Vellum Press spotlights exceptional writing as well as the stories of the writers, translators, and curators behind the work, helping readers connect to both the storyteller and the story. Vellum is a digitally-native press. Through our app, Vellum makes reading affordable, accessible, and ritualistic, bringing exceptional storytelling into the rhythm of modern, fast-paced lives. We provide a highly-curated experience, tailored to each individual reader, helping them to discover work that resonates with them.
We publish everything from short stories to poems to novels, providing a varied experience tailored to readers’ needs—be that a quick hit of inspiration in the morning, something short to read while waiting for the train or something to sink into as an immersive escape. Vellum books have the feel of instant cult classics, with a focus on publishing forgotten gems from the past, new translations of remarkable literature from around the world, and bold original fiction. In addition to our app, Vellum publishes beautifully-designed limited edition runs of book-length works, zines featuring selections of our short form content, and more. Vellum was founded by Mike Tan and Naomi Schlaff in New York City in 2025.
Vellum Prize
We are seeking submissions of book-length original literary fiction, written in English, that is evocative, genre-bending, and perspective-shifting. Submissions may blend elements of mystery, romance, autofiction, historical fiction, and speculative fiction, and should surprise, move, and challenge the reader.
The deadline for submissions is November 30th, 2025. Submissions will be screened by Vellum’s founders and editors. The prize-winning writer will receive $3,000 and publication by Vellum. The winner will be announced in February 2026.
Terms & Conditions
Please read these terms and conditions closely. Submission is considered acceptance of these terms and conditions and agreement to be bound by them.
1) The submission must be either completed manuscripts or excerpts of at least 50 pages. Excerpts must be accompanied by a detailed outline of the remainder of the book and a statement explaining how far along you are in the drafting process.
2) Each submission must be accompanied by a cover letter that includes a biographical statement.
3) The submission must not have been previously published in full. Submissions that have been self-published are ineligible for the prize.
4) Submissions must be emailed to hello@velllum.press with “Submission:” in the subject line.
5) Submissions must be either a Word document or a PDF. Submissions must be double-spaced. Submissions must include page numbers.
6) The submission must be the entrant’s own original creation. The entrant asserts that the submission does not infringe on the right or copyright of any person or entity.
7) Entrants are permitted to submit their novel elsewhere but must notify Vellum promptly if their submission is accepted for publication elsewhere via email to hello@vellum.press with “Withdrawal:” in the subject line.
8) Entrants may submit only one entry per prize cycle.
9) The novel must be written in English (no translations).
10) Submissions may be made by the author of the novel or their agent (if they have one).
11) Only submissions received by the deadline will be considered. Vellum reserves the right to change the deadline.
12) Entries that are incomplete, corrupted, or received after the deadline will not be considered.
13) Vellum reserves the right to organize a meeting with any entrant prior to the award of the prize.
14) Unsuccessful entrants will not be contacted.
15) No editorial feedback will be provided to unsuccessful entrants.
16) Vellum’s decision is final and no discussions or correspondence will be entered into regarding the evaluation process.
17) Vellum will have exclusive worldwide rights to the publication of the winning submission.
18) Vellum reserves the right not to award the prize or to make multiple offers of publication.
19) Vellum reserves the right to disqualify any submission that fails to comply with all terms and conditions.