License This! competition

21 - 23 May 2024

Mandalay Bay Convention Center

Are you looking to enter the world of licensing with an unlicensed brand? From illustrators, publishers, designers, or animators, the License This! competition provides opportunity to secure new deals or agent representation to those looking to enter the world of licensing.

Submissions and judging will be entirely virtual, with (1) winner and (3) shortlisted applicants. The winner will be announced on the first day of Licensing Expo at the Opening Keynote session, amongst other prizes. Judging hosted by the License Global editorial team will be based on each brand’s level of originality, licensing potential and alignment with today’s marketplace.

Winners will be announced at Licensing Expo.

How Does the Process Work?

Entries for the competition are free of charge; applicants are required to complete a submission form which includes a written overview, video overview, and detailed vision about why the idea would be suitable for licensing.
Entry deadline: April 17, 2023 at 5:00 pm CT.
All applications are reviewed by a panel of judges made up entirely of License Global editorial team.
Contestants are encouraged to attend Licensing Expo where the winner and (3) shortlisted participants will be announced.
The winner and shortlisted participants will receive support outlined below to help them develop.

THE PRIZE

WINNER

Valued at $7000

Announced on stage at the Opening Keynote on Day One at Licensing Expo
Feature in Licensing Expo Show Daily
Promotional support from Licensing Expo & Licensing Global throughout the show and year ahead
Free of charge turnkey booth at Licensing Expo (100 sq ft)
One year Licensing International membership
One year Products of Change membership
Pop-up banner display at Licensing Expo
Exclusive interview of the winning brand, featured on LicenseGlobal.com

SHORTLISTED

Announced on stage at the Opening Keynote on Day One at Licensing Expo
Feature in Licensing Expo Show Daily
Pop-up banner display at Licensing Expo

FAQ

In order to be considered, entrants must own a new artwork, brand or character that has no merchandising deals already in place or pending and have not been licensed on more than two products prior to Jan. 1, 2023.
Examples of submission categories include: illustrators, publishers, designers, or animators.

Winning License This! has been literally life changing for me and my business - it’s amazing! I’ve had the best advice and guidance you really couldn’t buy from all the panel, who have introduced me to so many new contacts and opportunities I wouldn’t have had a clue about otherwise, I’ve learned so much so fast! I nearly didn’t enter as I thought I wasn’t established enough to get through, but everyone has been so excited by my art and brands, it’s been really positive and supportive."

Sophie Jonas-Hill, License This! Winner 2021