#Japan #Tokyo #Kodansha #CLIP STUDIO PAINT #KMA AWARD

CLIP STUDIO PAINT Partners with Kodansha

In an exciting collaboration, Celsys’ CLIP STUDIO PAINT has announced its sponsorship of the prestigious KMA AWARD: MANGAKA DISCOVERY, a global manga award organized by Kodansha. This initiative aims to uncover and promote the talent of aspiring manga creators from all over the world, regardless of their nationality or experience level.

Overview of KMA AWARD: MANGAKA DISCOVERY

The KMA AWARD serves as an official global platform under the umbrella of KODANSHA MANGA ACADEMY (KMA), designed to discover the next generation of manga artists. This contest places a strong emphasis on recognizing potential over completed works, encouraging creators to showcase their original talents without the constraints of experience. All submissions will be carefully reviewed by Kodansha’s team of editors from seven different comic divisions, who will evaluate the likelihood of professional serialization success for each piece.

Application Details

The application period for the award runs from April 20, 2026, to July 22, 2026 (JST). Creators from around the globe are invited to submit their original manga works, ranging from 8 to 60 pages, in either Japanese or English. Best of all, there is no application fee, making this an accessible opportunity for creative minds everywhere.

Awards and Recognition

The main award, Grand Prize, comes with a monetary reward of 300,000 yen and an invitation to the awards ceremony in Tokyo, with travel and accommodation covered by Kodansha. Additionally, the winning entry will be published on Kodansha's digital manga platforms, K MANGA and Comic DAYS, ensuring wide visibility for their work. Winners will also receive support from a designated editor, who will act as a creative partner, guiding them through the production process free of charge.

For those who demonstrate exceptional skill but do not receive the Grand Prize, there are encouragement awards that include selected feedback from Kodansha’s editorial team and a chance to connect with a dedicated editor.

About CLIP STUDIO PAINT

CLIP STUDIO PAINT is a versatile application used by over 60 million creators worldwide for illustrations, manga, webtoons, and animation. It supports numerous devices including Windows, macOS, iPad, iPhone, Android, and Chromebooks, making it accessible to a broad audience. Renowned for its intuitive drawing experience and extensive features, it appeals to both entry-level users and seasoned professionals alike. Celsys aims to support the vibrant journey of creators through tools and platforms that enhance their artistic endeavors.

For more information about applying for the KMA AWARD: MANGAKA DISCOVERY, visit Kodansha Manga Academy.

To learn more about CLIP STUDIO PAINT, visit the official website. Celsys is committed to empowering creators in the burgeoning creator economy, ensuring a colorful world where individual creativity shines.

Contact for Inquiries

For further details, media inquiries can be directed to the public relations team at Celsys:
Email: [email protected]

Conclusion

This exciting collaboration between Celsys and Kodansha signifies a commitment to nurturing global talent in the manga industry. As aspiring creators gear up to showcase their work, the KMA AWARD stands as a beacon of opportunity, fostering creativity and innovation across borders.