GDTA Annual Conference 2025: “Design Thinking for Good”

This year, we gather under the theme “Design Thinking for Good” to explore how design can create lasting, positive impact in education, health, sustainability, community resilience, and beyond. d.confence 2025 is the annual conference-festival of the Global Design Thinking Alliance (GDTA), held each year by a different member institution of the network. In 2025, the conference will be hosted by Yasar University in Izmir, Turkey. The event is designed to promote the positive impact of design-oriented thinking and to contribute to the sustainable and human-centric development of cities. It brings together academics, designers, entrepreneurs, civil society actors, public institutions, and private sector professionals to foster an inspiring environment for interdisciplinary exchange and collaboration.

Date & Location

Yasar University
İzmir, Türkiye
18–19 September 2025
Organized by the Global Design Thinking Alliance (GDTA)

Program

We are excited to bring together a global community around the theme “Design Thinking for Good.”

18 September – Conference Day (Free of Charge, Reservation Required):

Hosted at Yaşar University’s Main Conference Hall, this day will feature keynote talks, panel discussions, and experience sharing from academics, facilitators, and practitioners from around the world. A dedicated foyer area will also showcase impactful research and Design Thinking practices in Turkey and beyond.

Tickets for the Symposium on September 18th are free of charge and can be acquired through eventbrite.

19 September – Design in Action (Paid Ticket):

This full-day program offers:
– Hands-on workshops led by international and local experts
– Guided innovation safari through İzmir’s creative ecosystem
– Networking lunch and evening celebration

Ticket Price: 5,000 TL (VAT included) – Non-refundable

After you submit the request form, our team will contact you with payment details. Once your payment is confirmed, you will receive your Eventbrite ticket with your selected workshop and safari.

Download the full agenda and information package below! Looking forward to seeing you in Izmir!