Small Publishers Accepting Submissions: How to Get Published in 2027

Did you know that small publishers vet over 1,500 manuscripts monthly, offering a direct path for unagented authors to get published? Discover how to tap into these opportunities in 2027.

Understanding Small Publishers Accepting Submissions in 2027

What Are Small Publishers and Why They Matter

Small publishers include independent presses, literary magazines, and hybrid models like Atmosphere Press that actively seek manuscript submissions from new and seasoned authors. These publishers often focus on niche genres or innovative voices, providing a more accessible route for authors without traditional agents.

In my experience working with authors, small presses excel at nurturing debut authors by taking risks on fresh ideas and diverse perspectives. They offer direct contact with editors, which is rare in big publishing houses, making the submission process more straightforward.

Current industry trends show these presses vet thousands of manuscripts monthly—Atmosphere Press, for example, reviews around 1,500 submissions each month to select roughly 30 authors. This high volume means your chances are better if you target the right small publisher lists and follow their submission guidelines closely.

Genres and Content Types in 2027

Popular genres include fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and flash fiction, with a notable rise in eco-fiction, speculative, and YA titles. Small presses are increasingly interested in themed anthologies and short-form content, like drabbles or flash stories under 1,500 words, especially for quick-turnaround zines and chapbooks.

For instance, Atmosphere Press vetting 1,500 manuscripts monthly demonstrates their openness to diverse content types, from literary fiction to genre-specific calls. This trend reflects the shift toward micro-content and niche projects that cater to short attention spans and niche audiences.

Understanding these trends helps you craft targeted book manuscripts or short stories aligned with what small publishers seek today. Check their websites frequently for open reading periods and thematic calls, as these often open early in the year, especially January.

How to Find Small Publishers Accepting Submissions

Best Resources and Platforms

To find small publishers accepting submissions, start with comprehensive small press lists available on sites like Authors Publish. They compile hundreds of calls for submissions across genres, including literary fiction, poetry, memoir, and nonfiction, with many opening in January 2027.

Using platforms like How to Pitch a Book to Publishers and Best Publishers For New Authors can help you identify paying markets and avoid publishers that charge no submission fee but offer limited compensation.

Additionally, Submittable remains a key tool for tracking and submitting to multiple presses efficiently. Many publishers, including literary magazines and hybrid publishers like Atmosphere Press, use Submittable for their open calls, making it easier to organize your manuscript submissions.

Targeting Genre-Specific Calls for Submissions

Once you've identified small publisher lists and resources, focus on genre-specific calls that match your work. For example, Violet Lichen’s eco-fiction call in January 2027 offers $25–$50 per story, which is typical for niche markets seeking environmental or speculative stories. For more on this, see our guide on book design tips.

Check publisher websites regularly for open reading periods and specific genre guidelines. For instance, literary markets like Joffe Books accept unagented submissions in commercial fiction, while poetry markets often have strict formatting requirements.

Tailoring your submissions to these calls increases the chance of acceptance. Pay close attention to word counts, theme fit, and whether they accept translated works or require permissions. For example, Hollow Oak Press calls for cozy fantasy anthologies usually specify 3,000–8,000 words and pay flat fees like $30 for a story.

Preparing Your Manuscript for Submission

Following Submission Guidelines Precisely

Each publisher’s submission guidelines are crucial. Use the specified formats, such as Times New Roman 12pt, double-spaced, and include your name, email, and manuscript title on the document. Many small presses prefer submissions via their submission platforms or email, so read instructions carefully.

For anthologies, ensure your book manuscript hits exact word counts—like 5,000–8,000 words for Raconteur Publishing or 3,000–8,000 words for Hollow Oak’s cozy fantasy calls. Meeting these specifications shows professionalism and increases your chances of being considered.

Special instructions might include submitting a cover letter, providing permissions for translated works, or including a bio. Automateed can help you format your work correctly and keep track of submission guidelines across multiple publishers, saving time and reducing errors.

Crafting a Strong Submission Package

Personalize your cover letters when possible, highlighting why your work fits the call. Mention relevant experience or previous publications to make your pitch stand out.

Prepare multiple submissions but avoid overloading editors—quality beats quantity. Diversify your work across different calls and genres to maximize your chances of acceptance.

Utilizing tools like Automateed for formatting and managing your submission timelines can streamline this process, letting you focus on polishing your manuscript and cover letter.

