Design Intelligence Award (DIA)

What is Design Intelligence Award (DIA)?

The Design Intelligence Award is an international competition founded by China Academy of Art to recognize intelligent, sustainable design solutions that improve products, services, and everyday life.

What is the Design Intelligence Award (DIA) entry deadline?

The most recent entry deadline on record was 1 September 2026. Check the official website for the next call.

What is the Design Intelligence Award (DIA) entry fee?

Entry is paid: For 2026, free registration was extended to 1 July. Additional registration closed on 1 September at RMB 3,500 / USD 510 per entry. Expert-nominated entries are exempt from entry fees. Fees can change between award cycles, so confirm on the official website.

Who can enter this award?

Open internationally to enterprises, design companies, independent and in-house designers, young creators, universities, colleges and institutional teams, with requirements varying by group. Product Group requires a product launched within the previous two years or an unreleased product with a full-function prototype; Concept Group requires demonstrated industrial feasibility.

What is the prize?

The 2026 awards include one Grand Award of RMB 1,000,000; four Product Group Gold Awards of RMB 300,000, sixteen Silver Awards of RMB 100,000 and twenty Bronze Awards of RMB 30,000. The Concept Group includes four Future Talents awards of RMB 20,000 and ten Young Talents awards with trophies and certificates. Monetary amounts are before tax.

How do I apply to Design Intelligence Award (DIA)?

Register and submit text, renderings and descriptive files online. Shortlisted Product Group entries must provide the physical product, while Concept Group entries may need a functional prototype or detailed explanatory video; applicants pay shipping, insurance, customs and related logistics costs. Standard registration is free, but a late-period review fee may apply.

Do I need to submit a physical prototype?

Only finalists are required to submit a physical prototype. You do not need to submit one when applying or making your initial submission. If selected as a finalist, a physical prototype may need to be sent for evaluation and additional costs may apply. Check the official award website for specific requirements and shipping details.