Are you submitting them just for judging? If so, it may be unnecessary to mount them unless the competition specifically states that you must mount your submissions. Be sure to read the submission rules and follow them to the letter.

Assuming you are accepted and begin showing at a gallery, you may still not need to mount. I've framed a lot of prints and shown at galleries numerous times - you don't have to mount your prints before framing unless they're larger than 8" x 10". The only reason to mount a framed image is to prevent the paper from rippling and/or bowing.

Here are a few printing tips I've learned (the hard way):

• Take care in the paper on which you print. Don't skimp. Consider a metallic paper for monochrome prints.
• Be sure to tell your printer that you do not want them to colour correct your images before printing. Ask what colourspace they prefer (AdobeRGB, CMYK, ...) and adjust your images accordingly before submitting them.

Here are a few framing tips (also learned the hard way):

• Mount the print to the top back side of the mat by using only three or four pieces of cloth or archival tape. Don't secure more than one side of the print - it must have room to expand and contract. For larger prints it may be wise to use an uncut mat as loose backing - be sure your frame is thick enough before doing this.
• Lightly dust the print before framing. Don't ever blow dust off. Clean the glass on both sides, then clean it again, and once more, just to be sure. Gallery lights are merciless.