Membership in the German Design Council

Leveraging Design Strategically. Creating Measurable Impact.

Die Formate

Design Connects. And Shapes Tomorrow.

Seeking inspiration and exchange on key future topics, including the Circular Economy, Transformation, and Responsible Business? We connect our members across industries in Expert Groups, online talks and events with leading partners from business and design. This is where knowledge with impact emerges – for sustainable design and successful brand development within the international design community in Germany.

Upcoming Dates

Which future topics would you like to explore in more depth? Our events provide focused insights, enable meaningful exchange and connect you with experts from business and design.

Members Talk

Online
with Birgit Mager, President of Service Design Network Mager, Präsidentin Service Design Network
04.12.2025
14:00 - 15:00  o'clock

Members Talk - "Cultivating Connection"

Online
with Emily Gordon-Smith, Content Director, Stylus
20.11.2025
14:00 - 15:00  o'clock

Design Gala 2025

Soho House, Berlin
German Design Council
06.11.2025
18:00 - 22:30  o'clock
Connecting People

Design Gala

An evening of exchange and inspiration: At the Design Gala in Berlin's Soho House, we celebrate The Major German Brands and the Newcomer Finalists of the German Design Awards.

Become a Member

Where Design Drives Strategic Impact.

The German Design Council Foundation brings together companies that use design as a strategic tool. As a member, you gain access to knowledge, dialogue and a network shaping transformation across industries.

Benefits of Your Membership

As a member of the German Design Council Foundation, you gain direct access to a strong network of representatives from design, business, politics and culture. Your membership creates visibility, exchange and opportunities for co-creation for organisations that see design as a key competence for long-term success.

Access to Knowledge & Networks

  • Exchange on equal footing with more than 300 companies, institutions and experts. Discover members
  • Participation in Members Talks, Expert Circles and Design Insights. 
  • Current topics covering transformation, sustainability and brand management. 
  • Benefit from insights, studies and formats on circular design – from regulatory developments to best practices.

Visibility & Positioning

  • Presentation of your company on the Foundation’s website – including a backlink. 
  • Use of the official member logo in your communications. 
  • Visibility in publications such as The Major German Brands as well as at events and our awards.

Events & Benefits

  • Invitations to selected events, conferences and networking formats. 
  • Reduced fees for events organised by the Foundation. 
  • Preferential conditions for publications and selected formats.

Voice & Co-Creation

  • Voting rights at the Foundation’s General Assembly. 
  • Participation in initiatives, studies and thematic working groups. 
  • Active contribution to a strong voice for design in business and society.

Membership Fee

The membership fee is based on the size of your company and includes all membership services. Membership is company-based, not personal.

Company Size

Annual Fee

up to 50 employees

1.950,00 €

up to 500 employees

3.750,00 €

up to 1.000 employees

4.000,00 €

up to 10.000 employees

4.250,00 €

over 10.000 employees

7.000,00 €


Upon admission, a one-off admission fee of €1,500 applies. Admission of new members is decided by the General Assembly following submission of a written application.

Your Path into

The German Design Council Network

Membership connects you with companies and designers who use design as a strategic driver. You gain access to knowledge, exchange and visibility. Together, we develop design solutions that are economically effective and future-ready – from circular design to brand strategy.

Next steps: 
Personal conversation · Application · Admission

Membership fees are based on company size. A one-off admission fee applies upon confirmation.

Enquire About Membership

Contact

Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions.

Manuel Romero Reinstein

Key Account Manager Foundation

Julia Voigtländer

Vice President Foundation-Development & Strategy