About
About
About DesignThinkers
DesignThinkers is Canada’s largest graphic design conference. It brings together visionaries from a range of disciplines to explore creativity, the design process, the future of design and design thinking.
What attendees have to say
“I love how there is always a variety of things to do and see! And I also appreciate that the talks are recorded and available later so I don’t have to worry about missing any.”
“Being a corporate in-house designer, I love that this conference brings together like-minded people from around the world who have influenced the world of design. I love that I can learn about emerging trends and be inspired by new (and sometimes old) ideas. I love that speakers often challenge conventional ways of thinking.”
“Like every year, I love connecting with others in our industry, learning and getting inspired. I like that there’s always the option to choose between talks and workshops to split up the day.”
“Absolutely loved this event. The location was amazing and really gave me a good first impression of Toronto without feeling overwhelmed. I went to AdobeMax a few years ago and felt like the organization/event was on par with it.”
Vancouver
May 26–27, 2026
The Vancouver Playhouse
600 Hamilton Street Vancouver, BC
Toronto
October 20–21, 2026
Meridian Hall
1 Front St E
Toronto, ON
Travelling to the Conference
Access city-specific venue information, accommodation details, transportation options and other helpful travel information. We can’t wait to see you.
About RGD
The Association of Registered Graphic Designers (RGD) is Canada’s largest professional association for graphic design professionals, with 4,400 Members including firm owners, freelancers, managers, in-house designers, educators and students. Through the RGD, Canadian designers exchange ideas, educate and inspire, set professional standards, and build a strong, supportive community dedicated to advocating for the value of design.
Our vision is for a graphic design profession that is broadly valued for its contribution to life, commerce and society.
Media Inquiries
Interested in covering DesignThinkers at your outlet? Email Rebecca at [email protected] to inquire about a media pass.
Past Conferences
Now in its 27th year, DesignThinkers has a long history of inspiring, connecting and affirming creative communicators from around the world. The conference has welcomed hundreds of speakers and thousands of attendees since its inception.
FAQ
Combo tickets include RGD Affiliate Membership with a ticket to DesignThinkers. Once you purchase your Combo ticket, you will receive the regular conference confirmation email plus additional information on activating your Affiliate Membership.
Yes, all presentations are recorded, and all tickets receive access to the recordings for 3 months after the event. Become an RGD Member to receive indefinite access to the recordings and our extensive video library.
In-person tickets receive access to the sessions on both days (in-person and streaming), roundtable discussions, a designer marketplace, a delegate party and the conference recordings for 3 months after the event. Streaming tickets receive access to the sessions on both days (streaming only), virtual roundtable discussions, a virtual designer marketplace and the conference recordings for 3 months after the event.
Registrants will receive a detailed email about attending DesignThinkers approximately one week before the event. The email includes how to log in to the event platform, how to view session recordings and what to expect when you arrive at the venue if you are attending in-person. Please check your spam and junk folders to make sure you aren’t missing any important information from us.
