About Autodesk
Autodesk is a global leader in software for 3D design, engineering, and entertainment. Founded in 1982, the company is best known for AutoCAD, the industry-standard computer-aided design software.
Today, Autodesk offers a vast suite of tools—including Revit, Maya, 3ds Max, Fusion 360, and Inventor—that are essential for professionals in architecture, engineering, construction, manufacturing, and media. Their software helps people imagine, design, and create a better world, from towering skyscrapers and high-performance cars to blockbuster visual effects.
Autodesk Affiliate Program Overview
The Autodesk Affiliate Program allows content creators to earn commissions by promoting industry-leading design software. It operates on a SaaS (Software as a Service) subscription model.
| Feature | Description |
| Industry | Software, Technology, SaaS, Design & Engineering |
| Product Type | 3D Design, Engineering, Construction, and Entertainment Software |
| Affiliate Program Type | CPS (Cost Per Sale) / CPA (Cost Per Action) |
Autodesk Affiliate Program Offers
Autodesk provides a relatively long cookie duration compared to other tech affiliate programs, acknowledging the longer decision-making cycle for professional software.
| Feature | Details |
| Promotional Materials | Banners, text links, product data feeds, deep links, logos, and newsletters with updates. |
| Affiliate Cookie Duration | 60 Days |
| Accepted Traffic Sources | Content blogs, tech review sites, social media (YouTube, etc.), email newsletters, and educational platforms. |
| Accepted Countries | Global (Accepts affiliates from most countries, though customers may be geo-targeted). |
| Explicit Content | Strictly Prohibited. Sites must not contain offensive, sexually explicit, or illegal material. |
| Religious/Political Content | Generally restricted. Autodesk partners with professional, brand-safe content creators. |
Autodesk Affiliate Commissions & Payments
The program is lucrative due to the high price point of the software, even though it does not offer recurring commissions on renewals.
| Feature | Details |
| MLM | No (Single-tier affiliate program) |
| Commission Rate | 7% – 9% (on new subscriptions) |
| Commission Structure | Flat percentage fee per sale. Commissions are paid on the first year of a new subscription only (no renewals). |
| Payout Frequency | Monthly |
| Payout Methods | Direct Deposit, Check, Payoneer (via CJ Affiliate network). |
| Minimum Payout | $50 (Direct Deposit), $100 (Check). |
Suitable Affiliates for Autodesk
This program is best suited for content creators with a technical, professional, or educational audience.
- Bloggers: Tech reviewers, architecture/engineering bloggers, and CAD software tutorial sites.
- YouTubers: Channels focused on 3D modeling tutorials, “Speed Design” videos, or software comparisons (e.g., “AutoCAD vs. SketchUp”).
- Influencers: Industry professionals (Architects, Engineers, Animators) who recommend tools to peers.
- Video Editors: specifically those who can promote Maya or 3ds Max for VFX work.
- Livestreamers: Twitch/YouTube streamers who stream 3D modeling or game asset creation.
- Students/Educators: Those running educational portals for design students (though students often get free access, they can refer paid pros).
Autodesk Affiliate Software
Does this brand use affiliate management software?
Yes. Autodesk manages its affiliate program through a third-party affiliate network: CJ Affiliate (formerly Commission Junction). They do not use in-house software; all tracking, reporting, and payments are handled via the CJ platform.
3 Alternatives for Autodesk Affiliate Program
If your audience is interested in design and 3D software, you might also consider these alternatives.
1. SketchUp (Trimble)
A direct competitor to Autodesk in the architecture and interior design space. SketchUp is known for being more beginner-friendly.
2. Adobe Creative Cloud
While primarily for 2D creative work, Adobe’s “Substance 3D” and “After Effects” compete with Autodesk’s Media & Entertainment line (Maya/3ds Max).
3. TurboCAD (IMSI Design)
A budget-friendly alternative to AutoCAD for users who need CAD features without the high subscription cost of Autodesk.
| Comparison Factor | Autodesk | SketchUp (Trimble) | Adobe Creative Cloud | TurboCAD |
| Average Bill (AOV) | High ($300 – $2,000+) | Medium ($119 – $699) | Low/Medium ($30 – $600) | Medium ($200 – $1,000) |
| Entry Fees | Free to join | Free to join | Free to join | Free to join |
| Withdrawal Threshold | $50 | ~$50 (varies by network) | $50 | $50 |
| Payment Frequency | Monthly | Monthly | Monthly | Monthly |
| Commission | 7% – 9% | ~5% – 15% | 85% of first month (Monthly sub) or 8.33% (Yearly) | ~10% – 15% |
| Conversion | Moderate (High consideration) | Moderate | High (Brand recognition) | Moderate |
| Marketing Materials | Banners, Data feeds | Banners, Links | Comprehensive Creative Assets | Banners, Links |
