GIA Excellence in Student Design Awards
Scholarship Sponsored by International Housewares Association
In 1993, the IHA initiated the Student Design Competition with the aim of injecting new and innovative ideas into the housewares industry from top student designers. The competition also serves as a platform to inspire young talents to explore career opportunities in the housewares sector. Now in its 33rd year, the IHA competition stands out in the U.S. as the longest-standing, industry-backed, merit-based recognition scheme for industrial design students.
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
The competition is open to both undergraduate and postgraduate students pursuing industrial design in any degree-offering institution across North America and other countries. Students graduating in Spring 2025 are also eligible, provided their project was finalized prior to graduation. Multiple project submissions by a single student are permitted. Team projects are also acceptable. In the event of a team project winning, IHA will cover travel expenses for one student, while the cash prize will be divided among the team members.
The student who submits the application must confirm and attest that the named entrant is the original creator and owner of the application and all related materials submitted for the competition's evaluation.
PRIZE DETAILS
- The judges will distribute $12,000 in cash prizes, with an additional $3,000 being donated to the winners' respective schools.
- The winning projects will be showcased at The Inspired Home Show, which will take place from March 10-12, 2026, at McCormick Place, Chicago.
- Winners will be provided with travel, daily allowances, and accommodation for five nights (from Sunday, March 8 to Thursday, March 12). IHA will bear the cost of economy-class round-trip flights to and from Chicago, up to a maximum of $1,000. Winners must be available for the exhibit and media interactions.
- Winners will be informed via email by January 30, 2026.
- Those receiving Honorable Mentions will be awarded a small cash prize. Attendance at the Show is not mandatory for them.