When Words Collide is so much more than the line up of Guests.
It's networking and sharing ideas, it's learning from one another in a safe and welcoming environment, it's having fun in an industry that can often feel impossible. It's the ability to share your industry experience with others, teach tips and tricks from the trenches, build confidence and so much more. And a large part of that is accomplished through festival panels and presentations.
Important Dates:
Opening: Applications open November 6, 2025
Deadline: December 31st, 2025
It's networking and sharing ideas, it's learning from one another in a safe and welcoming environment, it's having fun in an industry that can often feel impossible. It's the ability to share your industry experience with others, teach tips and tricks from the trenches, build confidence and so much more. And a large part of that is accomplished through festival panels and presentations.
Important Dates:
Opening: Applications open November 6, 2025
Deadline: December 31st, 2025
Perks: All panelists, presenters and moderators will receive a $100 honorarium and be provided with a Festival Pass ($130 value). If you have already purchased your festival pass, and are accepted as a presenter, you will be reimbursed with your honorarium following the festival.
|
Who Should Apply?Storytellers & Wordsmiths
Writers and authors with a knack for sharing insights and sparking creativity. Whether you’ve taught creative writing, spoken at festivals, or simply have a passion for your craft, we want to hear your ideas. Being published or produced is optional—what matters is your voice and confidence in your topic. Experts with a Story Your experience could unlock new worlds for our audience. Detectives, doctors, scientists, therapists, comedians—whatever your expertise, if it sparks ideas for writers, readers, or creatives, this is your chance to share it. Industry Insiders
Your behind-the-scenes know-how can make all the difference! Publishers, editors, publicists, agents, and other literary professionals—we’re looking for your unique perspective to guide and inspire. Publishers & Agents
Are you a publisher or Agent looking to showcase your authors at When Words Collide 2025? We invite you to submit to propose authors for sessions or other opportunities at our event. |
PRESENTER RolesWhen applying, choose the role that aligns best with your expertise and comfort level:
PRESENTERS Presenters deliver solo sessions such as panels, workshops, lectures, or other events lasting 60–90 minutes. This role is ideal for experienced writers, authors, lecturers, or industry professionals who are confident leading a session independently and sharing their deep knowledge on a topic. PANELISTS* Panelists join 2–3 others to discuss a shared topic in a moderated session. Panels, typically lasting up to an hour, often include a Q&A and are guided by a moderator to keep discussions focused and engaging. This is a great fit for writers and authors with emerging experience or a smaller body of work, as well as industry professionals with specialized knowledge. MODERATORS* Moderators guide sessions, keeping speakers on track, audiences engaged, and discussions flowing smoothly. They introduce speakers, lead Q&As, and prepare in advance by familiarizing themselves with the panelists or presenters and the topic. Moderators might also lead special events such as Live Action Slush, author readings, or interviews. Pick the role that suits you best and let your skills shine! *If you are proposing a Panel, you must be attached to it as either a Moderator or Panelist. There will be a call for additional panelists early in the new year, once Panel selections have been made. |
|
Types of sessions
|
LECTURE/SEMINAR
Share expertise or insights on a specific topic through a structured presentation, combined with opportunities for audience interaction, questions, and discussion to deepen understanding and engagement.
AUTHOR EVENT
Or pitch something else! Sessions can be proposed as a gathering where authors connect with an audience to discuss their work, host a book launch, and engage through readings, Q&A sessions, or signings.
They can also be opportunities for networking, entertainment, or engagement, often featuring discussions, presentations, or social activities. These events focus on celebrating authors and their stories while fostering interaction with readers. |
PANELS
Pitch a discussion topic with a novel angle that you are excited to explore. Engage with multiple speakers with expertise or diverse perspectives on a specific topic.
Panel discussions combine structured dialogue with opportunities for audience questions and interaction to explore the subject in depth. You must be attached to the session as either a Moderator or a Panelist. WORKSHOPS
Lead an interactive session where participants actively engage in hands-on activities, exercises, or discussions to develop skills or knowledge on a specific topic. Focus on practical learning and direct application of concepts.
|
Before you apply
We aren't going to be able to take everyone who applies, but we will do our best to find a way for you to be a part of the 2025 program. There are many reasons why you or your topic won't get chosen but the most common and more likely is that we have too many of the same proposal. So make yours stand out above the rest.
Deadline: January 1, 2026
You will be notified by March 1, 2026.
- Be creative. What's your unique take on a particular subject?
- Think outside the box. What makes yours the one that people want to see?
- Send us your best ideas. Think like an audience member. What would you love to see?
- Sell yourself, your topic, and be crystal clear in your proposal.
- Be flexible, but not vague :) The more flexible you are, the easier it will be to find you a spot on another panel, or as a moderator.
Deadline: January 1, 2026
You will be notified by March 1, 2026.