The Design Trust for Public Space is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to improving the design, utility and understanding of public space in New York City.

The Design Trust solicits research and design proposals from public agencies and community groups that require activities or resources beyond the scope of their budget, expertise or institutional structure.

Through an open Request for Proposals, one to three projects are selected every 18-24 months by an independent jury of public and private sector professionals from fields such as architecture, urban planning, public policy, journalism, art and design.

Projects selected by the jury receive management, planning and ongoing advocacy effort from the Design Trust. Following selection by the jury, the Design Trust nominates and provides fellowships to private sector design and other professionals who are at the top of their field to work directly with the partnering public agency or group.

Most Design Trust projects result in publication of findings intended to influence design practice or public policy, but also result in exhibitions, presentations and other public programs. Projects have produced built work but only as a demonstration or pilot of more widely applicable design goals. In the broadest sense, Design Trust projects create a positive shift in the way New York's public space is created, managed or used.