The Bienenstock Furniture Library launches an industrywide fundraising campaign to support its inaugural Future Designers Summit, scheduled for Sept. 20-22, 2021.
The fall conference is billed as an educational experience for future design leaders focused in furnishings, textiles, lighting, interiors, architecture and related products.
U.S.-based students will submit applications by Feb. 28 for a maximum of 50 available spots, to be announced in April. In addition to the application, students submit an essay envisioning their future role in design, provide examples from their portfolios, and secure a professor recommendation.
“The future of our industry requires that we engage and nurture young talent now,” says Karla Jones, executive director, Bienenstock Furniture Library. Speaking on behalf of the non-profit organization’s executive committee and board of directors, she adds, “Our mission is to empower students to reach the full height of their creative potential by exposing them to a variety of opportunities within the industry before they graduate.”
Participants will have access to a curated educational program and networking activities. The three-day schedule includes an opening reception, a roster of keynote speakers, manufacturing and other facility tours, and breakout sessions moderated by industry professionals.
Event sponsors and contributors help to offset the costs of travel, accommodations and meals for each student attendee, as well as to cover expenses for program development and marketing.
A variety of contribution levels are outlined, including company sponsorships and individual donations. Early commitments at the company sponsorship levels include Broyhill Family Foundation, Davis Furniture, Otto & Moore, Inc., Furniture World magazine, Savour Partnership, and the Tomlinson group of furniture brands.
Friends of the Library commitments include Cohab Space, Congdon Yards, Eicholz, Fairfield, High Point Theatre, High Point Visitors Bureau, HPxD, Phillips Collection and Verellen.
To learn more about the event and sponsorship levels, and to make online payments using the library’s PayPal account, visit the Future Designers Summit page located on the Bienenstock Furniture Library website.
