21st Output Design Award 2026

Many design projects—whether in product, visual, fashion, animation, or architecture—are created by students, emerging talents, or professional designers with exceptional creativity and potential. Yet, these works often fade away after a single classroom presentation or portfolio review, seen only by a small academic circle. Professional-level thinking and execution are frequently hidden in drawers, never reaching the wider public or design community.

We believe this needs to change. Outstanding design, whether by professionals or non-professionals, deserves visibility, recognition, and dialogue. By building platforms that elevate student and independent work to the global stage, we aim to bridge the gap between emerging and established voices in the field. Our goal is to ensure that talent is not limited by status. Because the future of design—fresh, bold, and boundary-pushing—is already taking shape in classrooms, studios, and bedrooms around the world. It just needs to be seen.

About

Output Design Award is a non-profit organization in Amsterdam. The goal of the foundation is to support young talents and provide a platform for the exchange of ideas on design education and the design profession.

What can you submit?

Graphic Design, Product Design, Architecture, Photography, Illustration, Typography, Installation Art, Multimedia Design, and more.

Eligibility

Anyone currently studying communication design, product design, architecture, interaction design, or film at a university or college is eligible to participate. Recent graduates—within 12 months of completing their degree—may also submit their final projects. In addition, professional designers are welcome to enter, making the competition a dynamic platform for both emerging and established talents to showcase their work.

Entry Fee

The entry fee is 30 USD per submitted project

Prize

All projects submitted to the :output competition will automatically be eligible for the prestigious Grand Prix. The winner will be selected through a rigorous evaluation process conducted by a distinguished panel of industry experts and technical leaders.

The judging panel comprises seasoned professionals and recognized authorities in relevant fields, ensuring fairness and expertise throughout the selection process. All submissions undergo comprehensive review using stringent evaluation criteria that assess innovation, technical execution, practical value, and overall presentation quality.

How to enter

All entries must be registered through our official online platform, regardless of the project format:www.inputoutput.de

Digital Submissions:
All works—except large-scale interactive or video-based projects—must be submitted in digital format. Image files should be in JPG format, with a maximum resolution of 1600 x 900 pixels, 72 dpi, RGB color mode. Uploads must be completed via the online registration portal. Please do not send images via email or submit files that exceed the specified size limits.

Video Submissions:
Video projects may be submitted by providing YouTube or Vimeo links through the online registration system.

Dates

  • Kicking off: 28 November 2025
  • Registration deadline: 15 February 2026
  • Online Jury: 10-19 March 2026
  • Final Jury: 30 April 2026
  • Results Final Jury: early May 2026
  • Publication of the winners: 10 June 2026

Categories

The UN Sustainable Development Goals. All submissions should be in line with one of the following 17 UN SDGs.

  1. No poverty
  2. Zero hunger
  3. Good health and well-being
  4. Quality education
  5. Gender equality
  6. Clean water and sanitation
  7. Affordable and clean energy
  8. Decent work and economic growth
  9. Industry, innovation and infrastructure
  10. Reduced inequalities
  11. Sustainable cities and communities
  12. Responsible consumption and production
  13. Climate action
  14. Life below water
  15. Life on land
  16. Peace, Justice and strong institutions
  17. Partnerships for the goals

Evaluation Criteria & Jury Process

:output International Award jury reviews all submissions based on four updated principles:

  • Innovation in Problem-Solving – How effectively the design addresses specific needs or challenges.
  • Sense of Solidarity – Encouragement of empathy, collaboration, and social unity.
  • Economic Awareness – Thoughtful use of resources with attention to practicality and sustainability.
  • Positive User Impact – The extent to which the design enhances user experience and community well-being.

Shipping Information for Output Design Award 2026 Final Jury

Delivery Schedule:

  • Shipping Window: From 26 March to 26 April
  • Delivery Hours: Monday to Friday, 09:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (local time)
  • Final Delivery Deadline: 26 April

All shipments must arrive at the DHL Amsterdam Logistics warehouse by the deadline to ensure your entry is physically presented to the :output International Award Final Jury. Late deliveries may result in additional costs or your project being presented digitally instead.

Please monitor your shipment via tracking to confirm successful delivery.
Shipping by sea freight is strongly discouraged, as delays have occurred in past years and may risk disqualification.
If you are unable to meet the deadline, contact us immediately.

Labeling Instructions:
• Clearly mark both the exhibit and its transport packaging with your Entry ID.
• Please label the shipment with: “Product for competition – NO COMMERCIAL VALUE”

Shipping Large or Specialized Items:
If your entry includes large-scale items such as large-scale artworks and installations, cars , or micro house, please ensure dimensions do not exceed 200 in × 200 in × 100 in (L x W x H).
Participants are responsible for arranging insurance coverage for their entries.
If your exhibit requires professional assembly or special handling, please contact us in advance to make necessary arrangements.

Delivery Address:
DHL Amsterdam Logistics
Kaapstadweg 25, 1047 HG Amsterdam, Netherlands

FAQ

  1. How do I register for the :output International Award?
    You can register online through the “Submit” section on our website. First-time participants need to create a user account.
  2. Who is eligible to participate?
    Students, emerging talents, and professional designers are all welcome to join.
  3. Is there a participation fee?
    Yes, the entry fee is 30 euros per project.
  4. Can I submit more than one project?
    Yes, you may submit multiple projects.
  5. Do I need to submit a physical prototype or model?
    No, only a presentation poster is required. You may optionally include a video link to further explain your project.
  6. What language should I use for my submission?
    All information and descriptions must be in English. Submissions in other languages cannot be processed.
  7. Can I edit my entry after registering?
    Yes, you can update your project details in your account at any time before the submission deadline.
For Further information please contact:

:output Foundation
Peperstraat 7, 1011 TJ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Email: info@inputoutput.de
Web: https://inputoutput.de
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