If you already work in the design sector, be it as a successful designer or entrepreneur, take part in the International design Entrepreneur of the Year 2009 Award competition!

IYDE - Design and business hand in hand

The British Council and 100% Design, London’s international trade fair, have established the award 'International Young Design Entrepreneur', to champion and celebrate the importance of creative entrepreneurs working in the field of design. Participants from any of the following sectors can apply:

Design sector definition

			arcihtecture, interiors and environment
			product design: furniture, industrial products and craft
			design promotion: exhibitions, events festivals and retail
			consultants providing specialist services in any of the areas outlined

We recognise that a participant may strongly influence the business of design without being a practising designer.

Why take part?

			to showcase your individual achievement and potential
			to promote top quality Slovene design to an international market
			to take part in a wide range of business networking opportunities at 100% Design

Who can apply

			You are a young graduate professional between 25 and 35.
			You already work in design sector (as defined above).
			You are entrepreneurial and have shown your ability in the promotion of design in their country.
			You have a good command of spoken and written English.
			You have a keen interest in the UK and its design sector.

In addition to Slovenia, nine other countries will take part in the competition. Each of these will select their own national finalist. In September the finalists will arrive in the UK for a tour of the national design industry. The programme will comprise visits to designers, design-lead retailers and manufacturers, publishers and cultural institutions active in the procurement of design and architecture. The tour will include elements of the London Design week programme – openings, seminars, and events – concluding at 100% Design.

The IYDEY judging process will take place following the UK tour, prior to 100% Design. All of the finalists will be interviewed and asked to make a presentation about their vision for their country’s design industry to a judging panel of elite members of the UK design industry. The winner of the award will be announced at an awards ceremony on the final day of 100% Design.

The financial award (approx. £7,500), will be linked to the UK and tailored to the winner’s specific needs. For example it might allow him/her to take a (series of) short training course(s) in the UK, or allow them to do a postgraduate course at a UK institution, or help fund a placement in UK industry, or allow them to bring over a series of UK specialists to run workshops etc. in their home country. The winner will be encouraged to come up with their own proposal.

How to apply?

			Download the IYDEY application form.
			Return the completed application form to sandra.hlebsbritishcouncil.si by 02 July 2009.
			Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an interview with the Selected candidate will be informed of a provisional award.

For more information, please contact Sandra Hlebš, tel 01 300 20 37