Toy Industries Europe (TIE) has announced the opening of its entries to the seventh edition of the Play for Change Awards.

The Play for Change Awards recognises the toymakers who drive positive social, educational and environmental change through play. Now in its seventh edition, the Awards showcase meaningful innovation, purposeful design, and products that go beyond entertainment to shape a better future.

POC has been involved with TIE and the sustainability category of the awards for a number of years now, helping to build the framework and criteria for which the sustainability of the toys are judged, and with POC’s founder and CEO, Helena Mansell-Stopher also being part of the judging panel for the category.

Building on five successful years, the Awards have evolved into a benchmark for excellence in purpose-driven toy development and impactful initiatives. The increasing quality and diversity of entries underscore the industry’s commitment to creating products and programmes that not only entertain but also empower, educate, and inspire.

Helena explained how when it first began, there were so many fewer companies meeting the sustainability criteria, but every year it has grown, and last year in particular saw a marked increase in the quality and commitment of the application, demonstrating the direction of travel for the industry. This was exemplified by the fact that the sustainability category had four winners, rather than the usual three (bronze, silver, gold).

Last year’s winners include: Mattel, D&R Denkriesen, Smoby Toys, Playmobil, Miniland, LEGO Group, Learning Resources.

Whether you’re an established brand or an emerging innovator, this is your opportunity to stand out and gain global recognition.

Enter the Awards in one or more of the following categories:

• Diversity & Inclusion: Recognising toys and initiatives that promote representation and inclusive play where every child feels seen and valued.
• Sustainability: Honouring efforts to reduce environmental impact — from eco-friendly materials to initiatives that inspire children to care for the planet.
• Life Skills: Celebrating toys and initiatives that equip children with essential skills for the 21st century such as resilience, critical thinking, or coding.

Submit products or initiatives launched on the European market between 1 January 2025 and 30 April 2026. The submission deadline is 1 July 2026.

Enter the awards or find out more at: playforchangeawards.eu.