Gregory O’Donoghue International Poetry Competition

The Gregory O’Donoghue International Poetry Competition is an annual single-poem prize hosted by the Munster Literature Centre in Cork, Ireland. First held in 2010, it is named in honour of the late Irish poet long associated with the Centre. The judged for 2026 is Shangyang Fang.

The competition is open to original, unpublished and unbroadcast poems in English, 40 lines or fewer, by writers of any nationality living anywhere in the world. Simultaneous submissions are accepted.

A fees-free entry route is available to a limited number of poets who cannot afford the fee and are based in a developing country.

The winner receives a cash prize, a featured reading at the Cork International Poetry Festival with a four-night hotel stay and full board, a feature on the Southword Poetry Podcast, and publication in Southword. Second, third, and ten runner-up prizes are also awarded, each including publication in Southword.

The Munster Literature Centre is a not-for-profit organisation, and all proceeds from the competition go back into supporting writers and writing.

Is this event legit?YES! – Based on our research this event is legitimate and the organizer is well established. However, as with any opportunity, please remember to do your own research before submitting your work. Check the organizer’s website and carefully read the terms and conditions!

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