The widely popular design app Canva has made history by earning $3 billion in revenue in 2024, becoming the first startup led by a woman to achieve such a milestone. Known as the go-to creative tool for Gen Z and digital creators worldwide, Canva has transformed the way individuals and organizations approach graphic design.
Founded in 2013 in Australia, Canva was the brainchild of Melanie Perkins, who launched the platform alongside her co-founders Cliff Obrecht and Cameron Adams. Born in Australia to a Malaysian father and Australian mother, Perkins studied at the University of Western Australia and taught graphic design while still a student. Her experience with students struggling to grasp traditional design tools inspired her to envision a platform that would simplify professional design for everyone. This idea first materialized in the form of “Fusion Books,” an online yearbook-making tool, which eventually evolved into what the world now knows as Canva.
Despite Canva’s current status as a tech success story, its journey was far from easy. Perkins and her team faced repeated rejections and skepticism, especially when pitching their concept to investors. Many dismissed the idea of replacing conventional graphic design tools, often ridiculing the ambition. However, their persistence paid off when Silicon Valley venture capitalist Bill Tai recognized their potential and backed their vision, setting Canva on a path toward global influence.
Canva’s appeal lies in its user-friendliness—anyone can create professional-looking designs without needing formal training in graphic design. The platform’s intuitive web tools allow users to craft resumes, social media posts, presentations, and more within minutes. This accessibility has made it especially popular among individuals and businesses seeking quick and affordable design solutions. According to Canva, nearly 95% of Fortune 500 companies now use the platform.
Recent innovations like Canva Docs and Canva Sheets have positioned the company as a competitor to long-standing productivity giants like Microsoft Office and Google Workspace. These additions aim to further integrate design with workplace collaboration and productivity.
In 2021, Canva’s revenue stood near $1 billion. Within just three years, that figure tripled—a feat the company proudly touts as its biggest accomplishment to date. “Canva’s goal was always to shatter the myth that design is difficult,” said Perkins. “We’ve always strived to make design simple and accessible for everyone. The fact that we’ve achieved that is our greatest reward.”
Canva’s success story extends beyond the tech world. It stands as a powerful testament to the critical role women play in innovation and leadership. Melanie Perkins, as a woman of mixed heritage, has not only redefined tech entrepreneurship but also inspired a new generation of women to dream bigger. Through her leadership, Canva continues to prove that inclusive, user-first technology can change industries—and lives.