1. The contest is open to the public.
2. Eligible entrants include writers, poets, and artists.
3. All entries must be submitted in English.
4. Prior publication history does not affect eligibility.
5. Entrants must be at least 18 years old to receive the grand prize.
6. The contest is open worldwide with no geographic restrictions.
7. Entrants must hold full rights to their submitted work, including print and electronic rights.
8. Most genres are accepted; pornographic content is not permitted.
9. Entries must be original and unpublished in any copyrighted newspaper, magazine, book, or other medium. School publications are allowed.
10. Entries must be submitted digitally through [https://www.opencontractchallenge.com/](https://www.opencontractchallenge.com/) no later than 11:59 p.m. PST on Thursday, April 11, 2026.
11. Only digital submissions will be accepted.
12. A panel of writers and editors will judge the contest. Tate Dousette will select the Grand Prize winner.
13. For co-authored entries, any monetary award is the responsibility of the co-authors to divide among themselves.
14. Winners are responsible for all applicable taxes.
15. Any entrant who engages in harassment, including sexual harassment, or is abusive toward staff or contestants will be disqualified and may be banned permanently.
16. **Plagiarism and Fraud**: Entries must be original. Any work found to be plagiarized, improperly generated, or submitted under false pretenses will be disqualified.
17. **Claiming Prizes**: Winners must respond within 14 days of notification. Failure to respond may result in forfeiture and selection of an alternate winner.
18. Attempts to negotiate prize terms with JayZoMon Dark Myth staff may result in immediate disqualification.
19. The Director reserves the right to add one “Wild Card” contestant after Round One (Pitch), increasing the total to 11 contestants.
20. By submitting an entry, entrants grant JayZoMon Dark Myth a non-exclusive, royalty-free license to display, promote, and publish the work in connection with the contest.
21. All judge decisions are final. Submission constitutes acceptance of these rules.