What is the primary focus of the Audio in Color grant?
The grant program funds the production of first self-published audiobooks in the romance genre. The author must not have self-published in audio previously. A list of winners from previous rounds can be found here.
What kind of book is eligible?
The nominated book must be a self-published romance novel (any subgenre is welcome).
Does the book have to be a new publication?
The book must not yet exist as an audiobook.
Can authors nominate their own books?
Yes, self-nominations are welcome and encouraged.
If my book was nominated in a prior round but not selected, can I re-submit it?
Yes, previously nominated books not selected in prior rounds may be re-submitted.
Do I have to disclose my personal identity or background as an author?
No, applicants and nominators do not need to disclose personal identity information. Selection is based on the content, cultural authenticity, and representation within the nominated book.
How do I nominate a title for consideration?
Simply complete the nomination form.
What legal agreements do I confirm upon submission?
By submitting the form, you certify and agree that all information provided is accurate, the nominated book has not been produced as an audiobook at the time of submission, and the author holds the rights necessary to produce an audiobook adaptation.
What happens after nominations are received?
After nominations are received, we review each submission to ensure it is complete, meets the genre requirements, and does not already have an audiobook attached. Eligible titles are then passed to our judging panel for the fun part of reading and often spirited discussions that lead to the selection of finalists. From there, the AiC board conducts a final review and selects the grantees.
What is the grant amount? Is this a cash award?
Up to $5000 for the production of the audiobook through Lyric Audiobooks, our production partner. This is not a cash award.
How many audiobooks will be produced in Round 4?
Up to Eight audiobooks will be produced during round 4.
What support will grantees receive during the production process?
Grantees will attend a webinar giving an overview of the casting, preparation, production and post-production process. The goal is that authors will be ready to continue self-producing audiobooks, with the confidence gained through this grant-supported production process. Authors will have an assigned Lyric Audiobooks producer throughout the process.
What support will grantees receive for their audiobook release?
Audio in Color provides dedicated support around the audiobook release. Our distribution partner is able to set firm release dates, allowing our partner PR firm, Milk & Cookies, to generate that all-important pre-release buzz. Authors will also have access to ALC (Advance Listener Copy) promotion through Must Love Audio. Our goal, again, is that grantees feel confident approaching their future promotional efforts with self-published audio.
What other opportunities may be offered to grantees?
Our program has won the support of Audible, Spotify, Libro.fm, and the romance audiobook community at large. Past grantees have been invited to industry events attended by Audio in Color, Lyric Audiobooks, and/or Milk & Cookies, to spotlight their work and help build their network at exclusive events connected to the signing such as author and agent hospitality suites.
What responsibilities do grantees have, once they agree to work with Audio in Color to produce their audiobook?
Please see the terms and conditions on the application form for more info.