Starting a business is exciting, but managing finances, inventory, sales, and operations can be overwhelming—especially with limited resources. That’s where ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) software comes in. The right ERP system helps startups automate processes, reduce costs, and scale efficiently.
However, many startups can’t afford expensive ERP solutions like SAP or Oracle. Fortunately, there are free and low-cost ERP options tailored for small businesses. In this guide, we’ll explore the best free and affordable ERP software for startups in 2024.
Why Do Startups Need ERP Software?
Before diving into the best options, let’s understand why startups should consider ERP:
✅ Centralized Data Management – No more scattered spreadsheets; all business data is in one place.
✅ Cost Efficiency – Automates manual tasks, reducing labor costs.
✅ Improved Decision-Making – Real-time analytics help track performance.
✅ Scalability – Grows with your business without requiring a complete system overhaul.
✅ Better Customer Service – Integrates CRM, sales, and support for smoother operations.
Best Free ERP Software for Startups
1. Odoo (Community Edition) – Open-Source & Highly Customizable
🔹 Price: Free (Open-Source) | Paid plans start at $7.25/user/month
🔹 Best For: Small businesses needing modular ERP (CRM, Accounting, Inventory, etc.)
🔹 Pros:
100% free community edition with core features
30,000+ apps available in the Odoo marketplace
Strong inventory and manufacturing modules
🔹 Cons: Requires technical skills for self-hosting
2. ERPNext – Best for SMEs & Easy Setup
🔹 Price: Free (Self-Hosted) | Cloud starts at $10/user/month
🔹 Best For: Startups in retail, manufacturing, or services
🔹 Pros:
User-friendly interface
Includes accounting, HR, project management, and CRM
Strong open-source community support
🔹 Cons: Limited third-party integrations
3. Dolibarr – Simple & Lightweight ERP
🔹 Price: Free (Open-Source) | Paid hosting available
🔹 Best For: Micro-businesses and freelancers
🔹 Pros:
Easy to install and use
Good for invoicing, expense tracking, and basic CRM
🔹 Cons: Lacks advanced features like AI or automation
4. Apache OFBiz – Flexible for Developers
🔹 Price: Free (Open-Source)
🔹 Best For: Tech-savvy startups needing deep customization
🔹 Pros:
Highly flexible for custom ERP solutions
Supports e-commerce, accounting, and supply chain
🔹 Cons: Steep learning curve; requires coding knowledge
Best Low-Cost ERP Solutions for Startups
5. Zoho One – All-in-One Business Suite
🔹 Price: Starts at $37/user/month (billed annually)
🔹 Best For: Startups needing CRM, accounting, and project management
🔹 Pros:
40+ integrated apps (Zoho Books, CRM, Inventory, etc.)
Affordable compared to competitors like Salesforce
🔹 Cons: Some features require separate subscriptions
6. Wave Financial – Best Free Accounting ERP
🔹 Price: Free for accounting | Paid for payroll ($20/month)
🔹 Best For: Startups needing simple accounting & invoicing
🔹 Pros:
100% free for invoicing and accounting
Easy to use with no hidden costs
🔹 Cons: No inventory or advanced ERP features
7. Bitrix24 – Free CRM with ERP Features
🔹 Price: Free (up to 12 users) | Paid plans from $49/month
🔹 Best For: Startups needing CRM + task management
🔹 Pros:
Free plan includes CRM, project management, and communication tools
Good for remote teams
🔹 Cons: Limited storage in the free plan
8. SuiteDash – All-in-One Business Platform
🔹 Price: Starts at $19/month (unlimited users)
🔹 Best For: Service-based startups (agencies, consultants)
🔹 Pros:
Combines CRM, invoicing, project management, and email marketing
Affordable flat-rate pricing
🔹 Cons: Not ideal for manufacturing or complex inventory needs
How to Choose the Right ERP for Your Startup?
Assess Your Needs – Do you need accounting, inventory, CRM, or all three?
Check Scalability – Will the ERP grow with your business?
Consider Ease of Use – Can your team adapt quickly?
Look at Integration Options – Does it work with tools you already use?
Compare Pricing – Free vs. paid plans (watch for hidden costs).
Final Verdict: Which ERP is Best for Startups?
Best Free ERP: Odoo (for customization) or ERPNext (for ease of use)
Best Low-Cost ERP: Zoho One (all-in-one) or SuiteDash (budget-friendly)
If you’re a bootstrapped startup, start with a free ERP like Odoo or ERPNext. If you need more features, Zoho One or Bitrix24 offer great value.
Need Help Implementing ERP?
If you’re unsure which ERP fits your startup, consider consulting an ERP expert or testing free trials before committing.
Would you like a detailed comparison between two specific ERP systems? Let me know in the comments! 🚀