Cultureword is a writing development organisation based in Manchester, providing opportunities for new and aspiring writers to develop their talent and potential.

Cultureword deliver a dynamic programme of creative writing and literature events including open mics, festivals, workshops, author signings and more. As a National Portfolio Organisation they receive funding from Arts Council England and the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

The National Black and Asian Writers Conference is a key biennial event platforming crucial discussion and debate about the state of the UK’s publishing industry and representation for Global Majority writers.

Cultureword support emerging writers on their journey to publication through both in-house opportunities as well as a broad network of connections and partnerships to help writers succeed.

Cultureword is, above all, a thriving community. The writers collective Identity Live! have a growing reputation on the Manchester scene for captivating poignant performances.

Cultureword rebranded from Commonword to Cultureword at the beginning of 2025. Commonword started in the late 1970s with the aim of offering working class writers the chance to write their own stories using their own voices. Cultureword, set-up in 1986, was a programme dedicated to Black and Asian writers founded by Lemn Sissay.