INC. Project
Calling all writers and creators!
The INC. Project is celebrating its 18th anniversary at the Halton Hills Public Library!
Open to students in grades 3 to 10, this annual writing contest invites young writers to submit their original poetry, short story, or essay for a chance to win a $50 gift card and have their work published in the INC. Project Anthology that will be added to the library's collection. Plus, have their story featured on the Short Story Dispenser!
Whatever sparks your imagination, this is your chance to put it on the page and let your unique voice be heard!
INC. Project
Contest information
Dates
Submissions accepted September 8-November 10, 2026
Winners announced: November 27, 2026
INC. Project Awards: Presented as part of Winter Wonder December 5.
Project categories
Poetry: The Poetry Category is for original works written in verse that are a maximum 40 lines in length. A winner in this category will be selected for each of the following age groups:
Grades 3-5
Grades 6-8
Grades 9-10
Short Story & Essay: The Short Story & Essay Category is for original short stories and essays that are a maximum of 2000 words in length. A winner in this category will be selected for each of the following age groups:
Grades 3-5
Grades 6-8
Grades 9-10
Submission guidelines
Entries are accepted September 8– November 10, 2026
Writers may submit one piece of writing per category
Writers must reside or attend school in Halton Hills
Writers may use their own names or pseudonyms
By entering the contest, you give us permission to use your name for promotion
Entries must be submitted electronically and be typed
Entries must be your own original work
Entries must be in English
Entries may not include any profanity or graphic content
Judging
The judges are librarians and community members such as teachers, local authors, and journalists. They do not know the writers' names until after the judging is complete. The judges' decisions are final.
Winners
Winners receive a $50 gift card and a copy of the INC. Project Anthology, and their stories will be featured on the library's short story dispenser.
Winners will be invited to read at the INC. Project Awards. All writers are invited to attend.
Our sponsor
The Friends of the Halton Hills Public Library sponsors our INC. Project.
