The Independent tier is a billing decision, not a judging one. That distinction is the entire point of it, and it is worth restating every season, because people assume a cheaper rate must come with a smaller room attached.

It does not. Independent entries go to the same jury, in the same categories, for the same recognition and the same prizes.

Do you qualify?

Either condition is enough — five or fewer employees, or annual revenue of $500,000 USD or less. You do not need to satisfy both.

Freelancers qualify. Two-person partnerships qualify. Indie CPG brands and founders who have not crossed either line qualify. At the Fall rate that is $275 an entry rather than $385, through September 30.

Independent studios win the big ones

The 2026 results are the argument. First place in Luxury went to Studio Form, a UK independent, for The Glenrothes 51 — ahead of an entry from Estée Lauder Companies. First place in Private Label went to Boo Republic, an independent studio in Greece.

Neither result came from a softer bracket. Both were first place in an open category, against the field. A small team can commit to one strange decision and carry it the whole way through, and that tends to be what survives judging.

Same competition, same prizes

That phrase is meant literally. The same categories, the same places and merits, the same seal, the same New York showcase, the same Annual, and the same free route into the iF DESIGN AWARD 2027 for winners.

If the work was never commercially released, or you are a student, the Concept and Student track is lower still at $145. That track is separately judged, with its own dedicated jury, and it is not eligible for Best of Show.

Fall Entry closes September 30 at 23:59 GMT. Independent $275, Professional $385, Concept and Student $145. Enter the DIELINE Awards 2027.