Arkbound’s Publishing Pathway Fellowship
The Publishing Pathway Fellowship was launched by Arkbound to offer meaningful, long-term experience in the world of small press publishing. Designed as a low-hours, volunteer role spread over 12 months, it offers hands-on experience across editing, marketing, and distribution—ideal for building a strong first publishing CV. Fellows support the development of books by authors with lived experience of disadvantage, helping amplify voices often excluded from the industry.
“volunteering with Arkbound has been a manageable and fulfilling stepping stone towards my goals.”
– A quote from Jennifer, who is supporting the publication of
Talking to a Pie About Walking the Dog by Katy Fraser
“it’s given me hands-on experience, helps me build professional skills, and lets me connect with people in the industry”
– A quote from Anna, who is supporting the publication of
The In-Between by Molly O’Dowd
Social & community impact
The Publishing Pathway Fellowship supports Arkbound’s mission by helping to amplify powerful books that focus on urgent social and environmental issues. Fellows take on key industry-standard tasks across publicity, marketing, editorial, design, and distribution, working under the guidance of the Publisher to bring these titles to local communities and independent bookshops. Their efforts increase the visibility and impact of books by authors whose voices might otherwise be overlooked, contributing to positive social change both locally and nationally.
Career pathways
In addition to supporting these authors, the fellowship provides a practical, hands-on pathway into small press publishing careers. Unlike typical internships focused on one department, this programme offers experience across the full publishing cycle—from acquisition through to post-production. Designed as a flexible, volunteer role with low weekly hours over 12 months, it’s ideal for anyone looking to build a well-rounded publishing CV while balancing work, study, or other commitments. This approach equips Fellows with real-world skills and networks to support their future success in the publishing industry.
Examples of Fellow Tasks & shadowing
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Assist with manuscript review, author bios, and marketing summaries. Support contract preparation and complete market research assignments to help evaluate new titles.
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Conduct research for fundraising efforts and help create promotional materials. Manage social media content for platforms like Instagram, LinkedIn, and Facebook, and assist with fundraising communications.
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Research cover design trends and provide input on design concepts. Review manuscripts for formatting details related to typesetting and style.
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Work closely with editors to review and proofread manuscripts, prepare files for typesetting, and perform final quality checks before publication.
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Contribute to promotional planning, develop marketing outlines and email templates, and create social media content to raise awareness of Arkbound titles.
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Conduct targeted research to identify independent bookshops and niche outlets interested in Arkbound titles. Assist with outreach and communication to support sales efforts. Fellows will also have the opportunity to observe and shadow the publisher during distribution activities to gain hands-on industry insight.
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Help monitor book reviews and press coverage, and assist with ongoing promotion of backlist titles.
Interested?
Fill out the form below and we’ll chat!