What does BOA stand for?

Be Original Americas

Founded almost 14 years ago with 10 brave companies who get “copied” often - Herman Miller was one of the original members!

Today, there are over 185 member firms – A&D, manufacturers, retailers & e-tailers, associations, industrial designers & media sponsors. Some of the activities include but are not limited to:

• CEU accredited courses

• Mentorships, workshops & fellowship programs for students, working with ICFF, WantedDesign & universities.

• Hold talks, roundtables & discussions

• Present at member A&D firms

• Works with U.S. Customs & Border Protection to stop counterfeit product from entering the market.

• And produce newsletters, including columns with our IP Attorney.

The goal is to educate and inform professionals and individuals on the value of original design and the damage copies have on our environment, economy and ethical.

WE BELIEVE…

THAT ORIGINAL IDEAS ARE ALL CREATED EQUAL: No matter the original all original ideas should be equally acknowledged and hold the same rights and protections.

THAT INVESTING IN ORIGINAL DESIGN IS GOOD BUSINESS: Investing in original design pays off. It keeps its value, is more durable and ages with beauty.

THAT GOOD DESIGN MAKES A DIFFERENCE: Good design makes a difference in the world. It can be sustainable and protect our planet. Good design improves our quality of life.

IN THE DESIGNER AND CREATORS: Designers’ designs and ideas are their property and that of the company they have partnered with in creating and manufacturing the work.

IN PROTECTING THE DESIGNER AND COMPANY: Young designers and ambitious design brands need design protection to foster innovation, explore possibilities, and usher in the future.

IN THE FUTURE OF DESIGN: Design gives back to the industry as a whole and to the people it serves. By purchasing authentic design you are investing in the future of design.

IN TRUE PARTNERS: A community of people who believe in these ideas and join the fight to support original design.

IN THE CUSTOMER: The customer will choose the original when they know and understand the work of the designer, the value of quality, and the investment it takes to create something original.

IN CREATIVITY: We believe in creating — NOT imitating. Making something original, with inspiration from the past and historic traditions is part of the learning process to create something wholly new.

IN AUTHENTICITY: The authentic way is the right way – for end users, designers, the companies that develop new original designs through research, creativity, investments and skills.