Kids Comics Unite! is launching Pitchfest 2026, a juried competition for unpublished graphic novel projects aimed at kid or teen readers, giving competitors a chance at putting their unpublished graphic novel project in front of some of the most influential agents and editors in the industry. To kick things off, Janna Morishima, literary agent and founder of Kids Comics Unite, will be hosting a free Pitch Your Graphic Novel Like a Pro masterclass on January 31st. All creators are welcome.
Winning projects will be displayed in a searchable online gallery and shared widely with hundreds of agents, editors, art directors, and publishers. The top 50-rated comics from last year’s competition can be found here. Winners will be revealed at their live Showcase Event, where there will be opportunities to book a one-on-one pitch session with a juror who has reviewed your work. The gallery of winners and runner-ups will then be promoted to hundreds of agents, editors, and art directors across the industry. Many past winners have gotten agents and book deals.
Registration will be open from February 12th to February 23rd, 2026, and winners will be announced on April 25th at their live event. There is an entrance fee of $120, but students, international students, and those who are experiencing financial hardships are eligible for a 50% discount off the regular entrance fee. Entrance guidelines and more information can be found here. You can also keep up to date on their Instagram.