for people who make.

Opportunities

Free Art, Design & Photography Competitions

Competitions with no entry fee in illustration, graphic design, photography, fine art, craft and design, with deadlines and prizes checked against each official site. Everything here is free to enter, sorted by deadline so the ones closing soonest come first.

24 open now · next deadline 1 Nov 2026

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Questions

Are free competitions legitimate?
Many are run by respected institutions, festivals, brands and foundations that fund the prizes themselves. Check who organises the competition, whether past winners are published and what rights you give; every listing here links to the official site.
Why would a competition be free to enter?
Organisers cover the costs because the competition serves another purpose: promoting a festival or brand, finding new talent, supporting a cause or building a collection. That is why reading the terms on usage rights matters more than the fee.
What should I check in the terms of a free competition?
How the organiser may use your work, for how long and whether commercial use is included. A fair competition asks only for the right to promote the competition and credits you; be careful with terms that transfer copyright or allow unlimited use.
Are free competitions harder to win?
Free entry often attracts more entries, so competition can be strong. Specialist themes, local or student categories and a tight focus on the brief improve your chances.
How often is this list updated?
New free competitions are added every week, and every listing shows the date its details were last checked against the official site. Closed competitions move to the bottom of the page.

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