Vision and Values

 Communities everywhere face daunting, systemic social challenges. Solutions exist—and so do empathetic, creative problem-solvers. DFA supports these fearless innovators through our core values.

DFAers with community members at a playground

Trust in Community

We see systemic challenges as opportunities for creative, community-based problem-solving.

DFA student in hijab adding to sticky note wall

Optimism About the Future

We actively cultivate personal and collective agency, psychological safety, and a sense of hope for ourselves and the DFA community.

DFA students presenting on stage

Respect for Different Ways of Knowing

We believe diverse perspectives lead to better ideas and solutions. DFA is trans-disciplinary, multi-generational, and ever-evolving.

Building a More Daring Future

Design for America has received many awards in recognition of achieving our vision and living our values:

2024 Don Norman Design Award

DFA was recognized alongside seven other global organizations with a Special Recognition Award from the Don Norman Design Award in 2024. Read more about our award here.

2018 Cooper Hewitt National Design Award

DFA received the National Design Award for Corporate and Institutional Achievement from Cooper Hewitt in 2018. Read more about our award here.

Multiple US National Science Foundation Grants

Since 2012, DFA has been awarded 5 U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) research grants worth over $2.6 million. Read more about NSF grants here