Toledo's Flag Design Competition is Now Open!
The City of Toledo is seeking design submissions for a new city flag, in a process facilitated by The Arts Commission. Entries are being accepted now through August 28, 2024.
Overview
This initiative aims to engage the community in reimagining the city’s visual identity and unify residents around a new flag design that reflects Toledo's spirit and values. A Design Review Board (DRB) composed of community members and design experts will guide the redesign process.
Three finalists for the project will receive cash prizes for their designs. Second and third place will receive a $1000 cash prize. The first place winner will receive a $3000 cash prize.
Eligibility
Individuals must reside in the City of Toledo to participate in this redesign effort. Design submissions will remain anonymous throughout the process, ensuring a fair and unbiased evaluation of each entry.
Process
A Design Review Board (DRB) will be assembled to review all eligible submissions. Through a series of meetings and votes, the DRB will narrow the pool to the eight (8) highest scoring submissions. Residents of Toledo will have the opportunity to submit an online and in-person survey indicating their preferred design. The DRB will review the survey and use that information to inform the final design and two runners-up. The final design will be submitted to City Council for final adoption.
Timeline
- Submissions open beginning June 28, 2024
- Submissions due by August 28, 2024
- Design Review from September 4, 2024 to September 19, 2024
- Finalists on display at Momentum Festival September 20-22, 2024
- Final selection announced January 7, 2025
History
The first flag of Toledo was adopted by the Toledo City Council on January 11, 1909, featuring a vertical, blue | white | blue, tricolor with a blue circle and a blue circular outline around a red, simplistic illustration representing Fort Industry.
The second and current flag was adopted in 1994, and replaced the Fort Industry symbol with the city seal of Toledo. Mayor Carty Finkbeiner approved the new flag in the run up to Toledo's 160th anniversary, which took place in 1997.
Where to Submit
Eligible participants must submit entries online via The Arts Commission’s website. Entries may be submitted beginning June 28, 2024. Entries must be submitted by August 28, 2024