Timelines, Deadlines, and Response Expectations

Key Submission Deadlines in January 2027

January 2027 is packed with themed calls—Rat Bag Lit’s drabbles deadline is Jan 14, Hollow Oak’s cozy fantasy closes Jan 31, and Violet Lichen’s eco-fiction call ends Jan 31. Planning your submissions early helps you meet these deadlines. For more on this, see our guide on pitch book publishers.

Quick turnaround publishers like Atmosphere Press respond within around 2 weeks, so you should expect to hear back promptly if your work aligns with their selection criteria.

Track all deadlines carefully using spreadsheets or dedicated submission management tools. Staying organized ensures you don’t miss critical reading periods or submit late.

What to Expect After Submission

Response times vary widely among small publishers. Hybrid presses like Atmosphere often reply within 2 weeks, while others may take longer—sometimes 6–8 weeks, especially for themed anthologies.

Rejections are common, even from reputable publishers. Use these as learning opportunities—revise your work if needed and submit to other calls. Follow up politely if you haven’t received a response after the typical review period.

Staying persistent and organized is key. Remember, success often comes from continuous submissions across multiple publishers and calls.

Common Challenges When Submitting to Small Presses & How to Overcome Them

Dealing with High Volume and Rejections

Small presses vet thousands of manuscripts; rejection is part of the process. In my experience, targeting multiple calls and diversifying genres like poetry, memoir, fiction, and nonfiction increases your odds.

Use small publisher lists and submission platforms to streamline your efforts. Keep a spreadsheet of your submissions, noting responses and feedback, to stay motivated and organized.

Focus on quality submissions—not quantity—and tailor each to the specific guidelines to avoid common mistakes that lead to rejection.

Ensuring Guideline Compliance

Carefully read each publisher’s submission guidelines before sending your work. Incorrect formatting or exceeding word limits often lead to immediate rejection. For more on this, see our guide on best publishers new.

Tools like Automateed can help automate formatting, ensuring your book manuscript or poetry aligns with publisher expectations. This reduces errors and saves you time.

Pay attention to detail: include your contact info, hit exact reading periods, and follow theme-specific instructions for anthologies or special issues.

Best Practices for Successful Submissions in 2027

Research and Target the Right Markets

Use reliable resources like Poets & Writers, New Pages, and small press directories to identify literary markets that accept manuscript submissions. Focus on niche categories like cozy fantasy, eco-fiction, or marginalized voices.

Pay attention to submission deadlines and themed calls—these are often announced early in the year. Tailoring your book manuscript or short story to these themes improves your chances.

For nonfiction, consider publishers like How2Conquer that focus on business or self-help, especially if your project aligns with their mission.

Build Relationships and Stay Organized

Track your submissions meticulously with spreadsheets or dedicated tools. Engage with publishers on social media or via email for feedback or networking opportunities.

Attending webinars or workshops about small press publishing can provide inside tips and help you understand what editors look for.

Building these relationships can lead to future opportunities, especially if you stay engaged and professional.

Leverage AI and Automation Tools

Using tools like Automateed can help format your manuscript, track submission deadlines, and manage your communication with publishers. This allows you to focus on crafting quality content instead of administrative tasks. For more on this, see our guide on book rights management.

Staying ahead of deadlines and automating repetitive tasks ensures your submission process remains smooth and efficient, increasing your overall success rate.

Conclusion: Navigating the Small Press Landscape in 2027

Small press directories and submission guidelines are your best tools for success in 2027. By researching niche markets, targeting themed calls, and staying organized, you can significantly increase your chances of getting published.

Remember, persistence and attention to detail are key. Many successful authors started with small publishers before moving on to larger markets, so stay patient and keep submitting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Publishers accepting unagented submissions?

Yes, many small publishers, including Atmosphere Press and Joffe Books, accept unagented submissions, making the traditional publishing path more accessible for authors without agents.

Are small presses open now?

Most small presses open their reading periods around January 2027, especially for themed anthologies or special issues. Check small press directories regularly for updates.

Are there calls for specific genres like YA or sci-fi?

Absolutely. Many publishers seek genre-specific calls, including YA, sci-fi, poetry, memoir, and more. Tailor your submissions accordingly to fit these niches.

For example, Violet Lichen’s eco-fiction call offers opportunities for stories aligned with environmental themes in 2027.

No-agent-needed publishers?

Most small publishers, including Austin Macauley and Atmosphere Press, do not require agents. They often prefer direct submissions, simplifying the process for authors.

Always review submission guidelines carefully to ensure your work qualifies and meets all criteria.

By following these practices, you can navigate the small press landscape effectively and increase your chances of publication in 2027.