DesignPhiladelphia Awards

DesignTech Student Summit  
The DesignTech Student Summit empowers Philadelphia high school students with creative skills that translate into real-world opportunity. Through hands-on workshops—ranging from digital tools to fashion and architecture—students gain exposure to the design field, build confidence, and connect with mentors who reflect the diversity of our city.
This is where future innovators find their spark.
 

NEXT NOW DESIGN: A Symposium 
Next Now Design is our signature summit for forward-thinking professionals shaping the future of design, business, and the built environment. This half-day symposium gathers cutting-edge voices to discuss the forces—social, economic, and technological—reshaping how we live, work, and create. 

Two standout themes anchor this year’s symposium: 

• Made in America: The Renaissance of Craft, Design & Manufacturing
  • Domestic design is experiencing a bold revival and Philadelphia is at the center. This panel explores how local makers are blending traditional craftsmanship with modern innovation to produce work that’s both globally relevant and deeply rooted in place. From Amuneal’s architectural metalwork to Tyler Hays’ BDDW studios, this conversation illustrates how intentional design and regional manufacturing are revitalizing industry and identity. 
• The Great Migration: Can Philly Become the Next Creative Capital?
  • As artists and entrepreneurs seek alternatives to overpriced coastal cities, Philadelphia is emerging as a destination for creative talent. But how do we keep them here? This session unpacks the infrastructure—affordable space, inclusive policies, and cultural momentum—needed to transform Philly into a long-term hub for design, innovation, and creative entrepreneurship. 

Together, these conversations challenge attendees to think bigger—and more locally—about how design can spark equitable, sustainable growth. 

DesignPhiladelphia Festival 2025 is more than your average community fest. It’s a call to action and a celebration of the people and ideas shaping the future of our city. Whether you're a student, a sponsor, or a seasoned designer, there's a place for you here. We can’t wait to see you soon.