TOKYOPOP (Initial D, Real Bout High School) is holding a wondrous opportunity for aspiring manga artists. TOKYOPOP is gladly launching the "Rising Stars of Manga" Talent Competition in hopes of finding the next visionary talent. Submit your own original work and get worldwide recognition! TOKYOPOP is encouraging material from any genre you wish.

"With the 'Rising Stars' competition, TOKYOPOP hopes to discover some of the best untapped manga talent the world has to offer," said Stu Levy, the company’s Founder and Chief Executive Officer. “We know that many aspiring manga artists here at home are looking for an opportunity to be published, and TOKYOPOP is proud to be the first U.S. manga publisher to support turning their dreams into reality.”

The grand prize winner will receive $2,500 and a chance to present an idea for TOKYPOP to publish a full-length manga series. The second place winner will receive $1,000. Eight runner-ups will receive $500. All winners will be published in TOKYOPOP's The Rising Stars of Manga due for publication in spring of 2003.

Sounds great, huh? Starting August 15th, head over to TOKYOPOP to obtain entry forms and the official Rules and Regulations. You can also send a self-addressed, stamped envelope to:

Rising Stars of Manga, c/o TOKYOPOP 5900 Wilshire Boulevard, Suite 2000, Los Angeles, CA 90036.

The competition ends on December 16, 2002.