Categories
Student and Emerging Maker categories
Divided into student and emerging practitioner categories, Future Makers covers a wide range of disciplines and recognises vision, innovation and excellence among students and recent graduates.
In 2026, the programme includes a €38,000 award fund plus a €26,000 mentoring investment, bringing the total support to €64,000.
All category winners also receive a mentorship package valued at €1,000, providing professional guidance alongside their financial award.
- Award fund – € 25000 increased to € 38,000
- Mentorship – 26 × € 1000 = €26,000
- Total – € 64,000
Awards and supports
Student and Recent Graduate
- Award Type | 2026
- Overall winner | 1 × €3000
- Sustainable Design Award | 1 × €1,500
- Materials Awards | 5 × €1000
- Travel & Training Awards | 4 × €1000
- Professional Development Awards | 3 × €1000
Emerging Maker Category
- Award Type | 2026
- Overall Winner | 1 × €4000
- Sustainable Design Award | 1 × €2,500
- Studio Awards | 4 × €1,500
- Residencies/Training Awards | 3 × €1,500
- Exhibition Awards | 3 × €1,500
Mentoring Package
The mentoring package aims to provide winners with opportunities that foster skill, enhancement, professional exposure and resource access. By empowering you with personalized guidance and valuable tools, DCCI ensures that you have everything you need to thrive in your creative journey. Valid for up to six months, the package reflects DCCI’s dedication to nurturing emerging talent and celebrating your accomplishments. The total value of the package is EUR 1,000 inclusive of VAT, or any additional costs.
- Applicants should provide a brief outline of intended learning outcomes from the mentorship as part of the application.
- Winners may choose up to two mentors based in Ireland only.
- The mentorship should take place during the six-month period from November 2026 to April 2027.
- A mentorship acknowledgement & payment form will be provided and the mentors will need to sign this.
Meet the 2o26 Judges
Future Makers applications are assessed by an expert panel selected by Design & Crafts Council Ireland, bringing together leading practitioners, designers, and educators from across craft and contemporary art. Judges include established makers and international voices who evaluate submissions based on excellence, innovation, and potential, ensuring a fair and rigorous selection process.
Learn more