Get Your Novel Publication-Ready
It is without a doubt the best thing I’ve done to help my writing career.
- Robert FernandesGrubStreet’s Novel Incubator is a year-long, rigorous program for writers ready to transform their novel drafts into polished, submission-ready manuscripts. Designed for a small cohort of ten, the program offers an intensive revision process, craft deep-dives, and a thoughtful introduction to the publishing world—including sessions with literary agents, editors, and alumni.
Writers gain what’s often missing from even the most prestigious MFA programs: a consistent, skilled community ready to read full manuscripts and offer meaningful feedback. After the program ends, graduates join a vibrant alumni network that continues to offer support, connection, and opportunities.
We welcome writers of all backgrounds, identities, and experience levels. Whether you’ve been writing for decades or just finished your first draft, we believe great writing comes from an expansive, curious, and inclusive mindset.
Ideal applicants have a complete draft of a novel (even a rough one), experience giving and receiving feedback in a workshop setting, and a commitment to growing in community. All genres are welcome. Writers still working toward a full draft may want to explore our Novel Generator program, designed for earlier stages of the novel-writing journey.
Introducing a new online Novel Incubator experience:
GrubStreet's industry-leading Novel Incubator has historically been an in-person program; however, due to demand and community feedback, we're now also offering an online section of the program as well. Now writers beyond Boston can participate in a fully online environment. For more information on the features and facets of this new online program, read the FAQs here.
Key Dates & Information
Location:
- The 2025-2026 Novel Incubator with Laura Warrell will take place on Zoom. Writers everywhere are encouraged to apply, with special preference given to applicants outside of Boston who cannot access the in-person program.
Application Info:
- Application Opens: Tuesday, May 20th
- Applications Close: Wednesday, July 16th
- Notifications sent: the end of August
Info Session:
- Monday, June 16th, 6:30pm to 7:30pm EST
Program Dates:
- Program Duration: September 2025 - June 2026
- Class Time: Mondays, 6:00-9:00pm EST
- Instructor-student one-on-one meetings will typically take place Wednesdays from 6:00 to 7:00pm EST.
- First Day of Class: Tuesday, September 29th, 2025
Financial Info:
- Tuition Total: $8,955
- Scholarship Info: Available in the amount of 25% to 75% off the total tuition cost. The optional and brief application is attached at the end of the standard program application for your convenience.
Location:
- The Novel Incubator will be held in person at GrubStreet’s Center for Creative Writing located in Boston’s Seaport neighborhood.
Application Info:
- Application Opens: November 6, 2024
- Submission Deadline: February 10, 2025, by 11:59pm ET
- Decision Notifications: Early April 2025
Program Dates:
- Program Duration: June 2025 – May 2026
- Class Time: Mondays, 6:00 to 9:30pm ET
- First Day of Class: June 2, 2025
Free Information Sessions:
- In-Person Q&A: December 2, 2024, from 6:30 to 7:30pm ET at the Seaport location
- Online Q&A via Zoom: January 11, 2025, from 10:00 to 11:00am ET
Financial Info:
- Tuition Total: $8955
- Scholarship Info: Available in the amount of 25% to 75% off the total tuition cost. The optional and brief application is attached at the end of the standard program application for your convenience.
Student Success
After their time in the Novel Incubator, students have published widely in outlets like Simon & Schuster, Skyhorse, Penguin Random House, Forge, Hachette Book Group, and more. Alumni have found literary success through winning writing awards, contests, and launching their writing careers by teaching and presenting at conferences and festivals. Learn more about Novel Incubator alums.
Questions?
If you have specific questions about the Novel Incubator program, email [email protected] or call the office anytime at 617.695.0075.