16 Best ERP for Startups Reviewed in 2025
Best ERP for Startups Shortlist
Here’s my shortlist of the best ERP for startups:
Our one-on-one guidance will help you find the perfect fit.
Running a startup is no easy feat—and when your systems are decentralized, it only adds to the chaos. As transactions grow and reporting needs evolve, the inefficiencies start piling up, and while an ERP for startups is the logical next step, finding the right software can feel like another headache.
As a financial controller, I understand how important it is to strike a balance between functionality, scalability, and ease of use—especially when your team is lean, and every dollar counts.
That’s why I put together this list. I personally tested and reviewed each ERP for startups, focusing on core financials, real-time data, user experience, and integration flexibility. This selection is designed to help you find a system that works now and grows with you. Let’s get started.
Need expert help selecting the right tool?
With one-on-one help, we guide you to your top software options. Narrow down your software search & make a confident choice.
Why Trust Our Software Reviews
We’ve been testing and reviewing finance and accounting software since 2023. As CFOs ourselves, we know how critical and difficult it is to make the right decision when selecting software. We invest in deep research to help our audience make better software purchasing decisions.
We’ve tested more than 2,000 tools for different finance and accounting use cases and written over 1,000 comprehensive software reviews. Learn how we stay transparent & check out our software review methodology.
Best ERP for Startups Summary
This comparison chart summarizes pricing details for my top ERP for startups selections to help you find the best one for your budget and business needs.
| Tool | Best For | Trial Info | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Best for cloud-based access | Free demo available | From $1,000/month | Website | |
| 2 | Best for distribution businesses | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 3 | Best for integration with Office 365 | 30-day free trial | From $110/5 users/month (billed annually) + a $4,500 implementation fee | Website | |
| 4 | Best for people-centric organizations | Not available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 5 | Best for project-based businesses | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 6 | Best for asset management | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 7 | Best for mid-sized companies | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 8 | Best for small businesses | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 9 | Best for open-source flexibility | Free trial available | From $7.25/user/month | Website | |
| 10 | Best for manufacturing firms | Free demo available | From $199/month | Website |
-
LiveFlow
Visit WebsiteThis is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.9 -
Float Financial
Visit Website -
Vena
Visit WebsiteThis is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.5
Best ERP for Startups Review
Below are my detailed summaries of the best ERP for startups that made it onto my shortlist. My reviews offer an in-depth look at the key features, pros & cons, integrations, and ideal use cases of each tool to help you find the best one for you.
Acumatica is a cloud-based ERP system designed for midmarket companies across industries like manufacturing, distribution, and retail. It helps businesses manage financials, inventory, and customer relationships efficiently.
Why I picked Acumatica: Acumatica is built entirely on a modern cloud architecture, allowing your team to work from anywhere without sacrificing speed or data integrity. The software delivers the flexibility most startups require, with real-time access to financials, operations, and customer data from any device. Unlike legacy systems with clunky remote access, Acumatica’s browser-based platform also scales effortlessly as your business grows, with role-based dashboards and built-in collaboration tools that keep everyone aligned and informed.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include real-time production insights, advanced financial management, and ecommerce integration. Your team can also benefit from the Professional Services Management solution tailored for project-based firms.
Integrations include QuickBooks, Microsoft Dynamics, Salesforce, Shopify, Avalara, Magento, HubSpot, Docusign, Office 365, and PayPal.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Cloud-based flexibility
- Real-time insights
- Flexible licensing
Cons:
- Complex setup for some users
- Limited offline capabilities
Epicor Prophet 21 is an ERP solution tailored for distribution businesses, supporting functions like inventory management and order processing. It helps businesses optimize their supply chain and improve customer service.
Why I picked Epicor Prophet 21: Epicor Prophet 21 offers specialized tools for distribution, including advanced inventory management and order fulfillment features. Its cloud-based architecture supports scalability, while built-in industry tools like demand forecasting, multi-location inventory management, and customer-specific pricing help avoid the chaos of decentralized systems. This makes it especially valuable for lean teams that need automation and insights without hiring a full IT department.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include order processing, which supports quick and accurate order fulfillment. Additionally, its real-time analytics offer insights into your supply chain performance.
