RTÉ has officially launched the 2025 Short Story Competition, honoring the esteemed writer Francis MacManus, and is inviting submissions to celebrate new Irish fiction writing for radio.

The competition welcomes entries in both English and Irish, reflecting the rich and vibrant literary landscape of Ireland.

Writers aged 18 and over, whether residing in Ireland or abroad, can submit their stories until May 23, 2025, with a word count requirement of 1800 to 2000 words, excluding the title.

The competition boasts a total prize fund of €20,000, with €5,000 awarded to the winner, €4,000 for second place, and €3,000 for third place, alongside €300 for seven runners-up.

Winners will be announced during a live RTÉ Arena program in the autumn, and all shortlisted stories will be published on RTÉ Culture and broadcast on RTÉ Radio 1.

All shortlisted works will be produced for radio, voiced by prominent Irish actors, enhancing the reach and impact of the writers' stories.

Neil Hegarty, one of the judges, emphasizes the significance of unexpected thoughts and the 'magic' that comes from writing that flows naturally from personal interests.

Judge Tristan Rosenstock highlights that shortlisted stories will be both read and heard, stressing the importance of writing for auditory engagement.

Rosenstock also advises aspiring authors to read their stories aloud to ensure fluidity and engagement for both the ear and the eye.

The competition has a history of recognizing emerging talent, with past winners including notable authors like Claire Keegan and Liz Nugent.

Recent Irish short story collections from authors like Róise Ní Bhaoill and Michelle Nic Pháidín tackle modern challenges, including themes of motherhood and darker issues such as sexual predation.

The judging panel, which includes Neil Hegarty, Tristan Rosenstock, and Jan Carson, discussed their criteria for selection on RTÉ Radio 1 on March 27, 2025.