The Applied Arts 2026 Design Awards are an internationally recognized design competition organized by Applied Arts Magazine, one of the leading publications dedicated to visual communication, graphic design, and creative industries. The awards program celebrates outstanding creative achievement across a wide range of design disciplines, including graphic design, branding, typography, illustration, interactive design, packaging, advertising, and experimental work. By highlighting both established studios and emerging designers, the competition serves as a comprehensive snapshot of contemporary design excellence from Canada, the United States, and the global creative community.
Each year, submitted work is evaluated by an independent jury composed of respected design professionals, creative directors, and industry leaders. Entries are judged on concept, execution, originality, and overall impact, ensuring that winning projects reflect both creative innovation and professional standards. The judging process emphasizes fairness, relevance, and industry insight, making the Applied Arts Design Awards a trusted benchmark for quality and creative credibility within the design world.
Winning projects are featured in the Applied Arts Design Awards Annual, a widely circulated print and digital publication, and showcased in the online Awards Gallery, providing long-term visibility and professional recognition. The competition is widely regarded as a career-enhancing opportunity, offering designers increased exposure to potential clients, employers, and collaborators. By combining editorial authority, international reach, and rigorous peer review, the Applied Arts 2026 Design Awards position themselves as a key platform for promoting design excellence and advancing creative careers.
Entry fees vary by category and format, with fees generally ranging from approximately $65 for single entries and up to $125 for series or specialty design categories.
Eligibility
Open to Canadian, US and international design studios and independent designers entering work created between March 2025 and March 2026, including commissioned, published, unpublished and personal projects (across multiple design disciplines).
Prize
Prize winners receive industry-wide creative recognition including publication in the Design Awards Annual and inclusion in the online Winners Gallery and Awards archive, as well as career-boosting exposure to leading design professionals and enhanced visibility within the design community.
