Dame Designs Awards 2026 charity beneficiary applications are now open.

Applications Now Open

Applications are now open for charities seeking to become the beneficiary of the DAME Design Awards 2026 charitable donation, an initiative linked to the annual Metstrade Show in Amsterdam.

Each year, the total registration fees from the DAME Design Awards are donated to a selected charity as part of the Metstrade community’s commitment to giving back to society.

Metstrade Selection Committee

The Metstrade Committee carefully selects a charity – or in some cases two charities – whose work aligns with the broader interests and values of the international marine industry.

Eligible organisations are invited to submit their applications by 10 April 2026. The chosen charity will receive both a financial contribution and valuable exposure to the global marine sector, helping to raise awareness of their mission within the wider boating community.

DAME Design Awards 2026 Charity Beneficiary Applications Now Open #2

A Wide Range of Causes

Since the initiative began in 2008, more than €304,000 has been donated to charities supporting a wide range of social and environmental causes.

The selected charity or charities will be announced in mid-June 2026, with the official donation presented during the Metstrade Official Opening on 17 November 2026 in Amsterdam.

Dame Charities Over the Years (2008-2024)

2024: SailWise
2023: The Magenta Project
2022: World Sailing Trust
2021: Blue Marine Foundation – To Protect Our Ocean
2019: Sailing4Handicaps & The Little Optimist
2018: The Blue Marine Foundation & Wetwheels Foundation
2017: Sailing Kids & VOKK
2016: AMREF Flying Doctors*
2015: Sailability
2014: AMREF Flying Doctors*
2013: Sailability & Freedom Waters
2012: AMREF Flying Doctors*
2011: Stichting Sailing Kids
2010: Whisper Boat Building Academy
2009: AMREF Flying Doctors 2008: International Federation of Disabled Sailing (IFDS)

^{* From 2012 to 2016, AMREF Flying Doctors, the international charity supported by RAI Amsterdam – received the DAME donation every other year.}

Apply via the DAME Design Awards Website

Charities interested in applying are encouraged to submit their proposals before the deadline to be considered for this year’s award here

For more ICOMIA News & Updates, follow this link

DAME Design Awards 2026 Charity Beneficiary Applications Now Open