Helping Promising First-Time Authors Begin
The Huggins First Book Fellowship is an opportunity designed to support selected first-time authors whose manuscripts demonstrate promise, purpose and alignment with the values of Huggins Publishers.
We understand that publishing a first book can feel financially and professionally overwhelming. The fellowship provides selected authors with additional guidance and a more accessible pathway into professional publishing.
What the Fellowship May Provide
Depending on the author’s needs, manuscript readiness and available publishing capacity, fellowship support may include:
• A complimentary initial manuscript assessment
• Individual guidance through the publishing process
• Reduced or deferred publishing costs
• A structured editorial and production plan
• Professional editing and proofreading
• Interior formatting and cover design
• ISBN and publication setup
• Lulu print-on-demand preparation
• Placement in the Huggins Publishers online bookstore
• Basic book-launch guidance
• Royalty reporting under the signed publishing agreement
The specific support offered to a successful applicant will be explained in writing before the project begins.
Who May Apply?
The fellowship is intended for authors who:
• Have not previously published a full-length book
• Have completed a substantial or full manuscript
• Demonstrate a clear and meaningful purpose for the book
• Are willing to participate actively in editing and production
• Can meet agreed revision and approval deadlines
• Are committed to promoting their published work
• Are comfortable working within a professional publishing agreement
We welcome manuscripts that contribute to knowledge, faith, leadership, personal growth, education, culture, social transformation and lasting legacy.
How Authors Are Selected
Applications may be evaluated according to:
• The quality and originality of the manuscript
• The clarity of the book’s message
• The needs of the intended audience
• The author’s commitment and readiness
• Alignment with Huggins Publishers’ mission
• Editorial and production requirements
• Available fellowship spaces and publishing capacity
The fellowship is selective. Submission of an application does not guarantee acceptance or publication.
The Application Process
1. Submit Your Manuscript
Send your completed manuscript together with the requested author and book information.
2. Initial Review
Huggins Publishers reviews the manuscript’s suitability, completeness, purpose and production needs.
3. Author Conversation
Shortlisted applicants may be invited to discuss the manuscript, publishing goals, intended audience and commitment to the project.
4. Fellowship Decision
Successful applicants receive a written fellowship offer stating the support included, author responsibilities, payment arrangements—if applicable—royalties and the expected production schedule.
5. Publishing Agreement
The author and Huggins Publishers sign a publishing agreement before editorial or production work begins.
What the Author Is Expected to Contribute
A fellowship is a professional partnership. Selected authors are expected to:
• Respond promptly to editorial communication
• Complete revisions within agreed timelines
• Review and approve production files carefully
• Provide accurate biographical and book information
• Secure permissions for third-party material
• Participate in the book’s promotion and launch
• Fulfil any financial responsibilities stated in the agreement
Availability
Fellowship places are limited and may not be available at all times. Huggins Publishers may open, pause or close applications according to editorial capacity and available resources.
Applications that are not selected for fellowship support may still be considered for another Huggins publishing pathway.
Begin Your First-Book Journey
If you have completed your first manuscript and believe your work can inform, inspire or transform readers, we invite you to submit it for consideration.