To add a creator in Dapple, either create one automatically when manually adding a submission, or add one directly from the Creators section → Add Creator. A creator profile holds everything about a person across every project — submissions, messages, payments, tags, external links, bio. Most creators get auto-created the moment they submit through a public form.
What is a creator?
A creator is anyone who submits work to your organisation. They could also be called a submitter, applicant or entrant but we prefer creator. Each creator has a single profile that follows them across every project they enter. Their profile tracks submissions, messages, payments, tags, and any external links or bio they've added.
How are creators usually created?
Most creators are auto-created the moment they make their first submission through a public form. You only need to manually add a creator in two situations: when you're manually logging an external submission, or when you want to pre-populate a creator profile before they've submitted.
Option 1: Add a creator when adding a submission
Open Submissions → Add Submission.
Choose the project.
Fill in the submission details.
When prompted to link to a creator, choose Add new creator.
Enter the creator's name and email.
Save — the creator profile is created automatically and linked to the submission.
Full submission flow: How to Manually Add a Submission to Dapple
Option 2: Add a creator directly
Open the Creators section in the left-hand sidebar.
Click Add Creator.
Fill in the creator's details:
Name — the creator's full name.
Email — for communication and identification.
Date of birth — optional, useful for categorisation or eligibility.
Review the profile.
Save.
What's on a creator profile?
Section | What it shows |
Submissions | Every submission this creator has made across every project. |
Messages | Every message sent or received with this creator. |
Payments | Submission fees, tip jar contributions, and any other payments. |
External links | Portfolio, CV, social media, or any URLs the creator has added. |
Bio | Free-text bio added by the creator or by your team. |
Tags | Creator Tags applied by your team (Alumni, Mentor, VIP, etc.). |
Best practice
Check for duplicates before adding — search the Creators section first.
Fill in as much information as you have at the time. You can always add more later.
Apply Creator Tags during creation — saves a step and keeps tagging consistent.
Update profiles regularly. If a creator gets a new email or portfolio link, keep it current.
Where to go next