As you may have read in my previous blog, I am now officially a Canva Creator, and it’s been quite the journey! If you’re curious about how to become a Canva Creator and start earning from your designs, you’ve come to the right place. Here’s everything you need to know about joining the Canva Creator Program and making the most out of this opportunity.
What is the Canva Creator Program?
The Canva Creator Program aims to build the world’s most diverse marketplace for design. It offers a platform where designers, photographers, illustrators, and specialists of all experience levels can showcase their work and earn royalties. By becoming a Canva Creator, you join a thriving community and transform your creativity into a profitable venture!
Types of Canva Creators
Template Designers: Crafting Customizable Layouts
Template designers, primarily graphic designers, focus on creating customizable layouts. To become a Canva Creator in this category, you need to submit your portfolio via Canva’s application form. Keep in mind that the template designer program is currently in a testing phase, so you might experience a delay in receiving a response. For instance, it took about 1.5 months for me to hear back from Canva after submitting my application. The response time varies depending on demand, application volume, and your location. I’m based in the Netherlands and create templates exclusively in Dutch for Dutch Canva members.
Element Designers: Designing Unique Visual Elements
Element designers encompass photographers, illustrators, typographers, videographers, and audio producers who design individual elements such as images and icons. Unlike template designers, element designers can submit their work at any time; however, applications are currently on hold due to high demand.
Specialized Content Designers: Expertise in Niche Areas
Specialized content designers are required to be verified experts in their respective fields. You can apply through Canva’s dedicated page for creating specialized educational content.
Building Your Portfolio as a Canva Creator
Creating a strong portfolio is essential when applying to become a Canva Creator. Use platforms like Behance, Dribbble, or website builders like Wix or Squarespace to display your best work. Personally, I used Canva itself to build a simple, free website showcasing my designs. This website featured a variety of templates and designs that highlighted my style and versatility. Although I deleted it afterward, you can still view my Canva profile if you’re interested. The key is to showcase your unique style and creativity. Additionally, ensure you create a video about yourself as part of the application process.
Submitting Your Canva Creator Application
When you submit your application to become a Canva Creator, including templates that you’ve designed from scratch is highly recommended. This approach demonstrates your original design capabilities and creativity. Avoid relying solely on customized templates from Canva, as they may not fully represent your unique skills.
How Do You Get Paid as a Canva Creator?
As a Canva Creator, you earn royalties based on the performance of your content. For templates, earnings occur whenever your design is used, downloaded, or printed. In contrast, earnings for elements are generated when Pro users export your designs. Payments are calculated monthly and increase with Canva’s subscription revenue. Additionally, Canva organizes “design challenges,” where you can earn bonuses by completing these challenges. Participating in these challenges serves as a great motivator to create new templates. Although payment is modest—such as a $200 bonus for 50 templates—this amount varies from month to month.
Is There a Review Process for Canva Creators?
Indeed, all submissions undergo a review process to uphold high standards. Templates and elements must meet specific requirements, and Canva will provide detailed guidelines once you’re accepted into the program.
Conclusion: Start Your Journey to Become a Canva Creator
If you’re passionate about design and eager to find a way to monetize your creativity, becoming a Canva Creator might be the ideal opportunity. Join a global community, get compensated for your work, and enjoy the freedom to create!
Stay tuned for updates on my journey as a Canva Creator! Follow me here to discover how my adventure unfolds.
