Design the Movement: Swag and Merch Design Contest
Got an idea that belongs on a t-shirt?
Help shape the next wave of Pro-Choice NC merch. You don't need to be an artist or designer to submit a slogan, graphic, or big idea. Polished masterpiece? Messy sketch? Shower thought? If it belongs on merch, we want to see it!
Submissions accepted through Friday, March 7.
Winners will receive PCNC merch perks and a spotlight, with credit only if you want it.
If you have questions, contact Toni or Matt at info@prochoicenc.org
What is Design the Movement?
Design the Movement is an annual, supporter-powered swag and merch contest that invites our community to actively shape how Pro-Choice NC shows up in the world.
Our work — and our voice — has evolved. This contest helps ensure our merch reflects who we are now — bold, truth-telling, and shaped by the creativity of our community.
More than a design contest, Design the Movement is an invitation for supporters to bring their creativity, ideas, and talents into the movement in a tangible way. Whether you’re a designer, a writer, a student, or someone with a sharp eye and a strong point of view, this is a chance to help carry our message forward — on shirts, totes, stickers, and more!
Winning ideas will be produced and featured across our quarterly merch drops throughout the year, turning community creativity into visibility, conversation, and collective impact.
What can I submit?
You don't need to be a professional designer to get involved. There are three easy ways to jump in:
Short, bold lines or catch phrases that belong on shirts, stickers, totes, or buttons.
Original artwork, icons, illustrations, or layouts. Rough drafts and early ideas are welcome.
Not a designer? Not a problem! Share a merch idea, vibe, or rough sketch and we’ll take it from there.
How submissions are reviewed
After submissions close, PCNC staff will review entries and select a small group of finalists in each category. Not every submission will be used, but all submissions will be reviewed after the deadline.
Supporters will then be invited to vote on the finalists. Public voting helps guide selections, with final decisions made by PCNC staff to ensure brand alignment and production feasibility.
Recognition and privacy
Recognition is always optional.
If your submission is used, you choose how (or if) you’re credited — including options like full name, first name only, nickname, or remaining anonymous.
We will never share personal information without your explicit permission.
Full contest rules
Original work only
All submissions must be your own original work. AI-generated or AI-assisted artwork is not permitted. Submissions may not include copyrighted images, characters, logos, or trademarked phrases.
Exclusive submission
By submitting, you confirm that this work is being shared exclusively with Pro-Choice North Carolina and has not been submitted elsewhere for use on merchandise or promotional materials.
Use of submissions
By submitting an entry, you grant Pro-Choice North Carolina a perpetual, royalty-free license to use, reproduce, modify, and distribute your submission in any format, including merchandise, tabling materials, digital content, and educational or promotional materials.
This applies to all submissions, not only winning designs. Entrants retain ownership of their work.
Submission limits
There is no limit to the number of submissions per person. You may submit as many ideas as you like.
Review process and voting
After submissions close, PCNC staff will review entries and select finalists for each category. Supporters will be invited to vote on finalists. Public voting helps guide selections, with final decisions made by PCNC staff to ensure brand alignment and production feasibility.
Final decisions and discretion
PCNC reserves the right to select finalists, request edits, combine ideas, or decline submissions for legal, brand, production, or logistical reasons. Not all submissions will be used, and submission does not guarantee selection or production.
Recognition and privacy
Recognition is always optional. If a submission is used, entrants may choose how (or if) they are credited, including options such as full name, first name only, nickname, or remaining anonymous.
PCNC will never share personal information without explicit permission.
Eligibility and youth participation
Individuals of any age may submit. We prioritize privacy and consent for all entrants. For entrants under 18, Pro-Choice North Carolina will not share identifying information or provide public recognition without the consent of a parent or guardian.
Agreement and signature
Entrants will be asked to affirm these rules and electronically sign within the submission form as part of the submission process.
Prizes
Grand Prize winner(s): Your winning design produced, Pro-Choice merch bundle ($100 value), a feature in C.R.E.A.M., and a social spotlight.
Category winners: Pro-Choice NC Merch Store gift certificate ($50 value) and a social spotlight.
Honorable mentions: Pro-Choice NC Merch Store gift certificate ($25 value), and a spotlight in our contest carousel.
Ready to submit?
Ready to jump in? Share your idea and help shape what North Carolina’s movement-makers wear next!
