Starting a business is hard work. There are so many things to do and it can be easy to feel overwhelmed. That’s why it’s really important to invest in tools that can help you streamline your processes and get more work done. 

This guide provides the ultimate toolkit for startups. From enhancing productivity to managing your operations efficiently, these tools are handpicked based on their features, quality, and reputation. Read on to know more about some of the best startup tools.

Why Invest in Tools for Your Startup?

In the world of startups, every move you make matters. That’s why investing in the right tools is akin to fortifying your foundation for success. It’s not just about having shiny new gadgets; it’s about empowering your business to flourish in the face of challenges. Here’s why subscribing to diverse tools, even in the early stages, is a strategic move you can’t afford to overlook:

1. Boost Efficiency

At the heart of every tool is the promise of efficiency. These tools are like a well-trained team member that never sleeps or gets tired. They’ll handle repetitive tasks, freeing you and your team to focus on the creative and strategic aspects of your business. When you’re a startup, time is a precious resource, and these tools are the masters of time management.

2. Streamline Operations

As a startup, you’re spinning many plates at once. Tools can help you keep those plates spinning without a hiccup. From project management software to finance tracking, they’ll ensure your operations run smoothly, minimizing costly errors and maximizing productivity.

3. Professional Image

First impressions matter and tools can be the difference between looking like a fledgling startup and a seasoned pro. With the right tools, you can handle customer inquiries promptly, maintain an organized online presence, and deliver top-notch service, even when your team is small.

4. Data-Driven Decisions

Information is power, and tools provide a treasure trove of data. You’ll gain insights into your audience, track performance, and understand what’s working (and what isn’t). In a startup, data-driven decisions are a lifeline to sustainable growth.

5. Scalability

Successful startups don’t stay small forever. When you eventually expand, these tools can scale with you. A smooth process for a team of five can easily adapt to serve a team of 50. You’re future-proofing your business by investing in tools that grow with you.

15 Powerful Tools to Consider for Startups

These game-changing tools are handpicked based on their features, quality, and rock-solid reputation in the industry. As a startup, every decision counts, which is why we’ve curated a comprehensive list that covers a wide range of needs.

1. doola

Best for: Business formation/compliance

Features:

• Easy-to-use interface
• Affordable pricing
• Support for all US states and territories
• Help with EIN and registered agent
• Annual report filing
• 24/7 customer support
• Free registered agent service included in the Starter plan
• Seamless tool integrations

Pricing:

• Starter plan: $197 + state fees
• Premium plan: $897 + state fees
• Total Compliance plan: $1,999 /yr or $300 /mo

2. Carta

Best for: Cap table

Features:

• Real-time cap table tracking
• Easy-to-use interface
• Integration with other tools
• Investor communication tools

Pricing: Starts at $199 /mo

3. VirtualPostMail

Best for: Getting a physical address and managing postal mail online

Features:

• A secure platform for managing your postal mail online
• Get a physical address for opening bank accounts
• Mail scanning and electronic document delivery
• Check deposit service directly from your mailbox
• Option to forward mail to any global address

Pricing:

• Starter Plan: $20 /mo
• Plus Plan: $35 /mo
• Business Plan: $60 /mo
• Premium Plan: $90/mo

4. Asana

Best for: Task management

Features:

• Kanban boards
• Gantt charts
• Timelines
• Custom fields
• Integrations with other tools

Pricing:

• Free for up to 15 users
• Premium plan: $10.99 /user /mo
• Business plan: $24.99 /user /mo

5. Google Drive

Best for: File storage

Features:

• Unlimited file storage
• Real-time collaboration
• Mobile apps
• Integration with other Google products

Pricing:

• Free for up to 15GB of storage
• $1.99 /mo for 100GB of storage
• $9.99 /mo for 200GB of storage

6. Notion

Best for: Workspace

Features:

• Unlimited pages
• Custom templates
• Integrations with other tools
• Beautiful UI

Pricing:

• Free for up to 1,000 blocks
• Personal plan: $4 /mo
• Team plan: $8 /user /mo

7. Shopify

Best for: E-commerce

Features:

• Easy-to-use interface
• Powerful customization options
• A wide range of themes and apps
• Global shipping and payments

Pricing:

• Basic Shopify plan: $29 /mo
• Shopify plan: $79 /mo
• Advanced Shopify plan: $299 /mo

8. Canva

Best for: Design

Features:

• A wide range of templates
• Easy-to-use interface
• A large library of graphics and images
• Integration with other tools

Pricing:

• Free for basic features
• Canva Pro plan: $12.99 /mo
• Canva Enterprise plan: Contact Canva for pricing

9. AngelList

Best for: Fundraising

Features:

• Access to angel investors
• Investor matching service
• Deal flow notifications
• Portfolio management tools

Pricing:

• Free for basic features
• AngelList Pro plan: $299 /mo

10. Calendly

Best for: Scheduling

Features:

• Easy-to-use interface
• Integration with other tools
• Automatic time zone detection
• Availability tracking

Pricing:

• Free for basic features
• Pro plan: $8 /mo
• Premium plan: $12 /mo

11. Alfred App

Best for: Spotlight/ productivity app

Features:

• Powerful search functionality
• Custom shortcuts
• Integration with other tools
• Visualized search results

Pricing:

• Free for basic features
• Powerpack: $39.99 /mo

12. OpenPhone

Best for: Modern business phones

Features:

• VoIP calling
• Text messaging
• Call recording
• Integration with other tools

Pricing:

• Starter plan: $10 /mo
• Pro plan: $20 /mo
• Business plan: $30 /mo

13. Mercury

Best for: Banking

Features:

• No monthly fees
• No minimum balance requirements
• ATM fee reimbursement
• Foreign transaction fee reimbursement
• Early access to paychecks

Pricing: Free

14. Airtable

Best for: Next-gen apps

Features:

• Customizable database
• Integrations with other tools
• Automation
• Beautiful UI

Pricing:

• Free for up to 1,200 records
• Pro plan: $10 /mo
• Business plan: $20 /mo
• Enterprise plan: Contact Airtable for pricing

15. Intercom

Best for: Customer service

Features:

• Live chat
• In-app messaging
• Email support
• Customer feedback

Pricing:

• Free for up to 100 agents
• Starter plan: $39 /mo
• Growth plan: $99 /mo
• Pro plan: $299 /mo

16. Deel

Best for: Hiring

Features:

• International payments
• Electronic signatures
• Contract management
• Time tracking

Pricing:

• Free for up to 10 users
• Starter plan: $10 /mo
• Growth plan: $25 /mo
• Pro plan: $50 /mo

Equip Yourself With Tools For Success

Remember that the tools you choose can make a significant difference. These invaluable resources can help you overcome challenges, streamline operations, and build a professional image. It’s not the specific tools that matter most but rather the commitment to taking action and moving forward. So, whether you’re in the early stages or growing, keep in mind that investing in the right tools, along with your passion and determination, will propel you toward success.

Doola is a great option for startups that need help with their bookkeeping and other needs, such as LLC formation and registered agent services. Doola is easy to use and affordable and can help you save time and money. It also offers a number of features that are specifically designed for startups, such as automated expense tracking and invoicing.

The startup world is filled with possibilities, and with the right tools by your side, you’ll be ready to seize them and shape your entrepreneurial destiny. Get started, and let your vision shine.

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