International Conference on
Designing the Future: Creativity, Inclusion & Technology in Youth Innovation
Organized by National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), Chennai and Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MoYAS), Govt of India
March 25 – 27, 2026 • NIFT Chennai Campus, India • Physical Mode
Welcome to ICDF 2026
The Conference aims to create a global platform for scholars, innovators, youth leaders, and industry experts to exchange knowledge and explore creative, inclusive, and technology-driven solutions for future challenges. It seeks to promote interdisciplinary dialogue and highlight youth-led innovation in shaping the world of tomorrow.
Design, innovation, and technology play a transformative role in addressing global societal needs. This Conference contributes meaningful perspectives to these fields by spotlighting inclusive design practices, digital advancements, sustainability, and youth empowerment. It supports the development of future-ready skills and solutions essential for creative industries and knowledge-driven economies.
Highlights
- 3 days of Events
- Round Table Discussions
- Parallel technical & design tracks
- Student design showcase
- Publication opportunities
- Industry networking night
Tracks at a glance
Sub-Theme 1
Future Fashion, Living Systems & Sensory Materiality
Focus Sectors: Fashion, Lifestyle, Textiles, Smart Materials, Architecture, Interior
Key Concepts*: Responsive materials, Future fashion, Regenerative design, Emotive spaces
Sub-Theme 2
Fashion Intelligent Technologies, Hybrid Craft & Digital Futures
Focus Sectors: AI, Robotics, Emerging Tech + Digital innovation across design sectors
Key Concepts*: Hybrid intelligence, XR, digital couture, robotic systems
Sub-Theme 3
Social Imagination, Inclusion & Ethical Design Innovation
Focus Sectors: Social Innovation + Inclusive Design + accessible design across sectors
Key Concepts*: Ethics, accessibility, belonging, care-centered design