For the last decade, the Leon Burstein Scholarship has supported writers in all crime genres. In 2024, the MWA-NY board and our longtime patron Dan Burstein revised the scholarship into a CASH AWARD for aspiring crime writers. One winner will be awarded $4,000, and one runner-up will receive $1,000 at our annual Winter Revels. (The MWA-NY board retains the right not to award the prize, if no manuscript is deemed suitable.)
Eligibility:
Affiliate status NY Chapter members are eligible.
(Active members, board members, and previous winners are ineligible.)
Process:
1. By July 1, 2026, email the first 20 pages of your manuscript in any mystery/crime genre. Please do not put your name anywhere in the attachment. The filename should be the name of your manuscript title (but NOT your name). Download and complete the application form. Send your twenty-page submission and completed application form (scan or photo) to LeonBursteinAwardS@mwany.org. There is no application fee.
2. On or around August 18, 2026, we will request full manuscripts from those writers who advance to Round
3. By October 19, 2026, two finalists will be invited to the award ceremony at MWA-NY’s annual Revels.
MWA-NY provides many resources for writers. Annually, our Mentoring Program offers all members an opportunity to submit 35 pages of their work for critique from published authors. Our Groups.IO page features links to useful information, including where to locate agent lists, articles to improve craft and more. Virtual Crime Craft meetings conducted by renowned authors and experts on a variety of topics are held on the third Tuesday of each month. Our library panel discussions also explore aspects of the creative process and the mystery genre. The MWA-NY Leon Burstein Award is another tool to help our members succeed. Good luck!
Application form for the MWA-NY Leon Burstein Contest 2026.
Ken Wishnia and the NY Chapter Board
LeonBursteinAwardS@mwany.org