I have entered several national and international photography competitions this week in hopes of gaining both recognition for my work and funding for projects I have in their early planning stages. These competitions are with prestigeous organizations:

Hasselblad Foundation
Aaron Siskind Foundation
Ultimate Eye Foundation
Nikon
Sony

I would encourage you to try your hand, also. Most of these that I have entered are divided between amateur and professional photographers, so even if you don't make your living as a photographer like I do, there is no reason why you can't strive for something wonderful.

Give it a shot!