DFGN Introduction Report

The Design Factory Global Network (DFGN) is an international community of innovation-driven hubs embedded in universities, research organizations, and other higher educational institutions.

The DFGN stands as a powerful example of how collaborative and interdisciplinary approaches can drive transformation in education, research, and society.

Through a commitment to innovation, passion-based learning, and global collaboration, DFGN continues to redefine the role of educational institutions in tackling real-world challenges.

With the first Design Factory launched in 2008 at Aalto University in Finland, the global network was created in 2011. It has since grown to encompass

39 26 across

Design Factories

countries

Each Design Factory is deeply committed to rethinking traditional education through passion-based, interdisciplinary collaboration and by emphasizing realworld problem-solving.

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Our culture is based on the passion that our community members bring to the things they do and the way they do it.

The network brings a safe space for educators trying to drive change in their communities, allowing them to push ideas forward with the network’s support and inspiration.

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Key Focus Areas DFGN’s initiatives and collaborative projects are grounded in several core focus areas that shape the activities and contributions of each Design Factory within the network

Interdisciplinary Collaboration Recognizing that complex problems require diverse perspectives, DFGN champions projects that bring together minds from different fields, fostering holistic, innovative solutions. Many Design Factories host teams that include engineers, designers, business professionals, and scientists, working in unison to solve multifaceted challenges.

Project-Based Learning DFGN places high value on experiential learning, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge through hands-on projects. Through these projects, students gain insights into practical problem-solving and are empowered to take ownership of real-world issues, which they often tackle collaboratively with industry partners or local communities.

Global Connectivity and Knowledge Sharing One of DFGN’s core strengths is its global reach, allowing members to collaborate beyond borders. This international connectivity fosters a thriving community where knowledge and best practices are freely shared, helping each Design Factory learn from the successes and lessons of others. Through international events and online platforms, DFGN nurtures a sense of belonging among its members, reinforcing a collaborative network.

Social Impact and Community Engagement A central aim of DFGN is to address social issues and empower local communities through education. Each Design Factory is encouraged to establish connections with its local community, developing projects that tackle relevant social issues, from sustainable practices to digital inclusion and mental health support.

Industry Engagement The network members hold collaborations with around 500 industry partners globally, with each partnership enhancing the relevancy and applicability of student and research projects. DFGN strives to ensure that the academic insights gained through projects are deeply connected to current market needs and technological advances, making student work immediately impactful.

DFGN-wide Annual Events

Several initiatives showcase DFGN’s commitment to fostering innovation, collaboration, and impact on a global scale. These initiatives allow network members to share best practices, drive cross-border collaboration, and contribute to the network’s overarching mission: re-think and re-do the way we educate future professionals.

International Design Factory Week (IDFW) This annual event is a cornerstone of DFGN, gathering members from around the world to collaborate, learn, and strategize. Hosted by a different Design Factory each year, IDFW enables institutions to immerse themselves in the local culture of the host country while working together to solve challenges, brainstorm new initiatives, and strengthen bonds within the network. The event not only fuels collaboration but also reinforces the sense of unity across Design Factories.

Design Factory. Why? (DF.Y?) Hosted at Aalto Design Factory, DF.Y? is an immersive experience for new Design Factories and network members to explore the Design Factory model and approach.

Participants engage in hands-on training to understand the culture, methodologies, and experimental mindset that defines DFGN. This event serves as an essential onboarding opportunity for institutions aiming to integrate or establish a Design Factory within their own organizations.

UnBoxed UnBoxed is a non-traditional conference focused on unboxing teaching practices relevant to the Design Factory Global Network (DFGN), inviting practitioners, experts, educators, and academics to collaborate. While primarily meant for the network’s member institutions, non-members may also join. This event is hosted together in the same week and location as the IDFW. Monthly Gatherings Hosted via Zoom, these online events now take place every month. Two of the network´s organizations plan and host each session, presenting ongoing projects or initiatives based on a theme, followed by an open discussion. The goal is to bring valuable topics to the network.

World Design Factory Day (WDFD) An annual virtual event where all DFGN members are invited to celebrate their work and share achievements with a global audience. WDFD showcases the diversity of projects and initiatives across the network, fostering pride and inspiration among members. The event has evolved into a valuable platform for sharing project results, discussing challenges, and celebrating collective successes.

The impact of the DFGN extends across education, industry, local partners, and communities.

In 2024 over 10,000 students and educators have participated in projects hosted by the community members, contributing to more than 1,000 impactful initiatives. By immersing students in real-world problem-solving, DFGN empowers the next generation of innovators and thinkers to make meaningful contributions to society.

Across the network, Design Factories have developed hundreds of prototypes addressing issues in healthcare, sustainability, digital inclusion, and more. These prototypes not only serve as practical solutions but also exemplify the network’s commitment to addressing real-world needs through design and innovation.

DFGN has established over 500 partnerships with the industry, providing students and researchers with direct exposure to real-world applications and enabling projects to transition smoothly from academia to the market. These collaborations have facilitated the creation of industry-aligned educational programs, job placements, and impactful community projects.

With Design Factories established in 25 countries, DFGN fosters a worldwide community of educators, innovators, and professionals. This global reach allows DFGN to scale impact in diverse contexts, addressing local needs through globally informed initiatives. From rural education support to urban resilience planning, DFGN’s projects are tailored to empower communities.

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Let’s keep working together!

Email: dfgn@aalto.fi Website: dfgn.org Instagram: @dfglobalnetwork LinkedIn: Design Factory Global Network

Compiled with care by:

Felipe Gárate

Vitória Freitas

Klaus Castren

Sara Figueiredo

Us