JDORAW x PENTAWARDS 2026

12 / 02 / 26 PEOPLE & CULTURE

A New Era for RAW | JDO x Pentawards

JDORAW has always been about opening doors. This year, we’re throwing them wide open.

For the first time, we’re teaming up with Pentawards to run our annual new-talent competition. It’s a collaboration rooted in craft, creativity, and a shared belief that the next generation of designers deserves a proper stage.

Alongside a paid placement at JDO, gaining hands-on experience inside an international, award-winning agency, winners will see their work celebrated across Pentawards’ international platform and channels, giving their creative careers a serious lift-off from the very start.

And now… the 2026 brief: Loved by Grandma xx

This year we are daring students to take a creative leap and turn the fuddy-duddy into the fabulous.

Entrants are asked to reimagine products of pantries-past into modern, aspirational brands. From jellied eels to spotted dick, these forgotten favourites are re-entering contemporary culture. The task is to turn the outdated into the desirable.

We’re looking for ideas that understand how culture loops, evolves, and comes back around. How can you take an old-fashioned food and turn it into the next must-have cultural phenomenon? Extending beyond just pack design, what does the world of your brand look like? How does it live in social, retail, experience, language and community?

RAW has always been a launchpad for new talent. This year, with Pentawards on board, everything is levelling up.

Entrants are asked to reimagine traditional British foods as modern, aspirational brands. From jellied eels to spotted dick, these forgotten favourites are re-entering contemporary culture. The task is simple: turn the fuddy-duddy into the fabulous.

You are more than welcome to pick which ever by-gone food tickles their tastebuds.

Need a little inspiration?

Grandma has left her shopping list on the counter for ingredient inspiration.

We’re looking for ideas that understand how culture loops, evolves, and comes back around. Smart, confident, and culture cutting.

RAW has always been a launchpad for new talent. Now, with Pentawards, we're levelling up.

HOW TO ENTER

Aimed at students in their third year, but open for entries from any background. The deadline is 10 April. To get involved, head over to the JDO website to download the brief. Apply through the Pentawards website here.

Competition prizes include paid internships, tickets to the Pentawards Gala, interviews and publications, and goody bags.

What are you waiting for? Get in touch at contactus@jdoraw.com

Good luck, dear xx

JDORAW x Pentawards will be open for submissions from Monday 16th February. T&Cs apply. Must be able to work in the UK to accept an internship.

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