Directory profile

Serif / Affinity

Derby-founded creative software company known for the Affinity suite of professional design, photo and publishing tools used by millions worldwide.

Updated 29 April 2026 ยท Startup Derby index

Profile

Serif is a long-running Derby software success story and the team behind the Affinity suite of professional creative tools - acquired by Canva in 2023. For founders, it is a strong example of product craftsmanship, global creative communities, disruptive pricing strategy and building software with international reach from a Derby base across three decades.

Derby link

Founded in Derby in 1987 and strongly associated with the city's creative-software heritage. One of Derby's most internationally recognised software brands.

Sectorsaas
Stagegrowth
FundingCanva-owned
Employees100+
Founded1987