What it does
99designs offers designers two routes to client work: one-to-one projects and design contests. A portfolio helps clients find a suitable style, while the platform provides communication, file management and payment tools around an engagement.
Designers apply to join and are reviewed to determine a designer level. That level affects project fees: the candidate page lists 15% for Entry Level, 10% for Mid Level and 5% for Top Level. A new client also carries a US$100 introduction fee, spread over the first US$500 in charges. Free registration therefore does not mean fee-free project earnings.
Direct projects let designers set prices and work with clients whose needs fit their portfolio. A contest provides a different way to present work and can lead to follow-up projects with the client. Existing clients can also be brought onto the platform for invoicing and file storage. Choose the work route and calculate its charges before comparing the proposed price with the time needed to deliver the design.
Entering a design contest does not itself assure payment. Gold and Platinum contests share 15% of the prize among all finalists; the winner receives a share of that amount plus the rest of the prize.
Strengths
- Provides direct client projects and design contests
- Publishes designer-level fees and new-client introduction charges
Watch out for
- Project fees vary by designer level, and a new-client introduction charge can apply.
Best for
- Designers considering a portfolio-based client marketplace
Sources
- Designers | 99designs (Oct 26, 2026)
- I'm a contest finalist! What does that mean? – 99designs Help Center (Oct 26, 2026)