June 25-28, 2026
Bending Spoons HQ, Milan
Spend three days in Milan learning from experienced Spooners and competing as one of 20 dazzlingly talented young product designers.
Applications are open until
January 26, 2026
25 – 28 June 2026
Bending Spoons HQ, Milan
At First Design, you’ll take on an individual challenge that showcases your creativity, problem-solving, and product-thinking in action.
We’ll give you a brief for a new mobile or web product—then it’s on you to design the most thoughtful, intuitive, and stunning solution you can from scratch.
Throughout the challenge, you’ll receive guidance from incredible product designers, helping you stretch your creativity and sharpen your digital-design thinking.
During the event, each participant will be mentored be an experienced product designer from Bending Spoons—creative experts who shape digital products used by millions around the world.
Mentors will be revealed soon.
Each of the 20 participating designers will enjoy an all-expenses-paid trip to Milan to take part in the challenge.
The three winners will take home a total of €10,000 in prizes.
1st
€5,000
2nd
€3,000
3rd
€2,000
Prove your skills.
Put your skills to the ultimate product design test on a secret challenge designed by Bending Spoons.
Expand your network.
Meet, connect with, and get inspired by other talented young product designers from across Europe.
Earn recognition & Rewards.
Bending Spoons is offering €10,000 in total prize money to the top three winners.
All expenses PAID.
From travel and hotel to food and activities, everything is top quality and covered by Bending Spoons.
Bending Spoons was founded in 2013 and is based in Milan, Italy. We've served over a billion people across the globe through our suite of digital technology products, including Brightcove, Evernote, komoot, Meetup, Remini, StreamYard, WeTransfer, and many others. To find out more about Bending Spoons, head to our website.
First Design is for students and young professionals who are from or based in Europe, are over 18, and can demonstrate a passion for product design.
Applications remain open until January 26, 2026.
The selection process takes place entirely online, and we’ll announce the successful applicants by the
end of April 2026.
Selection process
Our data-informed selection process ensures that every participant is extraordinarily bright, passionate, and skillful. Each step is carefully crafted to guarantee that your talent has the opportunity to shine.
Thursday, June 25, 2026Arrival & welcome dinner
Friday, June 26, 2026Bending Spoons presentation & challenge kick-off
Saturday, June 27, 2026Challenge continues & local activity
Sunday, June 28, 2026Awards & conclusion
