International design competition for students from design-oriented and creative degree programmes

Under the competition title "Glass can ...", participants are called upon to emphasise the special properties of glass and, where possible, to create connections to other raw materials.

Participants are allowed to incorporate their creativity and individuality into their designs and can put the knowledge, skills and techniques they have learnt during their studies into practice. The Glass Design Award gives participants space to research and experiment, allowing them to explore the limits of what is possible.

Entries can be artistic or product design orientated. Participants of all nationalities and genders are welcome and invited to take part in the competition!

The 4th Glass Design Award is endowed with 10,000 euros in prize money.

Official call for entries (PDF)

Practical experience in product development and project work

Valuable tips and help from the professionals for practical implementation in the hut

Financial support for realisation from the Gerhard Bürger Foundation

Use of the Harzkristall glassworks production facility in Derenburg (free of charge for students)

Establishing connections with product developers and in the glass scene

Combination of theory in lectures and practice in development

Attractive prize money and winnings

Utilising existing sales channels and profit sharing on sales

Registration period until 28.02.2026

Arrival of the glass objects by 31.03.2026

Decision rounds in May - June 2026

Ceremonial presentation of the jury prizes in August 2026

Exhibition from September 2026 to January 2027

Please address any enquiries to:

Felix Busch, Project Coordination Glass Design Award

039453 680 - 11

stiftung@harzkristall.de