Organisers say the award has been reshaped to reflect today’s economic realities, with a broader category system and a clear regional outlook. The aim is to spotlight creators and brands working in high value-added creative fields – including fashion, design, beauty and gaming – while reinforcing Hungary’s role within the wider Central European creative economy.

The structure of the awards balances the promotion of Hungarian strengths with cross-border cooperation. Several categories are open exclusively to Hungarian applicants: Fashion Design of the Year, Product Design of the Year, Gaming Graphic Design of the Year, and Beauty Package Design of the Year. These are intended to boost the international profile of domestic designers and brands.

Other categories focus on people and partnerships. Young Talent of the Year highlights emerging professionals, while Collaboration of the Year recognises successful joint projects. A dedicated regional category is open to creators and companies from Austria, the Czech Republic, Croatia, Poland, Romania, Slovakia and Slovenia, encouraging professional links across Central Europe.

The programme also includes a Lifetime Achievement Award for an influential Hungarian creative career, and an Audience Choice Award decided by public vote. Winners will be selected by the Hungarian Creative Industry Council, with input from established Hungarian and international industry experts.

Category winners will receive the award along with gross financial support of HUF 1.5 million. Applications are open from 26 January to 26 February, with the awards ceremony scheduled for May.

According to the organisers, the focus is on creative quality, innovation, thoughtful design and professional depth, while remaining open to independent works, collaborations and new talent.

In the official announcement, Creative Hungary’s CEO and Government Commissioner for Creative Industry Development, Zsófia Jakab, said the goal is to create a regional reference point that presents Central Europe’s creative achievements within a shared framework.
 

She added that the renewal of the Hungarian Design Award places equal weight on market relevance, innovation and long-term impact, alongside aesthetics. Beyond professional recognition, the new awards are intended to act as a quality benchmark with economic significance, drawing attention to export-ready brands and initiatives that strengthen regional competitiveness.

More:
Central European Creative Awards

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