Launching 1st January 2025
The Roaring Lion Newcastle (TRLN) is proud to announce dRAFTed, a new initiative designed to support Nigerian creative writers experiencing financial hardship.
dRAFTed delivers a lifeline for storytellers; fiction writers, essayists, poets, and spoken-word artists- and provides assistance to help them meet basic expenses and continue doing what they do best; creating.
Our Mission
dRAFTed is committed to empowering Nigerian writers by easing the financial burdens that can interrupt the creative process. Through quarterly support, the fund enables writers to remain focused on their craft and maintain stability in their daily lives.
Application Process
The application window opens on the first day of the respective quarters (January, April, July, and October) and closes on the last day of the month.
Writers can apply by completing a simple online application form, which includes:
1. Personal Information
Name, date of birth, contact details, and address. (A headshot photo, proof of identification and address will be requested from successful applicants prior to release of funds).
2. Statement of Need (150–200 words)
Applicants explain their current financial situation and how the fund will support them. This may include needs such as rent, utilities or medical expenses, etc.
3. Published Project Link
A link to a published piece — fiction, nonfiction, poetry, or spoken word, released within the last two years. This demonstrates active engagement in creative writing.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Be a Nigerian creative writer (fiction, nonfiction, poetry, or spoken word)
- Be currently residing in Nigeria
- Have at least one published piece within the last two years (print or digital).
- Be 18 years or older
Exclusions
- Writers with AI-generated published works are explicitly excluded.
- Writers with affiliations (e.g. published authors, etc.) to TRLN are excluded from applying to the fund.
- Employees, volunteer staff members of TRLN, and their relatives are also excluded from applying to the fund.
Supporting Creativity. Elevating Voices.
Drafted is a fund committed to sustaining the voices shaping Nigerian literature. By providing consistent support, we aim to help writers overcome financial obstacles and continue sharing their stories with the world.
Apply here