Innovation by Design Challenge 2026 - applications

The Innovation by Design Challenge is back with a new intercantonal dimension. For this edition, the cantons of Vaud and Valais are bringing together their creative and entrepreneurial ecosystems for an intensive two-day design sprint.

Do you represent a startup or a company and want to rethink your product or service from a design perspective? This Challenge offers you the opportunity to collaborate, experiment, and explore new avenues.

Since 2017, the Innovation by Design Challenge has brought together designers, engineers, researchers, and entrepreneurs to make design a true tool for transformation and innovation.

This year, ECAL, PRISM, the City of Renens, the Canton of Vaud, the Canton of Valais, EPFL, and Pro Helvetia are joining forces to highlight the role of design in developing innovative solutions.

Program

• Design Sprint: November 2 and 9, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., in Renens
• Pitch Night: November 18, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
• Prizes and Compensation
• Jury Prize: CHF 15,000
• Audience Prize: CHF 5,000
• Compensation of CHF 1,400 for designers participating in the workshop