Toyota Logistic Design Competition 2026

Toyota Logistic Design Competition 2026 is now open for entries!

Toyota Logistic Design Competition 2026 : The Toyota Material Handling Europe launches its Toyota Logistic Design Competition 2026, inviting all university design students and recent graduates to bring their perspective on Africa and the unique challenges the continent presents.

➜ Short description

The Toyota Material Handling Europe launches its Toyota Logistic Design Competition 2026, inviting all university design students and recent graduates to bring their perspective on Africa and the unique challenges the continent presents.

Anyone with a curious mind can send in their creative ideas to respond to critical issues related to infrastructure and accessibility with effective and sustainable solutions.

The key question designers are asked is How might we reimagine delivery solutions to overcome infrastructure and accessibility, availability and affordability challenges in Africa? A lack of structured road networks or standardised addressing system makes it harder to reach or locate African customers. A fragmented logistics landscape contributes to increased operational costs for first and last mile delivery. Particularly in certain regions, safety and security is also a big concern.

The competition accepts entries in 4 different categories:

➜ Product Design
➜ Digital Platforms
➜ Business Innovation
➜ Open category - welcoming unique and creative entries that don’t fit into traditional categories but demonstrate significant impact or innovation.

Ideas pitched should offer efficient solutions that compliment or improve transportation in first and last mile delivery, streamline logistics processes or improve connectivity in delivery operations. Designers are challenged to think of opportunities to give underserved communities access to important supplies such as medicine, food and educational materials. Looking at the bigger picture, stronger and improved local systems support international trade and contribute to a better quality of life for society at large.

Judging crietria:

➜ Replicability:
Can the solution be easily adapted and implemented in other countries or contexts?

➜ Efficiency:
How well does the solution save time, resources & operations?

➜ Affordability:
Is the solution cost-effective for users?

➜ Low-Tech:
Does the solution work effectively with low reliance on complex technology?

➜ Accessibility:
Does the solution address barriers to entry and serve diverse people groups, including underserved communities?

➜ Modularity/Extendability:
Can the solution be easily expanded, upgraded, or customised to meet evolving needs?

➜ Environmental Sustainability:
How well does the solution reduce environmental impact and promote sustainability?

➜ Commercial Sustainability:
Is the solution economically viable in the long term?

➜ Social Impact:
Does the solution improve quality of life, create opportunities or address societal issues?

➜ Safety:
Does the solution prioritise and enhance the safety of users and operators?

Winners will be announced in the award ceremony, TBD. Finalists' works will be presented at Milan Design Week 2026.

➜ Who may enter?

The competition is open to university design students and recent graduates (2025), from all over the world.

➜ Prize:

The first prize winner of the single categori will receive 6000€. In addition to the monetary prizes, the Finalists will have chance to apply for paid internship at Toyota Material Handling Europe Design Center.