Launched in 2010, this established competition has seen tens of thousands of students taking part and this is your chance to join them. The design brief for 2020 is set out by London-based artist and designer, Yinka Ilori, whose bright and vibrant work is sure to inspire you.

Here’s the brief he’s setting you:

• Working in teams of 4 to 6, allocate roles, make the most of your individual skills and talents and work as a team, listening to and supporting each other.
• Design a product that improves everyday life.
• Focus on a specific target audience – adult design enthusiasts, young people and students, or families.
• Research your target audience – what are their needs, interests and purchasing habits?
• Design a product that will cost no more than £10 to buy. Remember, this is a business and design competition, so you want to design something appealing and profitable. Aim for a maximum spend of £5 per item for manufacturing and packaging.
• Think about how you can ensure your product is ethical and sustainable.

If your team is lucky – and skilled – enough to get through to the top ten, you will be invited to pitch your design idea at Deutsche Bank London’s head office in March 2021 – a unique opportunity to show off your amazing design and put your communication skills to the test! The winning team will be announced at an event at the Design Museum itself.

Click here to register for Design Ventura.

The online project guide includes a wealth of resources to help you research, design, refine and pitch your product.

If you are from an international or independent school, contact Design Ventura to find out about the challenge devised for you.

And if you are in years 7 or 8, you have not been left out – autumn 2020 will see Design Ventura holding online mini challenges especially for you.

Best of luck, everyone!