The Estonian Association of Designers (EAD) is a professional organisation that connects and represents Estonian designers, with the aim of supporting design in its broadest sense. Established in 1989, the association today brings together around 200 experts in product, furniture, fashion, textile and graphic design – the very core of Estonia’s creative industry. EAD focuses on improving the professional skills and vocational knowledge of designers and stands for the rights of its members. Above all, EAD’s mission is to ensure the high quality of its members’ work and adherence to the professional code of ethics. The association’s task is to highlight the potential of Estonian designers.

In Estonian society, EAD is recognised as a promoter of design awareness. For us, design is not merely the “make‑up art” of the material world, but a process that acts as a bridge between economy and culture, nature and technology, business and people. The invisible role of design is to create user‑friendly environments and add value to entrepreneurship. At the same time, we do not wish to encourage the overproduction of unnecessary goods; instead, we contribute to the development of high‑quality and sustainable products.

In today’s world, networking is essential for success. The exchange of information and international contacts opens new opportunities for collaboration. EAD is a member of several international umbrella organisations for design: WDO, BEDA and EIDD Design for All Europe. EAD has organised numerous travelling exhibitions such as Size Doesn’t Matter, Second Chance and Upmade in Estonia, with more than 30 exhibitions presented in countries including the USA, Mexico, Japan, Italy, France, Spain, Finland and Sweden. EAD has also participated in major fairs and design weeks in Milan, London, Venice, New York and Singapore.

Through various EU cooperation programmes, EAD has initiated new projects and contributed to the creation of numerous new products. One of the best‑known initiatives is Tallinn for All, focusing on inclusive design. Project themes have ranged from design management to human‑centred cities, healthcare design and creativity in remote areas. In 2011, EAD organised the European Innovation Festival IF… in Tallinn, hosting the European Design Management Award Gala as part of the event. From 2018 to 2024, EAD was a partner in the EU project SMOTIES (Creative Works for Small and Remote Places).

EAD is actively involved in raising public awareness of the value and impact of design by organising exhibitions, competitions, seminars and workshops. The association participates in discussions on Estonia’s development strategies and the growth of the creative economy. On EAD’s initiative, a joint project with the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Communications was launched in 2002 to develop and implement national design policy. EAD also initiated the establishment of the Estonian Design Centre.

Since 2006, EAD has organised the Design Night Festival, which brings design and creativity into the spotlight and offers creative professionals an opportunity to showcase their work. Every two years, EAD awards the BRUNO Prize for the best design product, best design project and exemplary design management.

February 23 has been designated Estonian Design Day on EAD’s initiative. The purpose of this day is to highlight the potential of Estonian designers.

In 2010, EAD established the Estonian Design House – a showroom dedicated to promoting and selling Estonian design. Located in the Solaris Centre, the shop and its online store present products from more than 100 Estonian brands.