IALD Enlighten Americas
LIRC Emerging LightingDesigner Initiative

As an emerging architectural lighting design professional, you'll receive financial support to experience educational and networking opportunities at an IALD Enlighten Americas conference. The LIRC developed this initiative to support up-and-coming lighting designers in the early years of professional practice.

Don't miss this chance to develop your knowledge and skills while mingling with top lighting designers from around the world. Apply to the Emerging Program, and you could join us at the next IALD Enlighten Americas conference!

For over a decade, the LIRC has facilitated this program, sending more than 400 up-and-coming architectural lighting designers from twenty countries to IALD Enlighten Conferences worldwide.

 
Full conference registration to IALD Enlighten Americas (valued at $1,500 USD)
 
A $400 USD travel stipend to offset travel expenses
 
One ticket to the LIRC Emerging Lighting Design Professionals networking reception
 
Recognition at the conference as an Emerging Lighting Design Professional
 
Application deadline: 16 September 2026 Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis. Program funds are limited — apply early. Acceptance notifications are sent by email.

Sponsored designers are required to participate in the Lighting Cross Talk session at EA26 — an opportunity to collaborate with design peers and exchange feedback with manufacturer representatives.

This program is open to emerging lighting designers with active employment and experience as a lighting designer for a maximum of seven years (CV to be provided), as well as active (or pending) status as a Member or Design Member of the IALD. For further questions about eligibility, or regarding membership status, contact the IALD Membership Department.

This program is open to first-time EA registrants only and may not be applied to existing conference registrations. Sponsorship covers conference registration and the travel stipend noted above; all other expenses remain the responsibility of the selected designer.

Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis. Program funds are limited. Acceptance notifications are sent by email. The application deadline is 16 September 2026.