Integrations include Salesforce, Microsoft Dynamics, Amazon Web Services, Shopify, Magento, PayPal, QuickBooks, Microsoft Office, Avalara, and Docusign.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Real-time supply chain insights
- Supports complex logistics
- Enhances customer service
Cons:
- Setup can be time-consuming
- Requires training for new users
Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central is an ERP solution designed for SMB businesses. It helps manage financials, sales, and operations, offering a comprehensive view of your business processes.
Why I picked Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central: Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central integrates natively and seamlessly across the entire Microsoft ecosystem, so your team can work where they already operate. You can send quotes, manage invoices, and approve workflows directly from Outlook without switching platforms, while real-time financial data flows straight into Excel for instant analysis and reporting.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include detailed financial management tools that help you oversee your accounting processes. The sales and service management feature supports customer interactions and order processing. Plus, its supply chain management tools ensure efficient inventory and logistics control.
Integrations include Microsoft Office 365, Power BI, Shopify, PayPal, Docusign, LinkedIn, Microsoft Teams, Azure, Salesforce, and Outlook.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Comprehensive financial tools
- Enhanced collaboration features
- Scalable for growing businesses
Cons:
- Initial setup complexity
- Not ideal for those outside of Microsoft ecosystem
Unit4 is an ERP system designed for service-oriented organizations, such as professional services and public sector entities. It assists in managing financials, human resources, and project management, focusing on enhancing employee engagement and productivity.
Why I picked Unit4: Unit4 focuses on what many ERPs overlook: the user experience of the people actually using the system. For startups where teams wear multiple hats and need tools that don’t slow them down, Unit4 stands out with intuitive workflows, self-service features, and AI-driven automation that minimizes manual tasks. Its modular design also lets you scale up gradually, making it easy to change as you grow.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include advanced HR management tools that help you oversee employee development and engagement. The project management feature supports planning and execution, ensuring projects stay on track. Additionally, its financial management tools provide advanced reporting and compliance support.
Integrations include Microsoft Office 365, Salesforce, Microsoft Azure, LinkedIn, Google Workspace, Adobe, SAP, Oracle, Slack, and Docusign.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Focus on employee experience
- Comprehensive financial reporting
- Supports project planning
Cons:
- Complex customization options
- Requires training for optimal use
Deltek is an ERP solution designed mainly for project-driven businesses, like those in architecture, engineering, and consulting. It helps manage project lifecycle, financials, and resource planning effectively.
Why I picked Deltek: Deltek offers specialized tools for project-based businesses, helping teams manage projects from end to end. Unlike general ERPs, Deltek gives startups in fields like consulting, engineering, or creative services the tools to monitor project profitability in real time, allocate staff efficiently, and stay compliant with client requirements. Additionally, its focus on project intelligence makes it easier for young businesses to grow without losing control over margins or timelines.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include project accounting to streamline your billing and financial processes. The resource management feature helps you allocate and optimize your team's workload. Additionally, its time and expense tracking ensures accurate client billing.
Integrations include Microsoft Outlook, Salesforce, QuickBooks, Microsoft Excel, Adobe, Oracle, SAP, Workday, Slack, and HubSpot.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Strong time tracking
- Detailed project reporting
- Resource scheduling features
Cons:
- Can be complex to set up
- Limited customization options
IFS is an ERP solution designed for industries like aerospace, defense, and manufacturing, focusing on asset management and service. It helps manage operations, projects, and supply chains, offering value through detailed asset tracking and maintenance.
Why I picked IFS: IFS is ideal for businesses managing high-value assets, whether in manufacturing, energy, or field service. It offers advanced tools for tracking asset lifecycles, predictive maintenance, and cost optimization, all within a unified ERP environment. Unlike many bloated systems, IFS is flexible enough to implement only what you need, avoiding unnecessary overhead while giving you real-time visibility into asset performance and ROI.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include advanced maintenance scheduling to keep your equipment running efficiently. The real-time asset monitoring feature provides insights into asset performance and health. Plus, its project management tools support planning and execution in complex environments.
Integrations include Microsoft Azure, Microsoft Dynamics, Salesforce, SAP, Oracle, IBM Maximo, Google Workspace, Autodesk, QuickBooks, and Slack.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Detailed maintenance scheduling
- Real-time asset monitoring
- Supports complex project management
Cons:
- Can be complex to implement
- Frequent software updates needed
Priority is an ERP system aimed at mid-sized businesses across various industries. It assists in managing financials, operations, and customer relationships efficiently.
