If you’re a TV writer looking to make your breakthrough in 2026, you’re entering a highly competitive landscape, but the right screenwriting competition can open real doors. From securing representation to landing general meetings with agents, producers, or showrunners, contests remain one of the most accessible ways to get your work in front of the people who matter.
The key is choosing the right contests: the ones with industry credibility, strong alumni success stories, and categories tailored specifically to television writing. Below, you’ll find the best TV writing competitions to submit to in 2026, including both specialized TV-pilot contests and major all-around competitions that consistently discover emerging TV writers. We also wrote a general article on the best screenwriting contests to submit to in 2026 if you want to check it out.
1. The Golden Script Competition
One of the most prestigious international contests – and a top choice for TV writers.
The Golden Script Competition has risen to the top tier of screenwriting competitions thanks to its strong reputation, consistent industry connections, and global reach. While it includes categories for features and shorts, its TV-pilot category is one of its most competitive and respected.
Golden Script stands out because of its track record of connecting winners and finalists with production companies, managers, and agencies. Many alumni have gone on to secure deals, options, or mentorship opportunities with producers across Europe, the UK, and the U.S. With judges representing a wide range of production backgrounds, this competition pairs emerging writers with industry readers like Jessica Sharzer (American Horror Story), who understand current TV market demands.
If you’re submitting only a handful of contests in 2026, Golden Script should be at or near the top of your list. Its combination of prestige, exposure, and international orientation makes it extremely valuable.
2. Script Pipeline TV Writing Contest
The best TV-specific competition for long-term development and industry access.
Script Pipeline is known throughout Hollywood for discovering talent and connecting writers with management and production companies. Their TV Writing Contest focuses exclusively on episodes, pilots, and series concepts, making it ideal if you’re targeting television specifically rather than feature film.
Pipeline excels at more than awarding prizes; they’re known for actively championing writers they believe in. Finalists often receive ongoing development guidance, introductions to managers, and help refining their brand as a writer. Past winners have gone on to staff on shows, secure representation at major agencies, and sell pilot material.
For TV writers with long-term goals and a desire for mentorship, Script Pipeline is one of the most strategic competitions to enter in 2026.
3. Austin Film Festival Screenplay Competition (AFF)
A writer-focused festival that pairs competition success with real-world networking.
The Austin Film Festival is often called “the writers’ festival” for good reason. AFF offers a unique combination of competitive prestige and community access. The screenplay competition accepts a variety of categories, including Drama Pilot, Comedy Pilot, and Digital Series, making it an excellent choice for TV-focused writers.
What sets AFF apart is the conference that runs alongside the competition. Even semifinalists and second-rounders get value from attending: panels, workshops, networking mixers, and opportunities to meet executives in a relaxed, less intimidating environment. While winning is great, the true strength of the festival lies in the people you meet.
If you’re serious about building a career and want to interact directly with producers, writers, and showrunners, AFF is worth entering, and worth attending if you place.
4. PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
A long-standing, respected contest with dedicated TV categories.
PAGE has been around for over 20 years and remains one of the most recognized competitions in the industry. With judging panels made up of development executives, producers, and managers, it offers a consistent pipeline into professional feedback and visibility.
PAGE includes TV Drama and TV Comedy categories, which tend to be highly competitive. Though PAGE is broader than some of the contests on this list, it has a strong history of finalists going on to secure representation or land writing assignments.
For writers looking for a venerable competition with name recognition and a high volume of industry readers, PAGE remains a worthwhile 2026 submission.
5. Final Draft Big Break Contest
A major competition with high visibility and access to industry meetings.
Big Break is run by Final Draft, the screenwriting software used throughout Hollywood, and continues to attract thousands of entries each year. The contest includes categories for TV drama and comedy pilots, making it a strong option for television writers.
Winners receive cash prizes, a trip to Los Angeles, and a series of industry meetings. Finalists also benefit from visibility on platforms like Coverfly, which may lead to manager requests even before results are finalized.
While Big Break is highly competitive, the outreach involved (press announcements, winner showcases, industry introductions) gives strong scripts an excellent chance of getting noticed. If you’re confident your pilot is polished and competition-ready, Big Break is a valuable 2026 target.
Final Thoughts
2026 is shaping up to be a competitive but opportunity-rich year for emerging TV writers. Whether you’re writing a prestige drama pilot, a single-cam comedy, or a character-driven limited series, the competitions above offer real exposure, meaningful relationships, and the possibility of launching your career. If you’re looking for prestige and international reach, The Golden Script Competition is a must. If you want targeted support and development, Script Pipeline’s TV Writing Contest is ideal. For writers who value in-person networking and community, the Austin Film Festival stands out. And if you’re aiming for high visibility, PAGE and Final Draft’s Big Break remain excellent options.
If you want to break into television, choose a handful of the contests that align most closely with your goals, and submit early to save on fees. With a standout pilot and a smart contest strategy, this could be the year your screenwriting career truly begins.
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