River Paw Press Celebrates Five Years of Literary Activism and Announces Three Prestigious Poetry Prizes
River Paw Press, an independent publishing company dedicated to advancing literature that champions causes of global significance, proudly marked its five-year anniversary in 2025 with an expansion of its publishing program and the launch of three major literary awards.
Founded with a vision to discover unique voices, foster socially conscious and transformative literature, River Paw Press began its journey by publishing poetry anthologies in collaboration with new and established writers, translators, and editors from around the world. Over the years, the press has remained committed to spotlighting poetry that speaks truth to power and gives voice to the voiceless—publishing works that center on issues such as war, displacement, human rights, animal rights, environmental degradation, and the resilience of the human spirit.
In just three years, River Paw Press made its mark on the international literary stage. Its books, anthologies and collaborative works have received multiple accolades, including finalist and winner distinctions from the International Book Awards, National Indie Excellence Awards, and the Hryhorii Kochur Award presented by the state of Ukraine.
Despite early interest from poets and writers seeking traditional publication routes, River Paw Press has remained selective, choosing to publish only works that align deeply with its mission. Now, inspired by the overwhelming interest and heartfelt inquiries from poets across the country, River Paw Press is opening a new chapter in 2025 by introducing the Silent River Poetry Prize for a first-time full-length poetry collection, poetry chapbook, and the Earth Amulet Poetry Prize (for a themed anthology of poetry for the planet inspired by nature).
SILENT RIVER POETRY PRIZE
Silent River Poetry Prize is established to discover fresh new voices in poetry and provide them with more than just a publishing opportunity, offering a meaningful launchpad for their literary careers. This prize is rooted in the belief that poetry can be a powerful force for bringing transformation, and that emerging poets deserve not only recognition but a supportive platform to grow, connect, and flourish.
The Silent River Poetry Prize for a First Full-Length Poetry Collection (Call for entry opens in January 15 2026) offers Total Prize Value $1000, including a Cash Honorarium + Publication.
The Silent River Poetry Prize for a Chapbook
(call for entry opens in on January 15, 2026) offers Total Prize Value $500, including a Cash Honorarium + Publication.
SUBMIT HERE.
EARTH AMULET POETRY PRIZE (Poetry for the planet inspired by nature)
(Three Cash Prizes and Publication)
The Earth Amulet Poetry Prize is a poetry contest devoted to environmental themes. This new initiative furthers the press’s commitment to bring awareness about environmental causes and having the belief that poetry can play a vital role in awakening conscience and inspiring positive change.
Submissions for the Earth Amulet Poetry Prize opens on Earth Day, April, 22, 2026.
SUBMIT HERE.
