Transcamp merch DESIGN contest

We’re excited to launch our Merch Design Contest to celebrate the creativity and talent within the trans community! We’re looking for unique and nature inspired designs that will be featured on our upcoming merchandise line. This is an opportunity for trans artists to showcase their work and be a part of TransCamp’s fundraising efforts.

Compensation:

Profit from merchandise sales will be split 50/50 between TransCamp and the three selected artists. The three artists will receive an equal share of the 50% profit or a guaranteed $200 minimum (whichever is higher). Since, this is our first time, this model will be in place for the first three months and reevaluated thereafter.

 Submission & Selection Process:

• Submission Period: April 27, 2025 – June 1, 2025
• Board Voting: All submissions will be anonymized before being shared with the board for the initial selection process. 
• Community Voting: The finalist designs will be posted on our TransCamp Instagram for public voting. Artists will be tagged, and the community will vote for their favorites within the allotted timeframe.
• Final Selection: The top 3 designs with the most votes will be chosen to represent our merchandise line. The final selection will include at least one “stealth” design and one design with  the TransCamp brand name.
• Winners will be announced on June 15, 2025

Submission Requirements:

• Artists must identify as part of the trans community.
• Ownership: Art must be your own original work. Artists must own the rights to reproduce and sell the design.

This contest is all about showcasing trans talent and making a meaningful statement through art. We can’t wait to see the incredible designs you come up with! Good luck and let your creativity shine! 🏳️‍⚧️

If you have any questions, please email us at [email protected]

General Questions

• Who can enter the contest?

Any adult who identifies as trans* is welcome to submit, but we especially encourage former transcampers to participate! * This includes folks who identify as trans masculine, trans feminine, nonbinary, Two-Spirit, genderqueer, genderfluid, gender non-conforming, or any other trans identity.

• • Is there an entry fee?

Nope! It’s completely free to enter.

• How many designs can I submit?

You may submit up to 3 designs. At least one design must include the word ‘TransCamp’ NOTE: it’s one word with a capital T & C. Additionally, “Stealth” designs (those that are not overtly queer or trans-referencing) are welcome.

• • What is the submission deadline?

June 1, 2025 11:59 PM Pacific Standard Time

Design Guidelines & File Requirements

• What are the design guidelines?

Designs should reflect the spirit of TransCamp: Trans Joy, community and resilience. We encourage nature-themed artwork. Submissions must be original and meet file guidelines. No AI-generated art, profanity, political party affiliations, or political candidate references.

• What kinds of artwork are accepted?

Original digital art only (no photographs, hand-drawn, or hand-painted artwork).

• What file formats are acceptable?

Accepted file types: .AI, .EPS, .PDF, .PNG, or .JPG.

• What are the file size and image dimension requirements?

Maximum file size: 10MB.

Minimum image size: 200px by 200px.

• Are there any color limitations? 

Maximum colors: 8 colors (no gradients)

• Is there a specific color palette I should use in my design?

We’ve put together an optional color palette to help you get inspired and stay on-brand—feel free to use it as a reference! That said, you’re not required to stick to it.

 

After Submission

• What happens after submission?

All submissions will be anonymized before being shared with the board for the initial selection process. The finalist designs will be posted on our TransCamp Instagram for public voting. Artists will be tagged, and the community will vote for their favorites within the allotted timeframe.

• When will the winners be announced?

Finalists will be announced via TransCamp’s Instagram on June 15, 2025 

• Will I be notified even if I don’t win?

Yes, all participants will be contacted once the contest results are finalized.

• What happens if my design is selected?

If your design is selected, we’ll reach out with any requested edits from TransCamp leadership before getting a copy of the final file of your design and signing the formal agreements. If not selected, your design remains yours, and we won’t use it in any way.

• Do I still own my design even if it’s selected?

Yes, you retain ownership of your design. If your design is selected, TransCamp will use it on merchandise and promotional materials, with credit to you.

• What happens if I decide to pull my design?

You can withdraw your design at any time before winners are selected. After that, we will retain licensing rights based on the agreement if your design is chosen.

 

Compensation & Recognition

• What is the compensation model?

Profit from merchandise sales will be split 50/50 between TransCamp and the three selected artists. The three artists will receive an equal share of the 50% profit or a guaranteed $200 minimum (whichever is higher). 

• What happens after the first 3 months that my design is used?

Since this is our first time piloting this fundraiser, the compensation model previously stated will be in place for the first three months and reevaluated afterwards. 

• • Will I be credited for my work?

Always. Your name (and optional social handle) will appear wherever the design is featured or sold.

 

Design Use

• Can I sell my design elsewhere after the contest?

Yes! All non-selected designs remain the property of the artist, and you’re free to use or sell your work however you’d like. The only exception is if your design includes our organization’s name, TransCamp. Since TransCamp is a copyrighted name, any designs that feature it can’t be sold or used commercially without our permission. If selected, we’ll outline specific terms in a separate agreement.

• Can I include logos, slogans, or copyrighted content?

No. Only original work will be accepted—no copyrighted images, slogans, or third-party trademarks.