R&D Insights: How Shopify Inc. and Autodesk, Inc. Allocate Funds

R&D Spending: A Tale of Two Innovators

In the ever-evolving tech landscape, research and development (R&D) spending is a key indicator of a company's commitment to innovation. Over the past decade, Shopify Inc. and Autodesk, Inc. have demonstrated distinct approaches to R&D investment.

Shopify Inc.

Since 2014, Shopify has shown a remarkable growth trajectory in R&D spending, increasing from a modest $26 million to a staggering $1.73 billion by 2023. This represents a growth of over 6,500%, underscoring Shopify's aggressive push towards innovation and market expansion.

Autodesk, Inc.

Autodesk, on the other hand, has maintained a steady increase in its R&D budget, growing from $611 million in 2014 to $1.37 billion in 2024. This consistent investment reflects Autodesk's commitment to enhancing its software offerings and maintaining its competitive edge.

While Shopify's R&D spending surged, Autodesk's steady growth highlights two different yet successful strategies in the tech industry.