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CDM Digi Fab Competition 2026: Call for Entries

In an exciting collaboration, CAINZ, KOKUYO, and VUILD have announced the launch of their inaugural furniture and woodworking design competition, the CDM Digi Fab Competition 2026. This unique initiative aims to invite creative minds to submit their innovative ideas for furniture that resonates with modern family life. Submissions will be accepted from July 10, 2026, until September 27, 2026.

Background of the Competition

In today's world, the ways families live and use their spatial environments have become increasingly varied. Particularly in households with children, activities such as studying, playing, organizing, and relaxing often overlap within the same space. Unfortunately, standard furniture sometimes falls short in meeting the distinct needs and dimensions of these homes. CAINZ, aiming to address these minor inconveniences and aspirations, has developed a platform for DIY finished cut furniture called CAINZ DIY MARKET. This service enables individuals to create and adjust furniture to seamlessly integrate into their lives, fostering a deeper attachment to their homes and loved ones.

The CDM Digi Fab Competition 2026 incorporates the knowledge that CAINZ has regarding user-centric product development, KOKUYO's expertise in furniture and space creation, and VUILD’s knowledge in digital fabrication technology. Together, they seek to uncover new value-creation possibilities enhanced by digital fabrication techniques and connect the ideation of creators to tangible products in real-world settings. The grand prize and outstanding works will be utilized in products through the Creators' Design initiative, supporting creators within the CAINZ DIY MARKET. Furthermore, all entries that pass the first round of screenings will be prominently displayed at KOKUYO's Tokyo Shinagawa Office (“THE CAMPUS”).

Submission Guidelines

The competition focuses on the theme of “Life with Children”. The aim is to bring forth designs that can accommodate children's homework and stacks of toys while incorporating elements that encourage children’s independence. Participants are encouraged to explore DIY furniture options that fill the gaps that ready-made furniture cannot.

Main Requirements

• - Theme: “Life with Children”
• - Design Focus: Entries should be furniture or woodworking items that inspire creativity in children, support their independence, and promote harmonious coexistence between children and adults while alleviating family stress.

Prizes

• - Grand Prize (1 Winner): ¥100,000 and commercialization through CDM Creators' Design
• - Excellence Awards (2 Winners): ¥50,000 and commercialization through CDM Creators' Design
• - Honorable Mentions (Up to 3 Winners): ¥30,000

Evaluation Criteria

Entries will be judged based on various criteria including thematic relevance, aesthetic appeal, originality, functionality, durability & safety, and feasibility for realization.

Eligibility

Anyone can apply, whether an individual or a group, regardless of age, gender, occupation, or nationality, provided they agree to the terms and can enter into a contract with CAINZ upon product commercialization. Only concepts that have not been previously revealed in Japan or abroad are eligible, and there is no limit on the number of submissions.

Cost & Materials

Participation is free, with the following material guidelines:

• - Material: Wood only
• - Processing: Must be suitable for a 3-axis CNC router, recommending forms and structures appropriate for this method.
• - Structure: The furniture should be easily assembled by the user at a DIY level.

Scheduling

• - Entry Period Begins: July 10, 2026
• - Deadline for Submission: September 27, 2026 (by 23:59 Japan time)
• - Announcement of First Screening Results: Early October 2026 (notification via email to selected candidates)
• - Announcement of Winners: Early December 2026
• - Special Exhibition: Early December 2026 at KOKUYO Tokyo Shinagawa Office

How to Apply

Submissions must be made through the dedicated application form on the CDM Digi Fab Competition 2026 website: CDM Digi Fab Competition 2026.

Organizers

This initiative is spearheaded by CAINZ, KOKUYO, and VUILD, with the objective of fostering collaborative creation and expanding product offerings through innovative ideas.

Conclusion

As CAINZ looks forward to expanding its offerings to develop custom cut furniture that fits the lifestyles and spatial needs of its customers, this competition opens doors to a range of possibilities for modern living inspired by family dynamics. With KOKUYO’s commitment to enriching everyday experiences and VUILD's ambition to democratize building through technology, the CDM Digi Fab Competition 2026 is anticipated to spark remarkable designs that not only meet utility but also resonate with the spirit of family life.