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The paper here proposed introduces the Design-driven Material Innovation Methodology as a systematic approach in new material-product development processes as a possible strategic tool for design schools, practitioners and SMEs. Scientists and engineers are problem solver, but to engender innovations of success requires not only technological exploitations but also a broader understanding of materials meaningful application for consumers. For the design language, material performances are based in technological performance and also on experience, perception and cultural values. Nowadays the design knowledge and skills are approaching us to a new materials research scenario where creative communities, scientists and material industries are becoming deeply engaged in the creative challenge to achieve material functionality and meanings. Considering these and others factors, the Design Department of Politecnico di Milano promoted in October 2014 the Material Design Culture Research Center (MADEC) funded by FARB (University Funds for Basic Research). Within the MADEC research program, one critical point has been the identification of a specific methodology able to integrate tailor-made materials during the design process, in order to create new scenarios of concepts material and product. So, the Design-driven Material Innovation Methodology arose to enhance new products innovation starting from a specific material and suggesting a method able to manage the entire design process. After a brief forward of the method theoretical premises, the paper will analyzes the seven steps (Data collection about materials, Sensing, Sensemaking, Envisioning, Specifying, Setting up, Placing) suggested by the method associated with a selection of case studies to help its comprehension.Actually the DdMIM is part of the Design for Enterprises, the winner project of the Tender Capabilities for Design-Driven Innovation in European SMEs funded by EASME (Executive Agency for SMEs-European Commission). D4E is a consortium estabilished between MIP- Politecnico di Milano, D’Appolonia and ADIPER and will be a three years long European training program in order to help SMEs to manage a design process for product and services innovation where different actors like materials scientists, suppliers, creative communities and consumers are getting engaged.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.4995/IFDP.2016.3243