The Spider Awards 2006 is open for entries as of the 9th of January - it's a global contest as the name suggests restricted to monochrome work - either digital or conventional and is open to amateurs or professionals. Here’s the artsy intro from their site:

"Black and White Spider Awards is an organization for the advancement of black and white photography. Our aim is to bring photographers from all corners of the globe together with leading industry figures to participate in a unique annual celebration of this classic art-form."

you can get more info at the contest site.....

might be something to keep a close eye on..