The German Design Council is the leading authority on design in Germany. Since its founding in 1953, it has championed design as an economic, cultural and social force. As a thought leader, it drives dialogue between business, research and creative disciplines – with a clear goal: to unlock the full potential of design for a sustainable future.
With the launch of the German Design Awards in 2012, it set new standards for excellence in design. The German Innovation Awards followed in 2017 – celebrating groundbreaking developments that improve lives. Always in focus: transformation through quality, vision and conviction.
The German Innovation Awards recognise outstanding products, projects and groundbreaking innovations that make a lasting difference. From green mobility and digital healthcare to new work models and remarkable feats of engineering – every forward-thinking idea matters. Because positive change that impacts and enriches the lives of diverse target groups stems from bold innovation. The German Innovation Awards make these achievements visible – and show where they can take us.
The German Innovation Awards stand out with three key strengths:
- Recognition – for innovation by an independent jury of experts
- Visibility – with a strong institution behind it, a big stage and professional communications
- Relevance – from smart details to big solutions. What counts is genuine added value – for people, processes and markets.
The German Design Council connects design with business – strategically, sustainably, impactfully. With over 70 years of expertise and a clear vision for the future.
In 1969, the Federal Award for Good Design (Bundespreis Gute Form) was presented for the first time. Organised by the German Design Council and sponsored by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs, the award was created to honour the growing importance of design.
Further Awards and Competitions
Whether it's strong brands, groundbreaking innovations, visionary architecture, or the design talent of tomorrow – the German Design Council honours exceptional achievements. With a wide range of awards and competitions, it makes excellence in design visible and fosters talent, values, and future ideas.
Commitment
The German Design Council is actively committed to strengthening the economic relevance of design, brand and innovation – through memberships, partnerships and the promotion of targeted projects and initiatives. At the same time, it drives forward key topics such as digital transformation and the integration of sustainability into corporate culture. Here’s a look at this ongoing commitment.
