THE PRIZE
26.5 Acres of Maine Wilderness
The Land
26.5 acres of untouched Maine wilderness, deeded to the winner in full.
The Cabins
Three existing cabins on the property, included with the land transfer.
$25,000 Startup Funds
$25,000 provided to help you get started on the land.
PROPERTY FEATURES
What You're Winning
Three Cabins Included
Firewood Supply
Hunting Rights
Hiking & ATV Trails
Off-Grid Capable
Outbuildings on Property
Road Access
Homesteader's Paradise
Maine Wilderness
Wildlife & Nature
THE PROPERTY
26.5 Acres · Prentiss Township, Maine
THE PROMPT
"What makes you the best candidate for this land?"
50%
Your Answer
What would you actually do with 26.5 acres? Be specific, be real, be you.
25%
Grammar & Structure
Clear, well-organized writing that's easy to follow.
25%
Creativity & Style
Voice, originality, and the ability to make us feel something.
Submission Requirements
Word Count
500 – 1,500 words
File Format
PDF or DOCX
Entries
One entry per $150 payment (unlimited entries per person)
Judging
Anonymous — judges see entry tokens only
Open to legal U.S. residents 18+, excluding Arizona and Colorado. Void where prohibited. See Official Rules for full eligibility terms.
CONTEST TIMELINE
Mark Your Calendar
Aug 1
Contest Opens
Submissions accepted starting 12:00 AM EST
Nov 1
Contest Closes
All entries due by 11:59 PM EST
Nov 2026
Judging Period
Essays reviewed and scored anonymously
Mid-Nov 2026
Winner Announced
Winner selected within 2 weeks of contest close, per Official Rules
Aug 1
Contest Opens
Submissions accepted starting 12:00 AM EST
Nov 1
Contest Closes
All entries due by 11:59 PM EST
Nov 2026
Judging Period
Essays reviewed and scored anonymously
Mid-Nov 2026
Winner Announced
Winner selected within 2 weeks of contest close, per Official Rules