What does an iF Award submission cost?

Entry fees for the iF Award range, depending on category and company size, from approx. €400 to €1,500 per submission, with tiered early-bird fees. Our consulting fee for strategy, copy and presentation is additional – contact us for an individual quote.

When is the deadline for the iF Product Design Award 2026?

The submission deadlines for the iF Product Design Award are typically from October to January, with tiered fees – those who submit early pay less. We recommend starting at least 6–8 weeks before the deadline.

Which iF Award category is right for my product?

That depends on the product, target market and competition in the respective category. We analyse your product and recommend the category with realistically the best chances of winning.

iF Award won – what now?

An award only realises its value through use. We help you deploy the recognition in sales, brand communication and internally for employee motivation – over months, not just on the homepage.

What is the difference between the iF Award and Red Dot?

The iF Award is broader (also packaging, UX, architecture) and particularly strong in Asia. The Red Dot is the world's best-known design seal with a focus on product design. For many products it's worth entering both.

iF Design Award Consulting

iF Design Award Consulting & Submission 2026

Award Service advises companies on submitting the iF Design Award – from category selection and cost planning to submission copy and presentation kit. The iF Product Design Award is the oldest design award in the world and particularly strong in Asian markets. For companies with export ambitions, it is one of the most effective seals of quality. Since 2007 we have guided SMEs and startups through the entire iF submission process.

Request iF Award consulting

iF Design Award: The Oldest Design Award in the World

Since 1953, the iF Design Award has stood for outstanding design. Unlike some other awards, the iF is broadly positioned: alongside product design, it also recognises packaging, communication design, user interfaces and architecture. Especially in B2B and the premium segment that requires explanation, the iF seal is an established purchasing argument – and a strong trust signal in Asian markets.

We know the iF's submission logic and help you place your product in the right category and with the right story.

iF Award: The Most Important Disciplines

iF Product Design Award

The best-known discipline – for series products from all industries. The jury evaluates idea, form, function, differentiation and impact. Submission deadlines: typically October to January.

iF Communication Design

For brand identities, campaigns and digital communication – when not just the product, but the communication is to be recognised.

iF Packaging Design

For packaging that combines function, brand impact and sustainability. A discipline of its own, often with less competition than product design.

iF Service Design

For services, systems and service concepts – relevant for companies that design not just products, but entire user experiences.

iF Design Award – UX/UI & Digital

For digital products, apps and interfaces – a growing field with comparatively little competition.

iF Design Award – Startup Category

A dedicated category for young companies, with a reduced entry fee and international visibility.

iF Award Costs and Category Selection

Two questions determine effort and success: what does the submission cost – and in which category are the chances greatest?

Plan Costs Transparently
The iF entry fees vary depending on category, company size and time of registration (early-bird registrations cost less). We plan the budget together with you and show where the effort pays off.

Choose the Right Category
The category determines the jury – and therefore your chances. We analyse your product and recommend the category with the best balance of competition and visibility.

iF Award Submission: Our Tips and Services

From hundreds of submissions we know what matters. We take on as much as you need:

Category and strategy consulting – the right category for your product
Submission copy – idea and benefit to the point, in the language of the jury
Staged product photography and presentation kit – instead of unedited factory photos
Support after the win – we help you make the most of the award in marketing, sales and internally

Not sure whether your product is suitable? We'll assess it honestly in a free initial conversation.

Frequently asked questions

: Entry fees for the iF Award range, depending on category and company size, from approx. €400 to €1,500 per submission, with tiered early-bird fees. Our consulting fee for strategy, copy and presentation is additional – contact us for an individual quote.
: The submission deadlines for the iF Product Design Award are typically from October to January, with tiered fees – those who submit early pay less. We recommend starting at least 6–8 weeks before the deadline.
: That depends on the product, target market and competition in the respective category. We analyse your product and recommend the category with realistically the best chances of winning.
: An award only realises its value through use. We help you deploy the recognition in sales, brand communication and internally for employee motivation – over months, not just on the homepage.
: The iF Award is broader (also packaging, UX, architecture) and particularly strong in Asia. The Red Dot is the world's best-known design seal with a focus on product design. For many products it's worth entering both.

Plan Your iF Award Submission Now

The next iF submission deadlines start in autumn. Those who plan early benefit from lower early-bird fees and more lead time. We'll assess your chances free of charge and with no obligation.