The BPMA in partnership with Comic Relief have created a competition, exclusively for BPMA members, to design a brand-new item of merchandise for Comic Relief.

The Challenge

Comic Relief are seeking an innovative and new item of merchandise for their range.

Your mission is to design a brand-new item of merchandise that captures the essence of Comic Relief and stands as a year-round symbol of its work. The goal is to create something original and impactful that resonates with people across the UK and helps spark a nationwide moment of connection, fun, and support.

The product should embody Comic Relief’s commitment to social change, fun, and philanthropy while being versatile enough to be embraced throughout the year, beyond the traditional Red Nose Day and Sport Relief campaigns. Think about what could inspire communities, encourage fundraising, and leave a lasting impression.

What We’re Looking For

Challenge participants are encouraged to think outside the box, while ensuring that the product is easily recognisable and can become a symbol of Comic Relief’s work in addressing poverty in the UK and around the world.

Designs are encouraged to consider:

  • Sustainability

  • Inclusivity & Accessibility

  • Humour & Joy

  • Recognisability

Comic Relief already have a wide portfolio of existing merchandise, and this competition is about innovation, so the following items are excluded from entry: Red Nose (any variations of), t-shirts, sweatshirts, hats, water bottles, tote bags, mugs, notebooks, dog bandanas, phone cases, umbrellas, zip up pencil pouches, aprons, pin badges.

The Prize

A shortlist of 8 finalists will be selected to pitch their ideas in person to a judging panel from Comic Relief and the BPMA – in the Dragon’s Den filming studio.

The winner will be chosen on the day and may enter commercial discussions with Comic Relief, with the BPMA managing the relationship to protect trade exclusivity.

Key Dates

  • Deadline for entries: 30 September 2025

  • Shortlisting: 1–10 October 2025

  • Finalist pitch event: Late October / Early November 2025 (Date TBC)

Judging Criteria

The judging panel will assess entries based on:

  • Creativity and Innovation – Is the design original and unique? Does it offer a fresh concept?

  • Recognisability – Is the product instantly recognisable as a symbol of Comic Relief and suitable for year-round use?

  • Engagement and Fundraising Potential – Does the product encourage public participation and fundraising, fostering long-term support?

  • Sustainability and Social Responsibility – Is the product environmentally sustainable and ethically designed?

  • Practicality and Functionality – Is the product practical, durable, and easy to use?

  • Humour and Fun Element –  Does the product capture Comic Relief’s fun and humorous spirit?

  • Inclusivity and Accessibility – Is the product inclusive and accessible to a wide audience?

How to Enter

Please submit your design entry as a PDF to: marketing@bpma.co.uk

Your entry must include:

  • Your business name and primary contact

  • A description of your design concept

  • A rationale explaining why your product fits the brief and deserves to win

Want to support your entry with a sample?
Please email us in advance to arrange delivery before the deadline.

Terms & Conditions

  • Open to BPMA members only

  • No obligation to produce the winning item

  • IP discussions will be held in good faith with Comic Relief for winning entries

  • Finalists agree to take part in publicity related to the challenge

For full terms and detailed brief, click here.

Got questions?

Contact Phil Goodman at phil.goodman@bpma.co.uk

Let’s show the power of our industry – and support a fantastic cause while we’re at it.