The National Creative Writing Industry Day 2025

About the event

Are you a writer hoping to have your work published? Would you like the opportunity to meet agents and editors - to learn how the industry works from its experts and sharpen the skills needed to enter it?

Comma Press invites you to attend the eleventh edition of the National Creative Writing Industry Day, in partnership with Manchester Writing School at Manchester Metropolitan University.

Key Information

Date: Saturday 15th November 2025 Time: 9.30AM-5.30PM

Location: Manchester Writing School, Manchester Metropolitan University

The National Creative Writing Industry Day 2025 is a full day of events for aspiring writers to gain insight into the publishing industry and advice on how to excel in their practice. This special event is committed to providing participants with a unique introduction to the publishing industry and its professionals.

Featuring

A keynote speech by a renowned author
Two panel discussions: ‘Working with an Agent' and ‘Building Your Literary Community’
A choice of four fabulous workshops
Two one-to-one meetings with literary agents or editors to get advice on your pitching technique and work-in-progress*
The opportunity to casually network with fellow writers and publishers both during and after the event.
The day will begin with an introduction and a keynote speech, followed by two panels and a selection of workshops tailored to the needs of those looking to enter the writing industry. In the afternoon, you can meet one-to-one with two literary agents or editors to discuss your works in progress and refine your pitching technique with expert advice from industry professionals.

The full programme will be announced soon.

If you have any questions, contact isabella.barber[at]commapress.co.uk

*Please note that while we are holding agent sessions in person this year, occasionally due to unforeseen circumstances agents have to join us virtually. In these cases we will set up all the tech and you do not have to make any extra preparations for your virtual session. We are not able to offer refunds if you are offered a virtual agent session.

Choose From Four Fabulous Workshops*

1. Synopsising Your Novel

2. Marketing Yourself as a Writer

3. Poetics of the Haunted

4. Writing Intimacy and Relationships

Sponsored & Discounted Tickets

We have a number of discounted places available for underrepresented writers, MMU students and residents of Greater Manchester. Please email isabella.barber[at]commapress.co.uk to enquire.