The FlashLIT Writing Contest will return in 2026, inviting UNCW students to submit original short-form writing inspired by a shared theme. The theme is Trash. 

Submissions will be accepted through Thursday, Jan. 29, at 5 p.m.

The contest is open to all UNCW students and welcomes entries in any genre, with a maximum length of 500 words. Cash prizes will be awarded to the top three entries: $200 for first place, $150 for second place and $100 for third place. Prizes will be applied to winners’ student accounts through the Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid. Winners and selected honorable mentions will also be published in an anthology.

As part of the event, UNCW art students will create original artwork inspired by the submitted pieces, highlighting collaboration between writers and artists across campus. Contest rules, formatting guidelines and the submission form are available on the FlashLIT homepage.