Two humor writers will receive free registration, travel and hotel expenses for the March 26-28, 2026, Erma Bombeck Writers’ Workshop, followed by an all-expenses-paid writing residency at the University of Dayton Marriott Hotel through April 9. It’s the gift of time to write and free room service. The package is worth approximately $5,000, but the experience is priceless. Cash prizes for finalists and honorable mentions. Contest runs Sept. 2-Oct. 6, 2025.
Hi, there! Thanks for your interest in A Hotel Room of One's Own: The Erma Bombeck Humorist-in-Residence Program. On the application, we ask you to reply to a few short questions and upload a sample of your funny writing. It does not need to be a new piece of writing. Please stay within the word limits and make sure your writing sample does NOT contain your name or any other identifying information. NOTE: The word limit for your writing sample is 1,250 words. It's helpful to read the FAQs before applying. We look forward to reading your submission — good luck!