National Novel Writing Month, also known as NaNoWriMo, is a month-long creative writing challenge that takes place every November. During the month participants from all over the world are challenged to write a 50,000 word first draft of a novel.
There is no charge to take part in the challenge, although it is all run by a not for profit organisation and participants have the option to donate to the cause and purchase official NaNoWriMo merchandise, all profits from which are funnelled back into the program. The organisation relies on these donations to keep participation free of charge and pay for things such as web hosting, resources and classroom kits.
Once participants have signed up they receive access to support and encouragement to help them hit their writing goals; this includes access to a range of articles and tools to assist in planning their novel, the option to join a local group of writers and meet up for in-person writing events, online forums and facebook groups. Published authors also offer mentorship through articles and pep talks.
If you feel that there is a story inside you just waiting to be told and would like to get more involved, visit www.nanowrimo.org for more information or to sign up.