Why I picked Priority: Priority offers a range of features tailored for mid-sized companies, including financial management and inventory control. The software’s flexibility allows you to customize workflows to suit your business needs, while its user-friendly interface helps your team quickly adapt to the system.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include advanced financial management to streamline your accounting processes. The inventory control feature helps you manage stock levels efficiently. Additionally, its customer relationship management tools enhance your interactions with clients.
Integrations include Salesforce, Microsoft Office, Magento, Shopify, PayPal, Amazon, WooCommerce, Mailchimp, Zendesk, and QuickBooks.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Customizable workflows
- User-friendly interface
- Strong financial management tools
Cons:
- Can be costly for small firms
- Limited advanced features
SAP Business One is an ERP solution designed for small to medium-sized enterprises, helping manage financials, sales, and operations efficiently. It is tailored to support growing businesses by enhancing their operational processes.
Why I picked SAP Business One: SAP Business One delivers enterprise-level capabilities in a package that's accessible for startups. What makes it ideal for startups is its flexibility to scale as the business grows, while still being lightweight enough to implement without an in-house IT department. With real-time data insights, strong integration options, and a proven track record in helping small teams get organized fast, SAP Business One is a solid foundation for building smarter operations from day one.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include financial management tools that help streamline your accounting processes. The sales management feature supports customer interactions and order processing. Plus, its inventory management ensures efficient handling of stock and logistics.
Integrations include Microsoft Office, Salesforce, Shopify, Magento, QuickBooks, PayPal, Amazon, FedEx, UPS, and Adobe.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Comprehensive financial tools
- Supports sales tracking
- Tailored for small enterprises
Cons:
- Setup can be complex
- Regular updates required
Odoo is an open-source ERP system designed for businesses of all sizes, offering a wide range of business applications. It supports functions like CRM, accounting, and inventory management, providing a customizable platform for various business needs.
Why I picked Odoo: Odoo gives you full control without locking you into expensive licensing or rigid functionality. As your startup evolves, you can start lean with core modules like invoicing or CRM, then expand into inventory, manufacturing, or HR as your needs grow—all while customizing workflows and interfaces to match your processes. Its open-source nature means you're not tied to a vendor's roadmap; you can adapt, integrate, or scale however your business demands.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include an advanced CRM system that helps manage customer relationships effectively. The accounting feature provides tools for financial management and reporting. Additionally, its inventory management system ensures efficient stock control and logistics.
Integrations include PayPal, eBay, Amazon, QuickBooks, WooCommerce, Shopify, Magento, Microsoft Office 365, Google Workspace, and Slack.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Open-source customization
- Scalable for different business sizes
- Extensive feature set for all business types
Cons:
- Limited out-of-the-box functionality
- Customization can be time-consuming
SYSPRO is an enterprise resource planning system tailored for manufacturing and distribution sectors. It helps businesses manage operations, financials, and supply chain processes efficiently.
Why I picked SYSPRO: SYSPRO is purpose-built to handle the complexities of production operations without overwhelming smaller teams. It offers deep functionality in areas like inventory control, materials resource planning (MRP), and shop floor scheduling, which is often lacking in more generic ERPs. The software also offers a modular approach, allowing you to scale capabilities as your processes mature.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include advanced inventory management, which helps you track and optimize stock levels. The production planning feature also aids in scheduling and resource allocation.
