As momentum builds around digital design platforms, a less-visible but growing battleground is forming behind the scenes — in the code, in the ecosystems, and quietly, in funding programs positioned to shape who gets to innovate and how far they can go. Canva’s Innovation Fund is one of those levers.
What the innovation fund actually offers
Back in June 2023, Canva announced a $50 million Innovation Fund aimed at fueling app development within its platform. The key? This fund doesn’t cater to big studios or corporate software outfits. It’s specifically tuned toward small, nimble developers — individuals or small teams building tools that integrate directly into Canva’s user interface.
Two ways to get funded
The fund is split into two main pillars — Developer Grants and App Adoption Awards.
- Developer Grants: These are early-stage funds that let app creators build or refine their tools. Canva prioritizes projects that use artificial intelligence safely and meaningfully, or that offer free productivity enhancements to Canva users.
- App Adoption Awards: One-time cash bonuses given to apps after passing key milestones in Monthly Active Users (MAUs). The higher the adoption, the larger the award.
Both programs are open to any developer with a free, publicly listed app — but the fine print matters. Apps behind a paywall, or requiring manual sign-in, often struggle to generate the volume needed for the awards tier.
How to apply
Applications are submitted through an online form found in the official Canva Developer Docs. The application process remains open with reviews conducted monthly, so there’s no hard deadline — but eligibility is tightly defined.
Eligibility checklist
To even be considered for funding, your app must check these boxes:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| App Marketplace Listing | Your app must be publicly available on the Canva Apps Marketplace. |
| SDK Usage | Built using Canva’s Apps SDK (refer to canva.com/developers). |
| Launch Window | Launched between June 1, 2024, and June 1, 2025. |
| Authentication | Must support frictionless sign-in using user tokens. |
| Free Access | A significant portion of features must be free to use. |
This kind of entry barrier — technical, procedural, and chronological — suggests Canva is curating the types of apps it wants in its ecosystem. And that curation leans heavily toward open access and operational agility.
Who benefits — and who doesn’t
Beyond cash, grantees receive guidance on go-to-market strategies, design alignment, and even user analytics support. There’s also a political angle here — a clear focus on funding diverse founders. Canva has stated that underrepresented communities, including BIPOC, LGBTQIA+ developers, or those from regions underserved by venture capital, will receive targeted outreach and support.
“Getting the grant really changed our app’s trajectory,” said Leena Watanabe, co-founder of a Tokyo-based productivity plugin that received a Developer Grant in early 2025. “Before, we were testing features blindly. Canva gave us clarity, access to user insights, and a public stage.”
The strategic bet
Here’s where things get interesting. According to Canva’s own documentation, the marketplace is seeing over 185 million monthly users. That’s not a casual audience — it’s a massive laboratory for user feedback and viral growth. Apps like DeepReel reportedly saw a 10x spike in usage after being featured.
But it’s not an automatic ride. The app ecosystem is curated, and funding is limited. Developers are effectively competing to align with Canva’s priorities: accessibility, design utility, and broad appeal — without leaning on pricing.
The platform isn’t trying to sell another subscription layer; it’s trying to own creative workflows across demographics and skill levels. That means plenty of room for go-to-market experimentation — and potential friction with traditional SaaS monetization structures.
FAQ
What types of apps are most likely to receive grants from the Innovation Fund?
Apps powered by generative AI, tools that simplify workflows, and utilities offering free-to-use creative functions are given priority. Canva has made it clear that impactful, accessible tools are what they’re betting on.
How does the app review process work for the Canva Apps Marketplace?
Apps are reviewed for technical compliance, user experience, and adherence to Canva’s developer guidelines. The process includes both automated and manual checks and can take several weeks.
What are the eligibility criteria for the App Adoption Awards?
You must have a public, free app listed in the Marketplace. Awards are based on Monthly Active User (MAU) thresholds, though Canva keeps specific numbers undisclosed.
Can I apply for both a grant and an App Adoption Award?
Yes. In fact, many projects aim for both — by first launching with grant support and later qualifying for user-based awards as they scale.
How can I ensure my app meets the requirements for the Canva Apps Marketplace?
Follow the SDK documentation on canva.com, test extensively across platforms, and ensure frictionless user authentication. Canva advises clearly defining your app’s value proposition and covering a core use case without locking features behind a paywall.
