NewsJul 22, 2026

Associate RGDs are invited to apply for DesignThinkers Development Grants

Deadline to apply: 11:59 PM PT on August 20, 2026

Our 2026 DesignThinkers Toronto Development Grants (previously called scholarships) are generously supported by: Cinnamon Toast, Davis, Fusion, One Twenty Three West (123w), Pixels and Pencils, Pound & Grain and Razor.

These grants recognize outstanding emerging designers and provide an opportunity to gain exposure, connect with peers and industry leaders and participate in the DesignThinkers conference.

Up to seven recipients (possibility for an applicant to receive up to 2 grants) will receive:

Free registration to DesignThinkers Toronto 2026
$750 in cash to help offset travel, accommodation and related expenses (recipients of the grants supported by One Twenty Three West (123w) and Pound & Grain will receive $500)

Recipients and their work will also be showcased on the main stage screens during conference breaks.

Eligibility criteria

To apply, you must be an Associate RGD Member in good standing at the time of the application deadline. Associate RGD Members have 8 or fewer years of professional experience and graduation from a recognized post-secondary program (scan of transcript or diploma required). Review all of the benefits of RGD Membership here.

**If you received a 2026 DesignThinkers Vancouver Development Grant, you are not eligible to enter for Toronto.

How to apply

To be considered, submit:

One design project from your portfolio (can be personal, school or professional work)*
A rationale for the project describing the context, process and solution*
Responses to the following questions:
- Why do you wish to attend DesignThinkers?
- What do you hope to gain from the experience?
If the project submitted is professional work, the information provided will be emailed to you and can be used for one of three case studies in an RGD Certification application. Find out about Certification.