Information for students
Competition information for Students
The Universal Design Grand Challenge 2023 is now open for applications. We invite design students, including those studying architecture, engineering, product and software development, to apply. The competition is open to students in their final 2 years of study, post graduates and recent graduates.
Closing Date for Entries is 23:59 on Friday, 16th June 2023
Why Enter?
The competition application process is a great learning opportunity for all students. It challenges you to really examine how you can create designs that work for everyone in society. The more universal your design, the more people it works for and therefore the more successful it will be. Just completing the application will open your eyes to the value of Universal Design.
Finalists in the competition will receive expert pitch training in how to present your design.
Winners receive a cash prize, the coveted UDGC trophy, the title and the opportunity for media profile.
Past winners of this competition have gone on to win further awards and develop their design commercially.
How to Enter?
Register online at https://universaldesign.awardsplatform.com
Complete the application process by:
- Giving a brief description of your design idea.
- Explaining how the design / solution is used.
- Highlighting how the Principles of Universal Design are incorporated into your design (your design should feature at least 4 of the 7 Principles).
- Uploading supporting images, presentations or videos.
You can enter as a solo student or as part of student project design team. In your application, you must list a course tutor or school representative who knows your design and confirm the information in your application.
Applications for the 2023 competition must be complete by 23:59 on Friday, 16th June 2023. No applications will be accepted after this time.
What happens next?
- Applications for the 2023 competition open on 13th April and close at midnight on Thursday 8th June 2023
- A panel of International Judges will review all of the applications. They will shortlist projects for the final in each of the 3 categories.
- The 9 finalists will be announced during September 2023
- Finalists will avail of expert pitch training, hosted by the Centre for Excellence in Universal Design, in Autumn 2023
- Finalists, accompanied by your family and college representative, will attend the Live Universal Design Grand Challenge National Final Ceremony.
- Finalists will pitch their designs to the adjudicators and a winner in each category will be announced. The winners of the “People’s Choice” and the Enterprise Ireland “Universal Design for Commercialisation Award” shall also be announced.