Apila Ediciones - First Printing Award 2026

• Apila Ediciones

• Deadline: February 15th, 2026

• Theme: Printing

• Prize: €4,000 + Publication

• Entry Fees: Free

• REGISTRATION: CLICK HERE

Apila’s First Printing Award 2026 extends a warm invitation to emerging illustrators to take part in one of the most respected international contests for unpublished picture books. Since its foundation in 2013, the award has carved out a distinctive identity as a springboard for illustrators seeking to bring their stories to young readers for the first time. Hosted by Apila Ediciones in collaboration with the distinguished Escuela Superior de Diseño de Aragón, this unique initiative identifies and supports creative talent that has yet to see their work formally published. The award serves as more than just a prize—it’s a complete professional development journey designed to empower illustrators to realize their potential and establish their voice in the competitive world of children’s literature.

The 2026 edition builds on the award’s long-standing commitment to artistic quality and creative originality. With an emphasis on mentorship, the competition offers selected participants personalized guidance from industry experts and seasoned educators. Apila Ediciones, with its deep roots in publishing, oversees every aspect of book production—from editing and layout to design, printing, and distribution—while the Escuela Superior de Diseño de Aragón offers critical feedback, hands-on workshops, and design refinement. This holistic approach transforms a promising concept into a polished, publishable work, ensuring that first-time authors not only debut with confidence but also gain essential knowledge to navigate future opportunities in the literary world.