Whether you want to expand your design skills or participate in an event, we offer a variety of initiatives and resources to strengthen and grow Detroit’s designers and design-driven businesses. Certain programs are available to members only.
PROGRAM
Design & Dine is a luncheon lecture series that offers a platform to share projects, industry expertise and trends with a wide audience. The series aims to promote members, connect designers and help attendees build a wide range of design-based skillsets. Topics cover a variety of subjects and are driven by member interest and demand. Must be a Plus and Premier level Design Network member to present. To to propose a presentation topic, send us an email.
PROGRAM
Client Services Boot Camp is an annual, six-session program based on the fundamentals of client service targeted to small- to medium-sized design companies and freelancers. In addition to workshops lead by industry professionals, attendees present their business pitch at the first and last session of the boot camp to help clarify their client offering and value proposition. Subscribe to our newsletter for up-to-date information on schedules and registration.
OPPORTUNITIES
Design Core and its partners share a variety of calls and opportunities for Detroit designers, locally and in the Creative Cities Network. As a UNESCO City of Design, we post and promote opportunities to participate in design competitions or apply for awards that adhere to the general principles set forth by the United Nations Creative Cities Network.
RESOURCE
One-on-one business consultations help design-driven entrepreneurs or small businesses access resources, strengthen their business and connect to professional services.
PROGRAM
A citywide celebration of creativity, Detroit Month of Design gathers designers and the greater community to celebrate Detroit’s role as a national and global design capital. Every September, partners across Detroit come together to show off their latest works and ideas. Applications to participate are open every year March-April.
OPPORTUNITIES
As stewards of Detroit’s UNESCO City of Design designation, we offer a variety of opportunities to Detroit’s design community throughout the year. From the Commerce Design Awards to Global Exchanges, we encourage you to learn more about the designation and the associated opportunities for Detroit’s design community.
E-BOOK
The Design Guide for Real Estate Development is a practical workbook to help developers address each part of the real estate development process and integrate local culture into projects authentically. Its purpose is to inspire collaboration between designers, developers and the community—leading to healthier, happier communities in Detroit and beyond.
E-BOOK
We believe the power of design can strengthen Detroit’s commercial corridors, and have a profound and lasting impact on the health and prosperity of our neighborhood business districts. This Design Guide aims to empower and inspire Detroit’s brick and mortar business owners with design information, examples, exercises and more.
RESOURCE
The College for Creative Studies Libraries have limited free research tools for all designers. Additionally, Detroit Design Network members can schedule appointments to use the Color and Materials Library for reference resources and material samples. Scheduling information is included in the membership welcome packet.
If you have more questions, or just want to introduce yourself, send us an email.
