Record Number of Entries Submitted for 2026 DAME Design Awards

The 2026 DAME Design Awards international jury has named 74 nominated products to go forward in the competition and be displayed in the DAME Design Awards showcase at Metstrade. This is the highest number of finalists in the awards 23-year history and were chosen from 153 entries received.

New for this year, all DAME Design Awards nominated companies are being invited to free fast track sustainability training on the eve of Metstrade. Participants will learn how to better assess, strengthen, and communicate the sustainability value of their products. This session will include workshops, expert guidance and industry networking.

The winners of each of the DAME’s eight categories are selected from the nominated products. The overall DAME Design Award winner is then assessed from this group. The jury will also award a series of Special Mentions (highly commended entries) and, at its discretion, may name an Environmental Design Award winner.

All nominees and winners will be announced at the Metstrade. Details of nominees and winners will be included within the Jury Report on the DAME Awards website following the announcements.

This year’s DAME Design Awards entry fees will be donated to the Royal Netherlands Sea Rescue Institution (KNRM), one of the world’s oldest and most respected voluntary rescue organizations.