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 the greater Boston area 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 Online Novel Incubator 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.
Instructor:
- Laura Warrell
Application Info:
- Application Opens: Tuesday, May 20th
- Applications Close: Wednesday, July 16th
- Notifications sent: the end of August
Info Session:
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.
Note: Applications for the 2025–2026 In-Person Novel Incubator have closed. Applications for the 2026–2027 In-Person Novel Incubator will open in Fall 2025.
Location:
- The In-Person Novel Incubator will be held at GrubStreet’s Center for Creative Writing located in Boston’s Seaport neighborhood.
Instructor:
- Michelle Hoover
Application Info:
- Application Opens: Fall 2025
- Submission Deadline: February 2026
- Decision Notifications: Early April 2026
Program Dates:
- Program Duration: June 2026 – May 2027
- Class Time: Mondays, 6:00 to 9:30pm ET
- First Day of Class: June 2025
Free Information Sessions:
- In-Person Q&A: TBA
- Online Q&A via Zoom: TBA
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.
Student Success
After their time in the Novel Incubator, students have published novels with Simon & Schuster, HarperCollins, Penguin Random House, Macmillan, Hachette Book Group, and more. Alumni have also found literary success through winning writing awards and contests and launching their writing careers by teaching and presenting at conferences and festivals. Hear what Novel Incubator alumni have to say about their experience.
Questions?
If you have specific questions about the Novel Incubator program, email [email protected] or call the office anytime at 617.695.0075.