Feature Request – Use MakerWorld Points for Software Subscriptions (e.g. Shapr3D)
I’d love to suggest a new way to use earned points: allowing users to spend MakerWorld points on subscriptions to 3D design software such as Shapr3D or similar tools.
For example, I would never really consider paying around £31/month in cash for a single design app when there are so many alternatives. But I would seriously consider spending £10–£31/month worth of MakerWorld points on it. It turns points I’ve earned by contributing to the community into something that directly improves my ability to create.
How this could work
- MakerWorld partners with companies like Shapr3D (and/or similar 3D/CAD tools).
- MakerWorld negotiates a “points for subscription” deal (e.g. 1-month or 3-month licenses in exchange for a set number of points).
- Users redeem points to receive a subscription code or link.
Possible partners
There are many companies this could work with, for example:
- Shapr3D
- Adobe – Photoshop, Illustrator, Substance, etc.
- Autodesk – Fusion 360, 3ds Max, etc.
- ZBrush
- Exoside Quad Remesher – amazing tool, but one many users would never buy outright with cash
…and plenty of other plugins and creative tools that are very relevant to 3D creators.
MakerWorld has a large, highly engaged creator base, which should be very attractive to these companies. That gives MakerWorld good leverage to negotiate lower-priced subscription deals in exchange for points.
Benefits for MakerWorld
- Supports better tools → better models
By helping users access higher-end or more specialised software, you indirectly improve the overall quality of uploads on MakerWorld. - Differentiation from competitors
Offering software subscriptions positions MakerWorld as a platform that actively invests back into its creators. - Mutual benefit with software companies
Partner apps gain visibility and a stream of highly relevant users (3D creators) who might later become long-term paying customers. - Leverage a large creator market to get better deals
The size of the MakerWorld creator community makes it easier to approach software companies with meaningful partnership proposals and secure discounted “points-only” offers.
Benefits for creators
- Lets people use the software they actually enjoy working in, rather than whatever is free.
- Lowers the barrier to experimenting with more advanced tools without needing to commit cash upfront.
- Makes points feel meaningful and directly connected to creative growth, not just to physical rewards.
I think this kind of partnership would be a win–win for MakerWorld, software companies, and creators. Please consider exploring deals like this with Shapr3D and similar apps.
Thanks for reading and for all the work you’re already doing for the community!