October 10-12, 2013
Minneapolis Convention Center, Minneapolis MN

Today, “to design” is a verb that transcends disciplines and mediums: Those who design bring creative value to messages, objects, functions, experiences, services and strategies.

Designers conceive of unexpected opportunities, empathize with the way real people behave and are moved, and craft tangible solutions with skill, attention, grace and emotional appeal. Join us in Minneapolis as we explore three dimensions of modern design practice:

• Head: Design thinking or strategy
• Heart: Design for social impact
• Hand: Design as craft

Great design will always embody each of these attributes, though every project draws on them in a different balance. This conference will celebrate the need for all three, and kick off AIGA’s centennial celebration in 2014. Register by June 5 to get the early rate! 

What to expect

Reserve your place now for “Head, Heart, Hand” where you’ll find everything you need to get inspired, make connections and more:

• On the main stage, experience a diverse array of inspiring speakers 
• Choose from a wide range of breakout sessions to help you take your practice to the next level
• Gain tactical strategies through practice management workshops
• Get up close and personal with your design hero at roundtable discussions
• Explore examples of the best design through exhibitions and local tours
• Get inspired at the Emerging Designers Symposium and learn from the designers who’ve been there, done that
• Make important connections with partners and vendors in the Design Fair
• Continue the discussions beyond the stage with networking receptions, evening events and more

This is not just about learning and networking—although you’ll meet plenty of colleagues, mentors and partners while getting practical advice. It’s also the place to celebrate design excellence and discuss critical issues affecting the design profession. Get the best rate for this event—register by June 5.

See who's registered.  

Who is speaking?

As speakers and programming for the 2013 event are confirmed, information will be posted here and updates will be sent to subscribers by email. In the meantime, let us know if you’d like to suggest a speaker.

Curious to know what the AIGA Design Conference is like? Take a look at videos from the 2011 AIGA Design Conference.

Hotel and travel

The 2013 AIGA Design Conference will take place at the Minneapolis Convention Center, located at 1301 2nd Avenue South in Minneapolis, Minnesota. For more information, visit our Hotel and Travel page.

What’s included

Your conference registration includes admission to all main-stage sessions, breakout sessions, the Emerging Designers Symposium, the Design Fair and all evening events. Pre- and post-conference events may require separate, additional fees; details will be available in spring 2013.

Registration policies

Your registration constitutes permission to use photos, audio and video recording taken of you at the event for promotional and educational purposes in connection with AIGA conferences and activities, in corresponding publications, in AIGA's archives and on AIGA's website.

There will be a $100 cancellation fee for cancellations made prior to June 5, 2013. AIGA will refund 50 percent of conference fees paid for cancellations made between June 6 and September 10, 2013. No refunds will be available after September 10, 2013. All ticket sales for pre- and post-conference events are final, no refunds will be granted.

Cancellation policy

Conference is subject to cancellation or change. Liability is limited to funds remitted for conference registration and sponsorship fees. Speakers are subject to change without prior notice.