On 20 April 2026, ESC is organizing a hands-on Co-Design Canvas Training as part of the ‘ESCuela’ program line, focused on education and professionalization. This training is intended for (creative) professionals who wish to foster open, inclusive, and impactful co-design processes within diverse, transdisciplinary coalitions.
Training Focus
Complex societal challenges are difficult to grasp and address because no single stakeholder or organization is solely responsible. Many issues are interconnected and constantly evolving. As a result, people and matters are overlooked, and stakeholders may be unable or unwilling to make important decisions. This calls for new approaches.
Under the guidance of professor Wina Smeenk, you will learn to independently work with the Co-Design Canvas, a practical and proven knowledge product for tackling complex societal issues. The Canvas supports coalitions of diverse stakeholders in making collective decisions and working together toward social impact.
“Recently I used the WHO? part of the Co-Design Canvas during a team meeting, and it led to the best team meeting of the year. I’m sold.” – Kristel Thieme, New Future Lab, after the first ESCuela training day
What You’ll Learn
- Understand the structure, principles, and eight variables of the Co-Design Canvas.
- Apply the Canvas to a societal challenge by mapping key actors, joint goals, and dynamics.
- Develop skills to facilitate transparent dialogue and uncover differences in interests, knowledge, power, and context among stakeholders.
- Experience practical methods for inclusive collaboration and shared decision-making.
- After the training, you’ll be able (and encouraged) to independently facilitate sessions using the Canvas.
Practical Information
- Date: 20 April 2026
Location: Inholland University of Applied Sciences Amsterdam (Sluisbuurt)
Time: 9:30 – 16:30. Coffee breaks, lunch, and a lunch walk are included. - It is recommended to familiarize yourself with the Co-Design Canvas beforehand. You can do so via the link to purchase the book and link to background information.
Fee: €600 (ESC practice partners can attend one ESCuela training free of charge).