The open call for events is open from March 3, 2025 – April 20, 2025 11:59 EST. The open call for venue hosts is open from Monday, March 3, 2025 - Friday, June 7, 2025 at 11:59 PM EST.

This year’s theme, "City of Design," celebrates the 10th anniversary of Detroit’s designation as a UNESCO City of Design. It highlights how cities in the UNESCO Creative Cities Network use design to tackle one or more of the United Nations' 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). We encourage submissions that showcase how Detroit designers are addressing these global challenges locally.

Events and experiences are independently funded, managed, and implemented by the event organizer. Design Core does not offer micro-grants for independent happenings. We recommend having a plan in place to attain the financial and technical support needed to execute your event, experience, or installation.

Self Promotion Spread the Word: Be sure to let your community know about your event! Be sure you're marketing your event to family, friends and the people in your life. Event Listings: Submit your event listing on the official Detroit Month of Design Calendar to local event calendars and newsletters for maximum visibility. Engaging Content: Create high-quality images, teaser videos, and behind-the-scenes content to share with your audience to generate excitement. Hashtags & Tags: Use #DetroitMonthofDesign and tag @DesignCoreDet on social media to connect with the festival’s audience. Accessibility Venue Transparency: Clearly communicate any accessibility restrictions (e.g., stairs, lack of ramps, limited seating) in your event description so attendees can plan accordingly. Alternative Options: If your venue has limitations, consider offering a virtual component or sharing recordings. Communication & Signage: Provide clear directions, signage, and consider captioning or ASL interpretation for panels, talks or presentations. Sensory Considerations: If your event includes loud sounds, flashing lights, or crowded spaces, give attendees a heads-up in advance. Restroom Access: Self-explanatory, but very important. Ensure guests know what to expect—Are restrooms gender-inclusive? Are they located on the same level as the event? Will attendees need a key or code? If restrooms are limited or unavailable, provide alternatives nearby. Logistics Tech & Equipment: Ensure you have AV setup, Wi-Fi, and backup solutions for presentations or digital elements. Staffing & Volunteers: Who will manage check-in, facilitate discussions, or handle last-minute needs? Weather Backup: If your event is outdoors, have a contingency plan in case of bad weather. Permits & Approvals: Do you need city permits, vendor licenses, or other approvals for your event? This won't apply to the majority of our events, but it's good to know in advance if it does!

Applications will be reviewed by our intersectional curatorial committee and selected based on the following criteria: Creativity Authenticity to Detroit Compelling storytelling Collaboration Feasibility Social Impact Alignment with one or more of the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

Detroit Month of Design applicants are not limited to one submission. Please fill out a new application to be considered for other opportunities.

Submissions are open to the public. We welcome submissions from all backgrounds, ages, levels of profession, and communities. We place an emphasis on showcasing Detroit talent, but are open to submissions from regional, national and international designers, brands and organizations as well.

Health & Safety Guidelines: All in-person events will follow State of Michigan guidelines for group gatherings. Design Core is committed to creating a safe festival experience, which may include: Timed ticketed entry for indoor events Private tours of exhibitions Virtual streaming options Outdoor experiences No-touch installations Mask requirements & social distancing Enhanced sanitation practices We also ask that all in-person events require advance registration to ensure a safe and organized experience.

No, there is no application fee to apply for Detroit Month of Design. However, there is a $75 participation fee that you will have to pay if your application is accepted. This fee supports costs associated with the festival production and event promotion. As part of our commitment to equity, inclusion and accessibility, this $75 event organizer fee is heavily subsidized by Design Core and reflects only a small fraction of the true cost of producing the festival. Thank you to the philanthropic funders and sponsors who make this possible.

Yes, independent event organizers are responsible for securing a space to host their in-person or outdoor events. We ask that venues interested in Month of Design Programming apply to the Open Call as well so that Design Core can try to match designers with venues when possible. However, there is no guarantee of placement.

Each event receives one calendar listing, displaying the start date. Additional dates and details will be included on your event web page.