I'm 99% sure this is not the first time this idea has been pitched, so first and foremost forgive if I've stolen someone else's idea.
I feel this would both create an incentive and cast a needed spotlight on the map creation process for new and current map makers. With enough advance notice and coordination, some real good might come out of such an event sponsored by HTCs. It may even be possible for HTC to recruit members of the AvA or CM volenteer staff to help review or facilitate, or have a final round where players get to play on them and decide.
My favorite thing about these contests, is usually the most inticing prizes for the participants are of low or almost no monetary value. I'd ask some current and devote map makers what type of grand prize or top-3 prize they would like to see offered - maybe it's a physical device to help with the process, or a prize only themseleves and HTC's could dream or be capable of implimenting/awarding to them (within reason of cource, lol).
