A program like the National Design Awards requires the efforts of many types of contributors, supporters, and participants, from the design community and beyond. See below how you can be a part of the Awards.

As a Sponsor

The support of corporate and institutional sponsors makes it possible to ensure that the Awards fulfill their mission to recognize design work that enhances the quality of daily life in the United States and to bring it to the attention of a national audience. To find out more about becoming an Awards sponsor, contact Anne Shisler-Hughes, Director of Development, at 212.849.8393 or at Shisler-HughesA@si.edu.

As a Dinner Patron

The Awards are bestowed each fall at a gala dinner held at Cooper-Hewitt, National Design Museum, in the landmark Andrew Carnegie Mansion on Fifth Avenue in New York City. If you would like to attend by purchasing either a table or individual seats, contact Jodi Imburgia at 212.849.8304 or at imburgiaj@si.edu.

As an After Party Guest

The National Design Awards gala dinner is accompanied by an After Party held in the Museum's Great Hall. After Party guests watch the Awards proceedings via simulcast. Advance tickets are $125. $150 at the door. For more information, please contact Jodi Imburgia at 212.849.8304 or at imburgiaj@si.edu.

As a Juror

National Design Awards jurors are chosen for their prominence and expertise in the design world and their ability to serve in a knowledgeable and statesmanlike manner. If you would like to be considered as a juror for next year's National Design Awards, contact the National Design Awards office at 212.849.8337 or designawards@si.edu.

As a Nominator

Potential Award-winners are identified by a carefully chosen committee of nominators from all 50 states. The nominating committee is composed of leading designers, educators, journalists, patrons, and curators. If you would like to be considered as a member of our nominating committee, contact the National Design Awards office at 212.849.8337 or designawards@si.edu.

As a Nominee

To be considered for a National Design Award, you must be nominated. Criteria for each award are presented on that award's page.

 

Note that employees and trustees of Cooper-Hewitt, National Design Museum or Award sponsors and their families are ineligible for the jury and the Awards.