Benefits of Membership

The Federation of BC Writers offers a wide variety of services and programs to our members. These include:

  • Keeping you informed: Our many contacts within the writing, editing and publishing communities keep our members in touch with related organizations throughout the province and across Canada. The Federation of BC Writers is a member of the Association of Book Publishers of BC, Alliance for Arts & Culture and Access Copyright. These, and a host of other links, enable the Federation to promote your needs and express your professional concerns at an influential level. By joining the Federation you strengthen the voice of BC’s writing community by making yourself heard. We also exchange newsletters and information with other provincial and national organizations and send out regular bulletins by email. Our website offers a wealth of information on writing including markets and resource listings.
  • Literary Writes: The Federation holds an annual writing contest featuring a different genre each year. Winners are announced and cash prizes awarded at Vancouver's Word on the Street in late September. The contest is open to members and non-members. Unpublished works only.
  • Off The Page Writers in Schools Program: Every year we arrange for and subsidize author visits to the province's public schools to inform and inspire children and teachers about the world of writing and publishing. Thirty-six professional writers from all over the province were involved in 2009 and 29 spots will be available for the 2010 program. Educators are encouraged to ask us about how to book a writer. This program is funded by the Direct Access program and the Federation of BC Writers.
  • WordWorks: Our quarterly journal contains author interviews, essays, new title section, markets and contests, current writing events, industry issues and members' accomplishments. The journal is printed and delivered to our members and other interested parties. Occasional articles are reproduced on the web page. Advertising is accepted.
  • Federation Vox: The executive director produces a monthly e-newsletter listing announcements of interest to writers (funding opportunities, contests, markets and various deadlines), advertising literary events (workshops, readings and launches) and promoting members' achievements (award nominations, favourable reviews, new publishing contracts).
  • Reduced subscription fees for subTerrain: two-year (6 issues) for $20, The Capilano Review: one-year, $20 (cheque) or $22 (Paypal), and Geist.
  • Free and expert advice! Puzzled by a contract clause? Copyright? Looking for an editor? Consult the Federation for free and expert advice.
  • Festivals: We participate in Victoria's Literary Info-Fair, the Surrey International Writers Conference, BC Book & Magazine Week, the Shuswap Writers Festival and The Word on the Street in Vancouver.
  • Promotional Services: Members may post promotional listings for upcoming book launches in the monthly Federation Vox e-newsletter, events or publications on our website, submit new title information in the Launched section of WordWorks, and apply for inclusion in the Member Spotlight located on our home page.
  • Reading Opportunities Program: The Federation offers reading honorariums to professional member writers participating in Federation- or publisher-sponsored reading events.
  • Editorial, Writing & Design Services: Editorial and writing- or design-related services are available from experienced and professional Federation members listed on Hire a Writer.
  • Hire a Writer. Members can post their areas of expertise and contact information in the publicly-accessible online member directory on our website.
  • Discounts on most courses offered by SFU Continuing Studies Writings and Publishing Program, and discounts on workshops offered by the Federation of BC Writers.
  • Master Classes: The Federation offers workshops for modest fees to members and non-members alike. Members receive a reduced rate.
  • Opportunities to meet and network with writing colleagues at Federation-sponsored events, contribute to WordWorks, organize literary events, participate in readings and panel discussions, present workshops and attend literary festivals.



 

 

_______________________________

The Federation of British Columbia Writers operates with funds raised from
membership dues, fundraising activities, corporate and private sponsorship, and
with the support of the Province of British Columbia through the BC Arts Council
and the Direct Access Program, which the Federation gratefully acknowledges.