Discover Top Book Publishing Companies in Minneapolis and San Francisco

Whether you're writing your debut novel, a memoir, or a nonfiction book, one of the biggest hurdles is finding the right publisher to bring your vision to life. Two U.S. cities that are quietly making a name for themselves in the world of independent and progressive publishing are Minneapolis and San Francisco.

While New York may be the traditional hub for big publishing houses, Minneapolis and San Francisco offer unique opportunities, especially for authors seeking a more personalized, creative, or mission-driven publishing experience. In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at the best book publishing companies in Minneapolis and a curated list of book publishers in San Francisco to help authors find the perfect home for their manuscripts.

Why Minneapolis Is a Rising Star in Book Publishing

Minneapolis is home to a vibrant literary scene supported by a culture that values creativity, social justice, and community engagement. With a strong public library system, high literacy rates, and substantial arts funding, Minneapolis has become a major force in the world of independent and nonprofit publishing.

Graywolf Press

Graywolf Press is perhaps the most prestigious independent publisher in Minneapolis. This nonprofit literary press has published some of the most powerful and award-winning voices in contemporary literature, including Maggie Nelson and Claudia Rankine. Graywolf specializes in literary fiction, creative nonfiction, and poetry. They’re known for their editorial excellence and commitment to bold, thought-provoking writing.

Best for: Literary authors seeking national recognition

How to submit: Annual open reading periods and selected contests

Milkweed Editions

Milkweed Editions is a nonprofit, mission-driven publisher that emphasizes works exploring environmental themes, social justice, and the human condition. Publishing fiction, nonfiction, and poetry, Milkweed is deeply committed to both literary quality and ecological responsibility. Many of their titles are printed on recycled paper, and they’ve supported emerging writers for decades.

Best for: Writers with a conscience and an eye for literary craft

How to submit: Open reading periods, fellowships, and prize submissions

Coffee House Press

Coffee House Press is known for publishing experimental, diverse, and culturally rich literature. With a keen eye for original voices and a passion for community engagement, Coffee House is one of the most forward-thinking publishers in the U.S. They are especially supportive of underrepresented voices and new perspectives.

Best for: Authors breaking literary norms

How to submit: Check their website for submission windows

University of Minnesota Press

University of Minnesota Press is an academic publisher with a strong emphasis on scholarly works, cultural studies, and critical theory. Though rooted in academia, they also publish accessible nonfiction for general audiences.

Best for: Scholars and nonfiction writers

How to submit: Proposal-based submissions

San Francisco’s Literary Spirit and Publisher Diversity

San Francisco’s publishing history is rich and rebellious. From the Beat Generation to today’s avant-garde authors, this city has always welcomed radical thinkers and creative risk-takers. San Francisco’s publishers reflect this spirit by embracing bold, diverse, and visually stunning publications.

City Lights Publishers

City Lights, founded by poet Lawrence Ferlinghetti, is an iconic institution in American publishing. They specialize in politically engaged nonfiction, poetry, and fiction from around the world. As both a bookstore and a publisher, City Lights has been the heartbeat of San Francisco’s literary culture for decades.

Best for: Authors with a message or a cause

How to submit: Submission guidelines are available on their website

Chronicle Books

Chronicle Books is one of the most recognized publishing houses in the lifestyle and visual book market. They publish everything from cookbooks to children's books to quirky pop culture titles. Known for their high production quality and eye-catching designs, Chronicle is perfect for authors with a creative edge.

Best for: Authors of lifestyle, design, children’s, or illustrated books

How to submit: Often works with literary agents; limited unsolicited submissions

McSweeney’s

Founded by author Dave Eggers, McSweeney’s is a literary publisher known for its unique, artistic books and quirky approach to storytelling. They publish literary fiction, essays, humor, and satire through various imprints and journals.

Best for: Literary fiction with a modern, offbeat twist

How to submit: Limited open calls and contests

Manic D Press

Manic D Press publishes subversive, alternative literature with a focus on LGBTQ+ themes, underground culture, and independent voices. Their catalog includes poetry, fiction, memoir, and even punk culture works.

Best for: Authors exploring identity, counterculture, or experimental narratives

How to submit: Open to unsolicited manuscripts

No Starch Press

For authors writing in tech, science, or education, No Starch Press is a standout choice. Known for books on hacking, coding, and computing, they publish easy-to-follow guides for tech-savvy audiences and educators.

Best for: Technical writers and educators

How to submit: Proposal submissions via their website

Heyday Books

Heyday is a Berkeley-based publisher with strong San Francisco roots, focusing on California history, Native American voices, and environmental issues. Their books are both educational and beautifully produced.

Best for: Regional nonfiction and cultural history

How to submit: Proposal guidelines available on their website

Choosing the Right Publisher for Your Work

When deciding where to submit your manuscript, it’s essential to align your vision with a publisher’s mission. Ask yourself:

Does the publisher align with my genre and voice?

Do they work with debut authors or only through agents?

Is their submission process open and transparent?

Do they offer editorial and marketing support?

Do their values reflect the themes of my book?

Researching the best book publishing companies in Minneapolis and reviewing a detailed list of book publishers in San Francisco can give you a strategic edge. These cities may not have the fame of New York’s publishing scene, but they offer rich literary ecosystems where new voices can thrive.

Final Thoughts

Both Minneapolis and San Francisco are shining beacons of independent publishing in the U.S. Minneapolis champions literary excellence, social consciousness, and sustainability, making it a haven for literary fiction and poetry. Meanwhile, San Francisco celebrates innovation, diversity, and artistic flair, ideal for authors who challenge norms and push boundaries.

Whether you're penning a heartfelt memoir, a revolutionary poetry collection, or a beautiful picture book, these cities are filled with publishers who are not only open to new voices but actively seeking them.

Do your research, follow submission guidelines carefully, and take the leap. Your manuscript could be the next great story to emerge from the creative forces of these two literary cities.