Integrations include Microsoft Office, Salesforce, Sage, Shopify, Magento, Amazon, EDI, CADLink, Crystal Reports, and ABBYY.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Tailored for manufacturing
- Customizable workflows
- Strong production control
Cons:
- Steep learning curve
- Frequent updates needed
Other ERP for Startups
Here are some additional ERP for startups options that didn’t make it onto my shortlist, but are still worth checking out:
- SAP S/4 HANA
For real-time analytics
- ECI Macola
For manufacturing automation
- QuickBooks
For small business accounting
- ERPNext
For open-source development
- Sage Intacct
For financial management
- Oracle NetSuite
For global businesses
ERP for Startups Selection Criteria
When selecting the best ERP for startups to include in this list, I considered common buyer needs and pain points like scalability and ease of integration. I also used the following framework to keep my evaluation structured and fair:
Core Functionality (25% of total score)
To be considered for inclusion in this list, each solution had to fulfill these common use cases:
- Manage financials
- Track inventory
- Facilitate sales orders
- Support customer relationship management
- Provide real-time reporting
Additional Standout Features (25% of total score)
To help further narrow down the competition, I also looked for unique features, such as:
- Advanced analytics capabilities
- AI-driven automation
- Industry-specific modules
- Mobile accessibility
- Customizable dashboards
Usability (10% of total score)
To get a sense of the usability of each system, I considered the following:
- Intuitive user interface
- Minimal learning curve
- Responsive design
- Easy navigation
- Clear instructions
Onboarding (10% of total score)
To evaluate the onboarding experience for each platform, I considered the following:
- Availability of training videos
- Interactive product tours
- Access to webinars
- Comprehensive templates
- Supportive chatbots
Customer Support (10% of total score)
To assess each software provider’s customer support services, I considered the following:
- 24/7 availability
- Multiple support channels
- Quick response times
- Knowledgeable staff
- Comprehensive help center
Value For Money (10% of total score)
To evaluate the value for money of each platform, I considered the following:
- Competitive pricing
- Transparent pricing structure
- Flexible payment options
- Discounts for long-term contracts
- Free trial availability
Customer Reviews (10% of total score)
To get a sense of overall customer satisfaction, I considered the following when reading customer reviews:
- Positive feedback trends
- Commonly mentioned issues
- Resolution of complaints
- User satisfaction ratings
- Comparison with competitors
How to Choose ERP for Startups
It’s easy to get bogged down in long feature lists and complex pricing structures. To help you stay focused as you work through your unique software selection process, here’s a checklist of factors to keep in mind:
| Factor | What to Consider |
| Scalability | Ensure the software can grow with your business. Look for solutions that can handle increased data volumes and additional users without compromising performance. |
| Integrations | Check if the ERP integrates with existing tools your team uses, like CRM systems, accounting software, or eCommerce platforms, to ensure smooth data flow. |
| Customizability | Evaluate how easily you can tailor the software to fit your unique business processes. Customizable dashboards and workflows are crucial for efficiency. |
| Ease of Use | Consider the learning curve for your team. An intuitive interface and clear instructions can reduce training time and improve productivity. |
| Budget | Align the software's pricing with your financial constraints. Consider total cost, including implementation costs, training, and potential upgrades. |
| Security Safeguards | Verify the software's data protection measures. Look for encryption, user access controls, and compliance with industry standards to safeguard your information. |
| Support | Assess the availability and quality of customer support. 24/7 support and multiple communication channels can be vital during critical issues. |
| Implementation Time | Understand the time required to fully implement the software. Quick deployment can minimize business disruption and speed up ROI. |
Trends in ERP for Startups
In my research, I sourced countless product updates, press releases, and release logs from different ERP for startups vendors. Here are some of the emerging trends I’m keeping an eye on:
- AI-Driven Insights: More ERP systems are incorporating AI to provide predictive analytics and insights. These tools help businesses anticipate market trends and make data-driven decisions.
- Cloud-Based Solutions: Startups (especially in SaaS spaces) are increasingly opting for cloud ERP instead of on-premise solutions to reduce IT costs and improve accessibility. This trend allows businesses to access their data from anywhere, ensuring flexibility and scalability.
- Enhanced User Interfaces: Vendors, like Microsoft Dynamics, are focusing on improving UI design to enhance user experience. With a clean, intuitive interface, teams can navigate the system more efficiently without extensive training.
- Focus on Sustainability: ERP systems are starting to include features that help companies track and reduce their carbon footprint. This trend aligns with global sustainability goals, providing tools for better resource management.
- Industry-Specific Solutions: There's a growing trend towards ERP systems tailored to specific industries. These solutions offer specialized features that cater directly to industry needs, such as compliance and regulatory requirements.
What Is ERP for Startups?
ERP for startups is a type of software solution designed to help new and growing businesses manage various operations like finance, sales, and inventory. These tools are generally used by business owners, managers, and finance professionals who need to coordinate different areas of their business efficiently.
