Image: Manga-Preis "KMA AWARD:MANGAKA DISCOVERY" Visual
AMBot | 04/20/2026 | Reading Time: 2 Min.
The Japanese publisher Kodansha has launched a new manga award aimed at creatives from all over the world. The "KMA AWARD: MANGAKA DISCOVERY" is the publisher's largest attempt yet to foster international talent.
Unlike many other competitions, flawless execution is not the main focus here. The award follows the belief in seeking "potential over perfection." Anyone can participate, regardless of nationality or prior experience. The only requirement is an original manga story with a length between 8 and 60 pages, submitted in English or Japanese.
The application is free and is handled via the official "Kodansha Manga Academy" platform. The submission deadline is July 22, 2026, at 23:59 (Japan time). Kodansha's seven manga editorial departments will review each submission and assess whether the work has the potential for a professional serial publication.
In addition to a prize money of 300,000 yen (approximately 2,000 euros) for the grand prize, winners can look forward to exciting prospects: They will be published on the digital platforms "K MANGA" and "Comic DAYS" and will receive a dedicated editor as a creative partner. Furthermore, Kodansha will cover travel and accommodation costs for an invitation to the award ceremony in Tokyo. Even the top 100 submissions will receive individual feedback from the publisher's editors. The competition is supported by the software company Celsys, which, among other things, is providing licenses for "Clip Studio Paint" as an additional prize.
Unlike many other competitions, flawless execution is not the main focus here. The award follows the belief in seeking "potential over perfection." Anyone can participate, regardless of nationality or prior experience. The only requirement is an original manga story with a length between 8 and 60 pages, submitted in English or Japanese.
The application is free and is handled via the official "Kodansha Manga Academy" platform. The submission deadline is July 22, 2026, at 23:59 (Japan time). Kodansha's seven manga editorial departments will review each submission and assess whether the work has the potential for a professional serial publication.
In addition to a prize money of 300,000 yen (approximately 2,000 euros) for the grand prize, winners can look forward to exciting prospects: They will be published on the digital platforms "K MANGA" and "Comic DAYS" and will receive a dedicated editor as a creative partner. Furthermore, Kodansha will cover travel and accommodation costs for an invitation to the award ceremony in Tokyo. Even the top 100 submissions will receive individual feedback from the publisher's editors. The competition is supported by the software company Celsys, which, among other things, is providing licenses for "Clip Studio Paint" as an additional prize.
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This article was originally published in German. It was translated with technical support and editorially reviewed before publication.
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