SDF 2026: IN[FLUX] Call for Proposals – Seattle Design Festival

1. Introduction

The Seattle Design Festival (SDF) is open for proposals for the year 2026, with the theme IN[FLUX], which recognizes the constant transition and evolution of the city of Seattle.

2. Presentation

SDF is a platform for bold design conversations, grounded in the belief that design is for everyone and that inclusive co-design practices are essential for creating an equitable Seattle. The festival is multidisciplinary, socially engaged, and civic-oriented.

3. About the Project

The theme IN[FLUX] explores the forces shaping the city, including movement and stability, structure and experimentation, agreement and disagreement. The festival invites the community to examine how design operates within these conditions and how it can help imagine what comes next.

4. Schedule

April 9: Design Mixer @ citizenM SLU
May 7: Design Mixer @ citizenM SLU
May 19: Design Mixer @ Smith Tower
May 27: Call for Proposals deadline
June 5: Festival Acceptance Notification
June 15: Final Marketing Materials Submission
July 30: SDF Partner Social
August 14: Built Installations Load-In @ Lake Union Park
August 15–16: SDF Block Party
August 20: Closing Celebration

5. Awards

The festival offers awards for outstanding projects, including:
1st Place: $1,000.00, marketing benefits, and exposure opportunities
2nd Place: $500.00, marketing benefits, and exposure opportunities
3rd Place: $250.00, marketing benefits, and exposure opportunities

6. Jury

The jury is composed of members of the festival planning team, who evaluate proposals based on criteria such as thematic alignment, design thinking, community empowerment, collaboration, and the promotion of interdisciplinary design.

Official Link:

https://seadesignfest.org/participate/sdf-2026-influx-call-for-proposals/