For 16 years, The Detroit Month of Design has served as a global stage for the city’s creative community – connecting designers with new audiences and celebrating Detroit’s status as a UNESCO City of Design.
We invite you to contribute to this year’s narrative. We are seeking independently produced exhibitions, installations, product launches, lectures, tours and workshops that bring design to life across the city. Whether you are an established firm or an emerging independent creator, if you have a project that embodies our 2026 theme, we want to hear from you.
This year, we’re shifting focus from theory to practice, with the festival theme centering on the ways that Detroit designers are shaping the future of our city and beyond. The festival calendar will highlight the ways in which our creative community innovates to solve problems, build resilience and move the needle on what’s possible.
Whether you run a global design firm or build furniture in your garage, if your project embodies the 2026 theme, we want to hear from you.
Find Out More
When can I apply?
The open call runs from February 25 through April 19, 2026 at 11:59:59 PM
How much does it cost?
It’s free to apply! Design Core subsidizes application fee costs as part of our commitment to equity.
Who is eligible?
Applications are open to the public. While we prioritize showcasing Detroit-based talent, we welcome submissions from designers, brands, and organizations around the world.
How are selected events chosen?
Our intersectional curatorial committee curates the festival calendar each year. Click here to learn more about the selection criteria.
Hear from participating designers & event organizers about their experience with the festival.
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