The Macmillan Prize for Illustration 2025

• Pan Macmillan

• Deadline: April 25th, 2025

• Prize: £1,000 + Publication

• Category: Illustration

• Entry Fees: Free

• REGISTRATION: CLICK HERE

The Macmillan Prize for Illustration is an esteemed award dedicated to recognizing and encouraging unpublished children’s picture book illustrators. It provides a platform for emerging talent to showcase their creativity and gain industry recognition.

For the 2025 competition, submissions are officially open, and applicants have the opportunity to submit their digital entries until 5:30 PM on April 25, 2025. It is important to note that only digital submissions will be accepted—physical entries will not be considered.

A distinguished panel of judges, including representatives from Macmillan as well as independent guest judges, will carefully evaluate the submissions to select the winners.

First established in 1985, the prize is celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2025. Over the years, it has provided aspiring illustrators with an important stepping stone into the publishing industry, encouraging students and non-professional artists to refine their skills and develop their careers. Many winners and shortlisted illustrators have gone on to achieve remarkable success, with some becoming household names in children’s publishing. Among the notable past winners and celebrated talents discovered through this competition are Emily Gravett, Lucy Cousins, Ross Collins, Bethan Woollvin, and Morag Hood.

By fostering new creative voices, the Macmillan Prize for Illustration continues to make a significant impact on the world of children's literature, offering a unique opportunity for fresh talent to break into the publishing industry.