How do you market and grow a Shopify app without a large advertising budget?

Dev Platform
1

I launched my first public Shopify app in January 2026. The app is free and provides useful functionality for Shopify merchants, but I’ve only received a small number of installs.

I’ve tried running Shopify Ads, but they’ve been quite expensive, and with a limited budget it’s difficult to continue using them.

Over the past six months, the app has generated around $1,000 in revenue, so I’m looking for more cost-effective ways to grow.

I’d love to hear from Shopify app developers or app owners:

  • How did you get your first 100 or 1,000 installs?

  • Which marketing channels have worked best for you?

  • Are there any communities, platforms, or directories where you’ve successfully promoted your app?

  • Do you have any tips for growing a Shopify app with a small budget?

I’d really appreciate hearing about your experiences and any advice you can share.

2

Hey @Talal, another developer asked a very similar question a few months back and there’s some good discussion in that thread here: Launched new app how can i find customers.

Our guide on marketing your app covers organic strategies that are well suited to a small budget.

The go-to-market success guide is a good complement for the higher-level picture, and Built for Shopify is worth aiming for as a longer-term visibility play once you hit 50+ net installs and 5+ reviews. On the ad cost side, our advertising FAQ breaks down minimum budgets and bid mechanics so you can see whether there’s a lower-spend approach worth trying.

You may also want to check out some of our marketing courses in the Shopify academy. These are tailored to merchants, but the lessons can apply to marketing apps as well.

Hope that helps.