The programme for professionals
The industry event where urgent societal, technological and economic challenges take centre stage.
Are you a designer or do you work on one of the five missions through research, policy, business, education or a societal organisation? Mission Days offer the opportunity to explore issues connected to your field, expertise and ambitions alongside like-minded people. Meet professionals from different disciplines working towards the same mission, exchange knowledge and experiences and discover new perspectives on shared challenges. This creates valuable connections, unexpected crossovers and opportunities to continue working together.
Explore each day’s theme, full programme and practical information.
Which Mission Day is right for you?
Whether you are a designer, researcher, policymaker, entrepreneur or another professional, Mission Days allow you to explore the mission that aligns with your work and interests. Meet like-minded people working on the same societal challenge and discover new perspectives and opportunities for collaboration across different fields. Explore each day’s theme, full programme and practical information.
Monday 19 October | Living environment
How can we design neighbourhoods, buildings, mobility and materials that contribute to a liveable environment?
This Mission Day explores the places where we live and work, how we move around and the materials we use to shape our surroundings. Talks, in-depth sessions and meet-ups examine topics such as sustainable construction, broad prosperity, mobility and the development of future-proof cities and regions from different perspectives.
For who? This day is relevant to designers and professionals working in fields including architecture, construction, urban and regional development, mobility and material development. Policymakers, municipalities, housing associations, knowledge institutions and organisations working on infrastructure or public space will also find like-minded people, new insights and potential collaborators.
Tuesday 20 October | Thriving planet
How can design strengthen the Earth’s natural resilience and create space for regeneration?
This Mission Day focuses on the transition towards systems, products and materials that deplete less and give more back. Talks, sessions and meet-ups explore topics including circularity, regenerative design, biodiversity and new ways of valuing resources and knowledge.
For who? The day is relevant to professionals working in the circular economy, energy, agriculture, water and food. Designers, material developers, manufacturing companies, researchers, environmental organisations and policymakers working on climate adaptation, supply chains or waste and resource flows can also share knowledge and forge new connections.
Wednesday 21 October | Digital futures
How can we shape digital developments, from artificial intelligence and virtual worlds to platforms and personal experiences?
During this Mission Day, we explore not only what technology makes possible, but also who has influence over it and which values we want to embed in it. Talks, research presentations and meet-ups create space for questions about human-centred technology, data, digital autonomy, accessibility and the societal impact of digital systems.
For who? This day brings together designers and professionals working in fields including technology, artificial intelligence, media, gaming and the creative industries. Researchers, developers, policymakers and organisations working on digital services, cybersecurity or ethics will also find new perspectives on designing our digital world.
Thursday 22 October | Health & wellbeing
How can design contribute to better care, healthier food, greater wellbeing and a healthier society?
How can design contribute to better care, healthier food, greater wellbeing and a healthier society? This Mission Day explores how products, services and systems can better reflect people’s everyday lives and diverse needs. Talks, sessions and meet-ups address topics including regional healthcare, prevention, personal agency and collaboration between patients, professionals and organisations.
For who? The day is relevant to designers and professionals working in healthcare, food, medical technology and wellbeing. Healthcare organisations, researchers, public authorities, insurers and companies working on health, behaviour or healthy living environments can also exchange knowledge and meet partners to develop new solutions together.
Friday 23 October | Equal society
How can we design systems and interactions centred around safety, inclusivity, connection and equality?
This Mission Day explores how design can contribute to a society in which everyone can participate and is valued. Talks, premieres and meet-ups address topics including inclusive systems, accessible services, the relationship between policy and practice and collaboration between designers, industry and public organisations.
For who? This day is relevant to designers and professionals working in the public sector, education, the cultural and creative industries and the social sector. Policymakers, societal organisations, researchers and companies working on inclusion, safety, equal opportunities or citizen participation will also meet people from other disciplines working towards the same mission.
“The involvement of so many different organisations was truly energising. It felt as though together we were setting something in motion that went beyond a single conference.”
