New City Critics Fellowship 2026 for Early to Mid-Career Writers (With Honorarium)

The New City Critics Fellowship is designed to empower diverse voices in urban criticism, focusing on the development of critics from underrepresented backgrounds. This program offers workshops, guest lectures, and networking opportunities, encouraging participants to produce critical writing on urban design and development. By fostering a more inclusive dialogue about cities, the fellowship aims to enrich public discourse and expand the narratives surrounding urban life.

Fellows will engage in a 9-month program that includes bi-monthly meetings, writing assignments, and public programs. Participants will receive a $7,500 honorarium and will have the chance to publish their work through Urban Omnibus, contributing to a broader understanding of urban issues.

Applicants should be early- to mid-career writers or urbanists with a passion for urban criticism. Candidates must live or work in the New York metropolitan area and should demonstrate prior publication and engagement with urban topics. The fellowship is particularly aimed at individuals who feel their experiences are not reflected in current urban criticism.

Fellows will receive a $7,500 honorarium for their participation in the program.