The Kokuyo Design Award 2026 is now accepting applications from designers worldwide, offering a substantial ¥2,000,000 (approximately $14,000) grand prize for the winning entry. The submission deadline is set for October 8, 2025, at 12:00 noon Japan Standard Time.

This prestigious international product design competition serves as a platform for co-creation with talented designers while supporting their professional activities and career development. Since its establishment more than 24 years ago, the award has consistently selected outstanding product designs that reflect current social conditions and contemporary challenges.

What sets the Kokuyo Design Award apart from other design competitions is its commitment to bringing winning designs to market. Award-winning works are transformed into commercial products through collaborative efforts between KOKUYO developers and the prize recipients. This unique approach ensures that innovative designs reach consumers as reliable, practical products that enhance daily life and work experiences.

KOKUYO's mission through this award extends beyond recognition – the company aims to deliver designs that breathe new life into everyday tools and work implements. By supporting designers' future activities, KOKUYO strives to create a tomorrow that people eagerly anticipate, filled with improved and innovative products.

Over its more than two-decade history, the competition has evolved significantly from a simple selection and award process into a comprehensive project that conveys contemporary values. To date, more than 20 products have been successfully developed and commercialized through the program, demonstrating its practical impact on both designers' careers and consumer markets.

The 2026 competition offers three tiers of recognition and monetary rewards. The Grand Prix, awarded to one entry from all submissions, carries the top prize of ¥2,000,000 (approximately $14,000). Three Merit Awards will be distributed among all entries, with each winner receiving ¥500,000 (approximately $3,500). Additionally, up to ten recipients may be selected for the NEW GENERATION AWARD, with each winner earning ¥30,000 (approximately $210).

The competition maintains an inclusive approach to eligibility, welcoming participation from corporations, organizations, individuals, and groups regardless of age, gender, professional background, or nationality. However, there is one strict requirement: only designs that have never been publicly displayed or shown in Japan or any other country are eligible for submission.

Eligible entries encompass a broad range of products used in various life scenarios. Participants may submit designs for stationery items, furniture pieces, or tools used in working, learning, and living environments. This wide scope allows for diverse and innovative submissions across multiple product categories.

The application process begins on July 25, 2025, when registrations and design submissions will be accepted. All materials must be submitted by the October 8, 2025 deadline at 12:00 noon JST. Interested participants can access the application portal and additional information through the official Kokuyo Design Award website.

This competition represents a significant opportunity for designers to not only gain recognition and substantial monetary rewards but also to see their concepts developed into real-world products that can impact consumers globally. The combination of financial prizes, commercial development potential, and international exposure makes the Kokuyo Design Award 2026 a compelling opportunity for product designers seeking to advance their careers and contribute to innovative consumer solutions.