Little exists to support the work of emerging illustrators in a competitive and challenging professional environment. Many graduates feel unprepared for the world of freelance work, and opportunities to profile portfolios are rare. Few platforms exist to showcase their work to clients and agents, and competition initiatives frequently offer little real professional development. The House of Illustration is committed to developing and promoting emerging illustration talent.

The House of Illustration is working with a highly respected publisher, offering a professional prize in the form of a real commission. To ensure it reaches the broadest range of entrants, the competition is easily accessible online and to ensure that students of illustration are reached, the competition is promoted via higher education colleges. Tutors are encouraged to make the competition part of their teaching, and master-classes will encourage and support students with career preparation.