DesignSingapore Council (DSG)’s new Business of Design (BOD) program has launched to help local furniture and lifestyle brands expand globally.

As a part of Singapore Design Week 2019, which runs until March 17, the program will select up to six brands the council believes have the potential to expand internationally, to receive mentorship from industry experts.

During the first two years, the BOD program will focus on the furniture and lifestyle product sector, and it will be expanded to include designers from other industries later.

“With increasing industry demand for design, the role of designers will expand,” said Chee Hong Tat, senior minister of state for trade and Industry. “Hence, our design education and talent development programme must adapt to help our designers tackle more complex challenges in the future.”

A themed collective showcase will be held in 2020 at an international location before travelling to other events including Milan Design Week. Displays will also be created at retail pop ups in cities including Shanghai.

Established in 2003, DSG aims to help local companies expand beyond Singapore.