Articles

Initiative targets chronic underfunding of literature, directing unrestricted support to literary arts nonprofits serving writers and readers across the U.S.

Celebrate National Poetry Month with the Poetry Foundation

Free professional development program in Chicago invites educators to deepen and energize poetry instruction

Presenting free poetry events, celebrations of forthcoming titles, and a new visual series. 

Chicago-born poet and performer with a national platform in literary and spoken-word arts will serve as the city's creative ambassador. 

Recognizing poets 40 and older with a $10,000 prize and publication for their first or second book

New fund is dedicated to strengthening the field, advancing support for creative writers, and ensuring their contributions to American literature for generations to come.

Recognizing lifetime achievement in craft, service to the literary arts, and poetry criticism.

Presenting free poetry events, writing workshops, a new exhibition, and more.

Honoring remarkable young poets with more than $145,000 in prizes

Beginning August 18, Smith will welcome listeners to “lean into wonder and joy and truth ... to find hope” with a curated poem each weekday

Foundation aligns organizational values with new investment strategy

Commits More than $3 Million in Grants to 12 Organizations Across the United States

Trustees celebrated the 20th anniversary of Poetry Out Loud at the National Finals

Mendoza Receives a $20,000 Prize as Champion

Celebration of Illinois Arts also marks the creation of the Illinois Creative Caucus and 60th Anniversary of Illinois Arts Council 

Poets encouraged to carry forward the incredible work of Chicago’s inaugural Poet Laureate, the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events, Chicago Public Library, and the Poetry Foundation to bring poetry to the people—apply from April 17 to May 29, 2025.

Students to Compete for $20,000 Grand Prize May 6-7, 2025, as Program Celebrates 20th Anniversary 

Presenting free poetry events, writing workshops, a new exhibition on the poetics of home, and more.

Recognizing poets for achievement in craft, service to the literary arts, poetry criticism, and poetry for young audiences.