V Owen Bush and Heather McManus discussed the organization's origin, growth (500+ members, 300+ manufacturers), and mission to help designers double profits through vendor networking and education.  They highlighted the importance of redefining value in design beyond cost, addressing systemic issues like designer underrepresentation, and adapting to technological advancements, including AI.  The Designers Collaborative will continue focusing on platform growth, educational initiatives, and advocating for improved profitability within the design industry.

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Heather McManus is a seasoned interior designer, entrepreneur, and the visionary founder of The Designers Collaborative (TDC)—a transformative buying group and professional community dedicated to empowering interior designers across North America. With over 25 years in the industry, Heather has navigated the evolving landscape of design, recognizing the challenges solo practitioners face in sourcing and profitability. In response, she established TDC to provide designers with access to over 300 vendor accounts at competitive pricing tiers, comprehensive business tools, educational resources, and a supportive network of peers .

The Designers Collaborative website

https://thedesignerscollaborative.com/