Who can enter?

The Bracken Prize for Young Authors is awarded annually to an outstanding unpublished business book proposal. It is designed to identify and support original ideas that examine the future of business, economics and related fields, and that offer fresh perspectives on pressing challenges. 

The prize is open to emerging authors — including early-career researchers, writers and practitioners — who are developing ambitious, unpublished business book proposals. Applicants do not need to follow a traditional academic or publishing route, and previous publication experience is not a barrier. 

Entrants must be aged between 18 and 34 inclusive on 30 September 2026. All proposals must be original and unpublished. Entries should include a book proposal maximum 5,000 words, as well as a separate statement maximum 250 words explaining how artificial intelligence was used, if at all. 

Further details on eligibility and submission requirements can be found in the FAQs and full terms and conditions.

A clear description of the book’s structure

- Follows a logical progression

- Builds a coherent argument across chapters

- Demonstrates both breadth and depth of thinking

This should give a clear sense of how the idea develops from beginning to end.

A separate short biography must be included’s structure

- Explain why you are well placed to explore this topic

- Highlight relevant experience, research or professional insight

- Provide context for your point of view

AI policy

- Clearly outline any use of AI tools

- Be transparent and concise

- Reflect your own authorship and thinking

Have more questions on the process? Visit to our FAQs page below

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