Chanel Launches Originators Mentorship for New Writers

The new program pairs five unpublished fiction authors with established novelists for professional development.

Updated on Oct. 16, 2026 in Books

Gouache-painted illustration of a vintage typewriter and a small wooden box on a desk, representing literary mentorship and creative development. — Chanel and the Women’s Prize Trust have launched the Originators program, providing funding and professional mentorship to five emerging fiction writers. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Chanel and the Women's Prize Trust have introduced the Originators mentorship program to support five emerging fiction writers. The initiative provides selected authors with direct mentorship and funding to advance their careers.

Why it matters

The program is designed to remove traditional barriers to the publishing industry by supporting talented writers who lack prior professional connections or formal education in creative writing.

The inaugural cohort will consist of 5 selected writers chosen by a 5-member selection committee. Eligibility remains open to all fiction writers who have not yet secured a publication.

The players

Chanel

Chanel is a global luxury fashion house that is collaborating with the Women's Prize Trust to fund and facilitate the new mentorship program.

Women's Prize Trust

The Women's Prize Trust is a charitable organization dedicated to celebrating and empowering female writers through various literary awards and programs.

A. M. Homes

A. M. Homes is an award-winning American novelist and short story writer who is serving on the program selection committee.

Nicole Krauss

Nicole Krauss is a prominent American novelist and author of works including The History of Love who is participating on the selection committee.

The details

A selection committee featuring authors A. M. Homes and Nicole Krauss will review submitted fiction samples to determine the final participants. Each chosen writer will be paired with an established novelist to receive personalized guidance and financial support for their work.

October 15, 2026: The program launch event took place at The Twenty Two in New York City.
November 30, 2026: The submission period for prospective writers officially closes.

Industry Dynamics

This program aligns with ongoing efforts to diversify the publishing pipeline by providing resources to writers outside of traditional academic or industry networks. It mirrors the broader shift of luxury brands investing in philanthropic initiatives to cultivate cultural capital.

Aspiring writers can participate by submitting their fiction samples through the official portal before the end of November. The program is specifically designed to be accessible to those without previous industry connections.

The takeaway

The Originators program offers a significant opportunity for unpublished authors to gain professional mentorship and financial support. Interested writers should ensure their submission materials are finalized before the late November deadline.