Dutch Design Awards (DDA), an initiative of Dutch Design Foundation (DDF), is back. This year with a sharp focus on emerging talent. Designer and innovator Borre Akkersdijk will serve as jury chair. In 2012, he was honored as DDA Young Designer. Now, he will lead the search for the designers of tomorrow.

Jury chair Borre Akkersdijk is the designer and founder of BYBORRE®, an Amsterdam-based platform where designers, architects, brands, and manufacturers can access transparently developed, tailor-made textiles. With his company he works towards a fairer, more efficient, and future-proof textile system.

“Winning the Dutch Design Award was the starting point of my career,” says Akkersdijk. “It gave me the opportunity to think beyond the beaten paths of the industry. In that free space, I could use design as a tool for systemic change. What I want to give back now is that same space and recognition to emerging designers who continue to challenge and inspire the field. We need makers who rewrite the rules and I’m happy to pass the baton onto them.”

While DDA previously spanned eight categories, this year the spotlight is on talent development. Three emerging designers under the age of 35 will each receive a €10,000 grant. The Young Designer Award recognizes designers with a strong vision, social engagement, and a multidisciplinary approach. 

The open call launches August 25, 2025, via the DDA website. Designers may apply directly or be nominated. Selection criteria will be announced soon through DDA’s channels. The award is made possible with support from the Keep an Eye Foundation, which champions emerging creative talent.

Dutch Design Foundation continues to develop new avenues that recognise design as a force for transformation in a multi-year plan, awarding boundary-pushing work and highlighting the best and most daring collaborations.

Dutch Design Awards (DDA) annually honors the most outstanding designers and projects from the Netherlands. Since its inception in 2003, DDA has provided a platform for design that is relevant, impactful, and future-oriented. With a strong focus on systemic change, collaboration, and talent development, DDA demonstrates how design can drive social, technological, and cultural transitions. The awards are part of Dutch Design Foundation and are presented during Dutch Design Week in October.