Starting a project on Dribbble is simple and fully managed on-platform. From the first message to final payment, you can handle everything in one place—securely and professionally.
Here’s how it works:
1. Project Request
When a client is interested in working with you, you’ll get a message in your Dribbble inbox. This is your chance to introduce yourself, ask clarifying questions, and start a conversation about the work they need.
2. Scoping the Project
Once the conversation is underway, use this time to clarify the project goals, timeline, and deliverables. This early stage is often called project discovery, and you can do it all on Dribbble—no need to share personal contact information. You can:
Share your Dribbble portfolio or links to live work
Schedule and host discovery calls right on the platform
Exchange files and NDAs via Dribbble messages
For more on how to share project details and collaborate before booking, see our guide: Project Discovery for Designers.
3. Send a Proposal
When you’re aligned on scope, create a formal project proposal directly in Dribbble. Proposals allow you to outline the work, define milestones, and set the total project budget. You can also choose to include a kickoff payment, which allows you to receive a portion of the payment before major work begins.
Learn how to build a clear, structured proposal here: Creating Proposals & Budgets
4. Wait for Client Payment
All Dribbble projects are paid in advance. Once the client accepts your proposal, they’ll pay for the full project or one milestone at a time.
You’ll get a notification as soon as payment is received. Do not begin work until we confirm that funds are secured.
5. Dribbble Holds the Funds
Dribbble holds project funds while you complete the work. Once you’ve submitted a milestone, the client reviews and releases the payment.
This protects both you and the client and ensures a fair, secure process for everyone.