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DesignThinkers Vancouver Development Grant

Supporting emerging designers to attend Canada's largest design conference (Application Closed, and winners are announced for 2026)

The 2026 DesignThinkers Vancouver Development Grants were generously supported by 123w, Becoming Design Office, OK DAVE, Pendo, Pound & Grain, PS&Co., Will and Rethink.

Up to eight recipients received free registration to DesignThinkers Vancouver 2026 and $500 in cash to help offset travel, accommodation and related expenses. Recipients and their work were also showcased on the main stage screens during conference breaks.

Grant application and eligibility details:

Eligibility: Associate RGD Members in good standing with 8 or fewer years of professional experience and graduation from a recognized post-secondary program. Recipients of the 2025 DesignThinkers Toronto Scholarship were not eligible.

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.

Selection criteria

Applicants will be evaluated on the quality of the work and the thoughtfulness of their responses.

 

2027 grants will be announced in January 2027. Check back then or subscribe to RGD Word to be notified.