PARTNERING FOR IMPACT!

The WDCD Accelerator supports designers and creative entrepreneurs in refining their creative climate solutions and boosting their impact for a circular transition. This mission is supported by several international partners from media platforms to global design brands, governments, philanthropic organizations, and individuals, who provide funding and other resources in support of  social and climate justice by design.  

RENÉ VAN GEER

FOUNDER | SECRID

THE TOPICS WHAT DESIGN CAN DO FOCUSSES ON, SUCH AS CIRCULARITY AND THE INFLUENCE OF DESIGN ON SOCIETY AND THE WORLD, MAKES THEM THE PERFECT PARTNER FOR US.

At the heart of everything we do is a design philosophy that places quality, people and planet before more typical goalposts like speed or profit. For example: instead of ‘cheaper and worse’, Secrid is only makes new products if they are intrinsically ‘better, more sustainable and more valuable’ than those that came before. This means developing materials and designs that are long-lasting, repairable and that can be produced as locally as possible.

Our Impact

The WDCD Accelerator has supported 77 design teams over seven years, empowering thousands of creative entrepreneurs across Kenya, Tokyo, Mexico, India, Hong Kong, Istanbul, and Brazil to address urgent local issues. With over 4,000 submissions, a global reach of 10M+, and measurable impact in pollutive industries, our methodology helps transform ideas into impact-driven businesses. Leveraging a decade of experience, international partnerships, and a network of 200,000+ creatives, we connect designers with organizations to amplify innovative climate solutions.

 

LIZ MCKEON

DIRECTOR | PLANET AT IKEA FOUNDATION

BECOME A MISSION PARTNER

 

Would you like to collaborate with us? Becoming a mission partner with WDCD means, supporting design innovators from all around the world who are developing creative climate solutions. From rebellious visions that shake up the status quo of destructive industries, to imaginative strategies that connect the wisdom of the past with present technology and help people envision a future we actually want to live in. By partnering with us for the 2025 edition, you contribute to transformative change across industries like fashion, food, and urban development. Your support helps scale impactful solutions and position your organization as a leader in the drive toward regenerative societies

  • 1. Join the network of innovators & experts

    All Accelerator partners are immediately part of the What Design Can Do community and all activities organised in 2025. Join the global WDCD community in 2025 and connect with designers, innovators, and industry leaders across six countries: The Netherlands, Brazil, India, Kenya, Mexico, and Turkey. Stay ahead of global trends, energize your organization with a creative mindset, and access exclusive opportunities like a seat on the international jury for global strategic partners.

  • 2. Access to the creative climate solutions globally

    Gain access to thousands of emerging talents from over 80 countries, collaborate with startups to co-create impactful climate solutions and invest in initiatives aligned with your strategic goals. Keep your organisation at the forefront of innovation by engaging with cutting-edge technologies, materials, techniques, and interdisciplinary movements.

  • 3. Position your organisation as a thought leader

    Your sustainability vision is at the core of our partnership. Together, we’ll engage with organisations and the creative community in the geographic area or industry of your choice. Lead by hosting sessions for winners during Sprint Week, delivering keynotes at WDCD Live events in Amsterdam, Delhi, and Mexico City, and mentoring in the online learning program. Position your organisation as a thought leader in the creative and sustainability sectors.

  • 4. Gain international visibility in the circular design field

    Enjoy international visibility in all Accelerator communications, events and publications in leading media. Your brand gets ample exposure to the WDCD followers and partner network by being part of a multimedia campaign that positions your brand in front of an engaged audience.

  • 5. Expand your environmental and social impact area

    We keep track of the results and impact achieved through the WDCD Accelerator and provide you with a full report

SHAPE YOUR PARTNERSHIP FORMAT

CONTACT US

FUNDING PARTNER

For the new WDCD Accelerator, we seek visionary funding partners committed to supporting the next generation. As key program partners, organizations and leaders gain recognition in creativity and sustainability. Invest globally or in your city, country, or industry.

NETWORK PARTNER

To recruit the best creative climate solutions, we aim to reach as many designers and entrepreneurs as possible. As a network partner, you can support this outreach by sharing the call, featuring past winners or the WDCD team in your events, and helping us reach a wider audience.

KNOWLEDGE PARTNER

Every winning team has different needs. Our knowledge partners help us by offering their expertise by hosting masterclasses, opening their studios, mentoring or supporting the winners as advisors in their acceleration journey. You can contribute to climate action by offering your expertise to this programme.

Our partners