How to Participate

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, please contact Sophia Amaro, Director of Development, at 212.849.8362 or amaros@si.edu

As a Dinner Patron

The Awards are bestowed each fall at a gala dinner. This year’s festivities will be taking place at Cipriani 42nd Street in New York City on October 22, 2009 (The Garden is not available this year due to the Museum’s major renovation project.) If you would like to attend by purchasing a table, please contact Sophia Amaro, Director of Development, at 212.849.8362 or amaros@si.edu. For individual seats, please contact Barbara Roan, Special Events Manager, at 212.849.8425 or RoanB@si.edu

As an After Party Guest

The National Design Awards gala dinner is accompanied by an After Party. After Party guests enjoy cocktails and hors d’oeuvres with a live DJ. Advance tickets are $125. $100 for Members and $150 at the door. For more information, please contact Barbara Roan, Special Events Manager, at 212.849.8425 or RoanB@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.