Applications for the "Red Dot Award: Product Design 2026"
Applications for the “Red Dot Award: Product Design 2026” are now open.
The “Red Dot Award,” based in Essen, Germany, is one of the world's most prestigious design awards. Since its founding in 1955, it has served as a “mark of excellence in design” for companies and designers worldwide.
It is held annually across three categories: “Product Design,” “Brands & Communication Design,” and “Design Concept.” This call for entries pertains to the “Product Design” category.
Eligible entries are industrial products launched or scheduled for launch between January 2024 and July 2026.
Products from a wide range of fields are eligible, including furniture, home appliances, vehicles, medical devices, and IT devices.
Judging will take place in March 2026. Approximately 40 design experts from around the world (including designers, professors, and journalists) will rigorously evaluate the physical products based on criteria such as innovation, functionality, ergonomics, durability, environmental compatibility, and emotional value.
Award-winning products gain extensive exposure opportunities, including publication in the “Red Dot Design Yearbook,” exhibition at the Red Dot Design Museum in Essen, and international visibility on the official website. Furthermore, recipients of the top honor, “Red Dot: Best of the Best,” will be presented with a trophy at a gala award ceremony.
▶ Application Schedule
- Early Bird Registration: September 15 - October 10, 2025
- Regular Registration: October 11 - December 12, 2025
- Latecomer Registration: December 13, 2025 - January 16, 2026
▶Application Method
Detailed application materials are provided in Japanese.
Japanese Detailed Materials: Red Dot Guide to Success JP.pdf
The actual application process is conducted via the English version of the official Red Dot website.
Japanese application support services (English translation, registration/submission material preparation advice) are also available.
Inquiries: jidasec@jida.or.jp (tentative)
*The official dedicated contact will be announced on the JIDA website once confirmed.
Red Dot Official Website: www.red-dot.org