GIA Excellence in Student Design Awards

Scholarship Sponsored by International Housewares Association

In 1993, the International Housewares Association (IHA) established the Student Design Competition with the aim of infusing the housewares industry with innovative ideas 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's competition stands out in the United States as the longest-running, industry-sponsored, merit-recognition program specifically for industrial design students.

Eligibility Criteria

The competition is open to both undergraduate and graduate students pursuing industrial design in any degree-granting institution across North America and other countries. Students graduating in Spring 2025 are eligible to participate, provided their project was completed prior to graduation. A student may submit multiple projects, and team projects are also accepted. In the event of a team project winning, IHA will cover travel expenses for one student, and the cash prize will be divided among the team members.

It is important to note that the student submitting the application must affirm that they are the original creator and owner of the application and all materials submitted for the competition.

Prize Details

• The judges will distribute $12,000 in cash prizes among the winners. An additional $3,000 will be donated to the winners' respective schools.
• The winning projects will be showcased at The Inspired Home Show, scheduled to 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 cover economy-class flight costs up to $1,000 for a round trip to and from Chicago. Winners must be available for the exhibit and media interactions.
• Winners will be notified via email by January 30, 2026.
• Projects that receive Honorable Mentions will be awarded a small cash prize. These participants are not required to attend the Show.