ERP for startups generally come with key features, including financial management, inventory control, and customer relationship management to help with streamlining operations, improving decision-making, and increasing productivity. Overall, these tools provide startups with the necessary infrastructure to grow and succeed in a competitive market.
Features of ERP for Startups
When selecting ERP for startups, keep an eye out for the following key features:
- Financial Management: Helps manage your accounting and financial reporting, ensuring accurate financial data and compliance.
- Inventory Control: Allows you to track stock levels and optimize inventory, reducing waste and stockouts.
- Customer Relationship Management: Manages interactions with customers, enhancing sales and customer service efforts.
- Real-Time Analytics: Provides insights into business operations, helping with informed decision-making and strategy planning.
- Project Management: Supports planning and execution of projects, ensuring they stay on track and within budget.
- Scalability: Enables the system to grow with your business, accommodating increased data and user demands.
- Customizability: Lets you tailor the software to fit specific business processes, improving efficiency and effectiveness.
- Cloud Accessibility: Offers access to the system from anywhere, supporting remote work and flexibility.
- AI-Driven Insights: Uses artificial intelligence to predict trends and provide actionable business insights.
- Security Safeguards: Ensures data protection with encryption and access controls, safeguarding your business information.
Benefits of ERP for Startups
Implementing ERP for startups provides several benefits for your team and your business. Here are a few you can look forward to:
- Improved Efficiency: Automating tasks like financial reporting and inventory management saves time and reduces errors.
- Better Decision-Making: Real-time analytics give you valuable insights into your business operations, helping you make informed choices.
- Enhanced Customer Satisfaction: CRM features help manage customer interactions, leading to better service and stronger relationships.
- Scalability: As your business grows, the ERP system can expand to accommodate more data and users without losing performance.
- Cost Savings: Optimizing inventory and automating processes can reduce operational costs and improve your bottom line.
- Increased Collaboration: Cloud accessibility allows team members to work together from anywhere, fostering better communication and teamwork.
- Security and Compliance: Built-in security safeguards protect your data and help ensure compliance with industry regulations.
Costs and Pricing of ERP for Startups
Selecting ERP for startups requires an understanding of the various pricing models and plans available. Costs vary based on features, team size, add-ons, and more. The table below summarizes common plans, their average prices, and typical features included in ERP for startups solutions:
Plan Comparison Table for ERP for Startups
| Plan Type | Average Price | Common Features |
| Free Plan | $0 | Basic financial management, limited CRM, and basic reporting. |
| Personal Plan | $5-$25/user/month | Enhanced financial tools, basic inventory control, and simple analytics. |
| Business Plan | $30-$60/user/month | Advanced inventory management, full CRM capabilities, and comprehensive reporting. |
| Enterprise Plan | $75-$150/user/month | Customizable workflows, real-time analytics, and full integration capabilities. |
ERP for Startups FAQs
Here are some answers to common questions about ERP for startups:
What ERP do startups use?
Startups often use cloud-based ERP software like Oracle NetSuite or Odoo due to their flexibility and scalability. These platforms offer essential features for growing businesses, such as financial management and inventory control, while allowing for easy integration with other tools.
What are the three challenges of ERP?
The main challenges of ERP implementation include data security, high initial costs, and customization difficulties. Ensuring your data is protected, managing the upfront investment, and tailoring the system to fit your processes can be complex but crucial for success.
What are the golden rules of ERP?
The golden rules of ERP include taking small steps, focusing on core processes first, and ensuring collaboration between teams. Start with basic functions, gradually expand capabilities, and maintain open communication to ensure the system aligns with your business needs.
How do you ensure successful ERP implementation?
To ensure successful ERP implementation, plan thoroughly, involve key stakeholders, and provide adequate training. Develop a clear roadmap, engage your team early in the process, and invest in training to minimize disruption and maximize adoption.
What industries benefit most from ERP systems?
Industries like manufacturing, distribution, and retail benefit significantly from ERP systems. These sectors require efficient management of inventory, supply chains, and customer interactions, which ERP systems can streamline, leading to improved productivity and profitability.
What's Next?
Ready to compound your abilities as a finance professional? Subscribe to our free newsletter.