Spotify offers opportunity for independent authors through new publishing program
Independent authors can now get their audiobooks published through a new Spotify publishing program and get their stories heard.
Spotify’s new publishing program
As part of its ongoing effort to support creators, Spotify is now inviting independent authors to submit their audiobooks for consideration. If selected, Spotify will publish the work, manage production, and offer both an advance payment and royalties. This initiative follows Spotify’s broader commitment to helping artists and creators earn a living through its platform, with the company having paid out a record-breaking $10 billion to the music industry in 2024, according to its latest Loud & Clear report.
Spotify Audiobooks has already partnered with established publishers and authors to license and produce hundreds of titles. Now, this program lowers the barrier to entry for audiobook creators, providing an accessible way for writers to bring their work to a global audience.
Who can apply? Submission requirements explained
The program is open authors worldwide, though there are a few key requirements:
- Stories must be written in English, and tailored for audio format.
- Each author must control the audio rights for the story in submission.
- The work should be a short novel (novelette) ranging from approximately 10,000 to 20,000 words.
- Submissions should sound great out loud, featuring engaging characters, settings and dialogue that compels the listener.
- The stories should focus on three genres: romance, mystery/thriller, or sci-fi/fantasy.
- Cross-genre works like romantic fantasy, dark romance thriller, mystery sci-fi or psychological thriller are also encouraged.
- Spotify will not accept erotica or children’s content.
Submissions will be reviewed on a rolling basis, allowing authors to apply at any time.
What happens if your audiobook is selected?
For submissions that are accepted, Spotify will make an offer for your audiobook rights and publish the audiobook. In return, Spotify will handle the production and distribution of the audiobook while providing an advance and ongoing royalties. However, authors will retain control over their work in other formats, such as eBook and paper editions, allowing them to market and distribute their story across multiple platforms.
For independent authors looking to break into the audiobook space, this program presents a significant opportunity to gain exposure and earn revenue through Spotify’s global listener base. If you’re interested in submitting your work or want to learn more about the program, check out Spotify’s official submission page here.