PSF ProtoLab
Let commercial product design help solve social problems
Introduction
PSF ProtoLab is a special initiative dedicated to fostering bold and innovative ideas. With the theme "Let commercial product design help solve social problems," it encourages innovative solutions with a strong societal impact.
While separate from the PSF Global Challenge—which prioritizes practical implementation in the real world—ProtoLab provides a space for students with creative, even unconventional or unrealistic, ideas to submit their product designs.
True to its name, ProtoLab is a hub for experimentation, pushing the boundaries of commercial product design.
Submission
Each team will select a United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) and design a product aligned with that goal. The product should address a social issue within the broader framework of the chosen SDG, with an explanation of its relevance included in the submission.
1. Product design, in document, image, or video format.
2. Video explanation of up to 5 minutes.
Submissions should be sent via email to submit@projectsharedfuture.net.
Subject: Team Name_ProtoLab Submission
Registration
Either register in this website (www.projectsharedfuture.net/registration) or register at the authorized party.
Team
Participation is in teams, with each team consisting of 1-8 members. Open to grade 10-12 students.
Fee
USD 180 / RMB 1280 per person.
Scholarship
PSF will provide scholarships/fee waiver for below participants:
★Groups from underdeveloped countries according to the UN list
(https://www.un.org/development/desa/dpad/least-developed-country-category/ldcs-at-a-glance.html);
★ Special groups, such as people with disabilities and refugees.
★ Groups from certain programs, such as UNESCO camps.
Scholarships or fundings can also be offered at the discretion of the authorized party.
Criteria
The evaluation criteria emphasize bold creativity and visionary thinking over practicality, encouraging participants to push the boundaries of product design. Each project will be assessed based on
★ Relevance to SDG
★ Innovation & Creativity
★ Conceptual Depth
★ Social & Environmental Impact
★ Presentation & Storytelling
with an equal focus on originality and transformative potential. Participants should propose groundbreaking ideas that challenge conventional solutions, reimagine societal structures, and inspire new ways of addressing global challenges.
Result Annoucement
Results will be announced within 1-2 weeks following the end of each quarter (March, June, September, December).
Award
Two types of certificates will be presented each quarter.
★ Distinguished Product Design: will be awarded to the most inventive and thought-provoking designs.
★ Best School Club: will be awarded to school clubs with high participation and exceptional group performance.
Showcase
A quarterly online showcase will be held, featuring outstanding awardees from the previous quarter. Guest speakers will be invited to provide guidance and feedback to the teams.
Sample Certificates
Youth Voices Impact the Future
Act Now, Youth Leaders!
Inquiry Email: support@projectsharedfuture.net