e.g., National Poetry Series).
- Jul–Dec 2026: Monitor reading periods for smaller presses; submit chapbook or full collection manuscripts.
- Throughout 2026: Enter poetry contests/publication opportunities to build credentials. Having prior publication helps when approaching presses.
- 2027: If accepted, engage in editing, production, and promotion phases.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Sending a manuscript before it’s polished or sequenced — the best poetry publishing companies accepting submissions expect high quality.
- Ignoring submission guidelines: wrong format, incorrect page count, or wrong theme can lead to automatic rejection.
- Submitting the same manuscript to multiple presses concurrently when exclusivity is required (check guidelines).
- Overlooking the press’s catalogue: if the press rarely publishes your style/genre of poetry, chances are lower.
- Not tracking submissions: use a spreadsheet to track date, press name, status, and response time.
Final thoughts
If you’re ready to publish your poetry collection, targeting poetry publishing companies accepting submissions in 2026 is a smart strategy. By preparing your manuscript, knowing submission windows, and choosing presses aligned with your style, you can navigate the process more confidently. Whether you aim for a well-known award press like the National Poetry Series or a smaller independent press, being strategic matters.
Use the resources listed above to monitor openings, stay proactive, and keep refining your work. With preparation, you’ll be ready when the next submission window opens, and your collection will be poised to find its home.
Good luck with your manuscript—and may your poems find their place in a devoted poetry publishing company accepting submissions in 2026!
