I think that the main advantage of winning is exposure already. As the right exposure can give you so much more income than any amount of Steem or so, i would participate regardless. A thing to consider could be introducing nomination of "Minnow of the week" somebody with rating less than 40 and a small prize for him. I am here just a little bit more than a month now, but i clearly remember that day i have received 5 SBD from an honorable mention in your contest. And it gave me exposure that boosted me up significantly. Just a thought.