MUMBAI: US kids? broadcaster Nickelodeon has announced the first-ever global SpongeBob SquarePants-inspired short film competition, SpongeBob SquareShorts: Original Fan Tributes.

SpongeBob fans and filmmakers of all ages from around the world are invited to create SpongeBob-inspired short films for a chance to win a cash prize and trip for four people to a screening event in Hollywood, California.

The call for entries has opened and will run through 28 June. Entries can be submitted in two categories (under 18 years of age, and 18 and over) to www.SpongeBobSquareShorts.com.

Nickelodeon Group CMO Pam Kaufman said, "SpongeBob is a global icon and beloved by people of all ages. We?re excited to launch a competition that lets fans around the world create compelling short films that showcase the positivity and optimism that SpongeBob brings to audiences everywhere."

Films submitted to the SpongeBob SquareShorts: Original Fan Tributes competition should be themed around SpongeBob, his world and/or his friends, while celebrating his endearing attributes: humor, overflowing happiness and persistent positivity. The short films can be live-action, animation, stop-motion, etc. and should run no longer than three (3) minutes. Videos will be judged on originality & creativity, incorporation of SpongeBob?s attributes, and overall appeal.

Following the entry period, finalists will be selected by judges, and the top 10 in each of the two categories will be announced on 18 July as finalists. Till 2 August, fans will have the chance to vote for their favorite of the finalists. The winner from each category will be announced in August.