Why I Don’t Do Design Contests (Anymore)
It happens about three times a month.
A well-meaning friend sends me a link to a design competition with a note like,
“Saw this and immediately thought of you!”
And honestly? That part never gets old. It’s thoughtful. It’s kind. And most of the time, the organizations behind these contests are ones I genuinely admire—environmental groups, nonprofits, community programs, animal rescues. Exactly the kind of people I would love to work with.
But at this point in my career—almost 20 years in—I just don’t do design competitions anymore.
It’s Not Personal (and It’s Not Malicious)
I don’t believe companies run design contests to take advantage of designers.
In most cases, I think it’s the opposite.
Design contests are often created as a way to:
Engage a community
Generate excitement around a project
Gather a wide range of creative ideas
Offer someone a chance to contribute and be recognized
And yes—there is usually a prize. Somewhere between $150 and $1,000 in many cases. That part matters. The intention is not to exploit—it’s to reward.
But here’s where it gets complicated.
The Part That Doesn’t Sit Right
When you run a design contest, you’re asking an unknown number of people to do real work—for free—with no guarantee of compensation.
Ten people might submit.
Or fifty.
Or a hundred.
Only one gets paid.
Everyone else has donated their time, creative energy, experience, and skill… for nothing.
And that’s the part I can’t align with anymore.
Because design isn’t just “making something cool.”
It’s problem-solving.
It’s strategy.
It’s years (and years) of learning how to create something that actually works—in print, online, in real life.
The Professional Reality
Here’s the honest truth:
For the amount many organizations offer as a contest prize, they could hire a professional designer.
And when they do, they get:
A collaborative process (not a guessing game)
Files that are actually print-ready
A designer who understands production, scalability, and brand consistency
A result that’s built with intention—not luck
It’s not just about paying someone—it’s about getting the right outcome.
Why I Opt Out
At this stage in my career, my work isn’t speculative.
I don’t create full design solutions without a contract, a clear scope, and a collaborative relationship behind it. That’s not about ego—it’s about sustainability.
This is my profession. It’s how I support my family. It’s the result of decades of experience.
And I’ve learned that where I put my energy matters.
Where Design Contests Do Make Sense
That said—I’m not anti–design contest.
They absolutely have a place.
In fact, I encourage my students to participate in them all the time.
Why?
Because contests are great for:
Building a portfolio
Practicing how to respond to a creative brief
Working within real-world constraints
Gaining confidence and visibility
When you’re learning, experimenting, or trying to break into the industry—they can be incredibly valuable.
A Better Way Forward
If you’re an organization thinking about running a design contest, I’d gently offer this:
If you have the budget—even a modest one—consider hiring a designer instead.
You’ll get a better process.
A stronger result.
And you’ll be directly supporting someone’s livelihood.
And if you do run a contest, just be mindful of what you’re asking for—and from how many people.
Final Thought
So if you’ve ever sent me a design contest link—thank you. Truly.
It means you thought of me. And that’s something I never take lightly.
Just know… I’ll probably cheer it on from the sidelines these days.
