The prize is for unpublished poems written by adults for children aged 7–11. Entrants are welcome from anywhere in the world. 1st prize €1,000 plus a week at The Moth Retreat in Ireland; 2nd prize of €500; 3rd prize of €250. The winning poems are published in the Irish Times online.

‘I have won a number of international poetry competitions with my poems for adults, but I can honestly say this tops them all.’ Carole Bromley

'Winning the Caterpillar Poetry Prize is an absolute dream come true!!' Laura Theis

'Winning The Caterpillar Poetry Prize brought me a book publishing deal and many wonderful opportunities thereafter. Thank you with all my heart.' Louise Greig