NOW by Vision Expo, the trend showcase and premier award program celebrating innovation in eyewear, is proud to announce the launch of its first-ever NOW Design Competition, inviting designers and creators from around the world to participate in a bold challenge to rethink what eyewear can be.
Under the compelling theme, “Visionaries of Tomorrow”, the competition calls on designers, students, eyecare professionals, and creators from around the world to submit conceptual or functional designs for all eyewear or optical accessories. From avant-garde frames to accessories and technology-infused designs, participants are invited to explore how eyewear can redefine personal expression, enhance health, and shape fashion for the future.
Launched in collaboration with The Vision Council and the Accessories Council, the NOW Design Competition maintains its commitment to offering a stage for forward-thinking talent and a unified voice for innovation within the optical industry. This new initiative aligns with the NOW platform’s mission to elevate eyewear as a powerful form of cultural and technological expression.
“This competition is about championing the next generation of creative thinkers who will shape the future of eyewear, not just as a product, but as a cultural and technological medium,” said Nico Roseillier, Director and Creator of NOW, and Owner of UN-TI-TLED Creative Agency. “We want to amplify those wild, brilliant, unexpected ideas that inspire the industry to move forward.”
Key Information 
Dates to Note
  • Submissions Open: May 21, 2025
  • Submission Deadline: August 20, 2025
  • Finalists Announced: August 28, 2025
  • Winner Announced at: Vision Expo West in Las Vegas (September 2025)
Exciting Prizes and Opportunities
Finalists will see their designs showcased at Vision Expo West in Las Vegas. The Grand Prize Winner will receive industry recognition and these exclusive rewards:
  • Hotel and airfare to attend Vision Expo Orlando 2026
  • A coveted feature in AC Magazine and other prominent trade publications
  • A creative consultation with UN-TI-TLED Creative Agency
  • Exclusive mentorship opportunities with top designers and brands
The Submission Process
Designers can submit conceptual designs, including renderings, illustrations, 3D models, or eyewear-related accessories. Submissions require a short project description and a completed entry form. The competition welcomes participants aged 18+, no prior professional experience required. No fee for entry. Entry cannot be an already existing product currently on sale or launching.
Submissions must be completed by August 20, 2025.
How to Enter
For more information, detailed entry guidelines, and to take part in this new initiative, visitthe official website.
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Media Contacts:
Paige Heady
Marketing Director
Jen Cullen Williams
Public Relations
About Vision Expo
Vision Expo East and West are trade-only conferences and exhibitions for eyecare and eyewear presented by co-owners RX and The Vision Council. Vision Expo is the most comprehensive event for the entire Vision community, built for the industry by the industry. The only balance of conference and exhibition to learn from industry pioneers, explore cutting-edge advancements, and gain a new perspective on the future of eyewear. In the Vision Expo Exhibit Hall, eyecare providers can discover fashion trends, interact with new technologies and access innovative products and services. The Vision Expo education program is driven by the profession, offering content of the highest quality and relevance to enhance overall patient care. For more information on Vision Expo, visit  VisionExpo.com and follow Vision Expo’s social media channels, FacebookTwitterInstagramTikTok, and LinkedIn. Vision Expo images can be found HERE and new logo can be found HERE.
About The Vision Council
The Vision Council brings the power of sight to all through education, government relations, research and technical standards. A leading advocate for the optical industry, the association positions its members to deliver the eyewear and eyecare people need to look and feel their best. Vital to health, independence and safety, better vision leads to better lives. Learn more at  thevisioncouncil.org.
About RX
RX is a global leader in events and exhibitions, leveraging industry expertise, data, and technology to build businesses for individuals, communities, and organizations. With a presence in 25 countries across 41 industry sectors, RX hosts approximately 350 events annually. RX is committed to creating an inclusive work environment for all our people. RX empowers businesses to thrive by leveraging data-driven insights and digital solutions. RX is part of RELX, a global provider of information-based analytics and decision tools for professional and business customers. For more information, visit www.rxglobal.com.