35th anniversary edition of the DAME Design Awards launches search for official charity partner

Through this partnership, Metstrade will continue to increase its social impact and provide a platform for a charity that aligns with the core values of the awards: promoting authentic progress in all aspects of design development including innovation, ease of use and sustainability.

“The leisure marine sector faces major challenges and opportunities. The DAME Design Awards encourages all leisure marine equipment manufacturers to produce designs that brilliantly fulfil their objectives, grow markets and contribute to a better future. That is why we are looking for a charity that wants to make an impact together with us,” said Tessa Meijer, Exhibition Programme Manager, Metstrade.

The selected charity will receive

• A significant financial grant comprising 100% of all participant fees collected for the 2026 DAME Design Awards
• Exposure at Metstrade 2026, the world's largest trade fair for the leisure marine industry
• A display within Metstrade 2026 in one of the key high footfall feature areas of the show within RAI Amsterdam
• Access to an international network of innovators, companies, and decision-makers
• A year of visibility through the communication channels of Metstrade and the DAME Design Awards
• Opportunities for storytelling, fundraising, and collaboration with the sector

Charities active in the fields of ocean health, sustainability, workforce development, inclusion, participation and technological innovation are welcome to apply by [DATE] 2026. Applications must be submitted online at https://www.damedesignawards.com/charity.

Evidence of impact

DAME Design Awards’ entrants have generated donations totalling €304,000 for 15 carefully assessed organisations since the introduction of entry fees in 2008. In 2025 The Ocean Conservation Trust was presented with a grant of €21,900 to support the restoration and growth of sea grass for the oceans.

Metstrade fully funds the DAME Design Awards with the twin objectives of making a significant contribution to the development of the marine leisure industry and to ensure that 100% of all entry fees are applied directly to good causes. The final choice of DAME Design Awards charitable beneficiary each year is made by the Metstrade Exhibition Committee, comprising leisure marine industry leaders who represent the interests of all exhibiting participants at the show.

Timeline and how to apply

• Application deadline: 10 April 2026
• Selected charity announced: beginning of June
• Donation presented: during the Metstrade opening ceremony at RAI Amsterdam on 17 November 2026.

Apply online at https://www.damedesignawards.com/charity.