Started in October 1994, the first conference entitled Dogon to Digital revolutionized the design industries by recognizing the emergence and cross-pollination of disparate design disciplines. Designers of color gathered in Chicago to discuss future trends, the African American design aesthetic, issues of visibility and invisibility, as well as provided a platform to showcase designers work, to acknowledge historical accomplishments of pioneering designers of color and to ultimately engage the entire design community to explore more diversity in practice, scholarly pursuits and recognition.

Corporate sponsors, allied industry partners, educational institutions and others seeking to connect with high caliber design professionals recognize DesigNation as the only design conference to sponsor and attend. Major Fortune 500 companies including but not limited to Procter & Gamble, Ford Motor Company, Steelcase, General Motors, Nike, Hallmark Cards, and Disney have exhibited and/or sponsored employees, human resource professionals and key executive staff to hire, partner and/or solicit new business from conference attendees. One of the most successful features of the DN conference series is the Portfolio Review open to professionals and students alike. This celebrated event brings together attendees of immeasurable talent and companies looking to hire top creative individuals.