Something pretty amazing happened a last week. I put a question out on LinkedIn asking for recommendations of companies that are developing apps specifically for HubSpot?
I expected a few good recommendations. What I got was a flood. My inbox and comments were overflowing with founders, HubSpot admins, partners, and users, all passionate about tools that aren't just compatible with HubSpot, but were born and raised with HubSpot in their DNA.
I compiled a list of the companies that were recommended into a spreadsheet, and when I posted that, I got even more recommendations! Currently the list is at 42 companies and over 100 apps. (See the full list at the bottom of this newsletter)
It got me thinking, this is a sign of a massive shift. HubSpot is no longer just a CRM or a marketing tool. It's become the central nervous system for thousands of businesses. And the boom of these HubSpot-centric app developers is incredibly important for all of us in the HubSpot ecosystem.
But what does "HubSpot-centric" actually mean, why do I have a bias toward their apps, and why should you care? Let's break it down:
For You, the HubSpot User
On a personal level, this is all about making your day-to-day work easier and more effective. When an app is built specifically for HubSpot, it means:
A Seamless Experience: You're not jumping between two completely different-looking platforms. The user interface often feels like a natural extension of HubSpot or even exists within HubSpot's UI. Often, you're working with HubSpot's native tools like properties, object records, activities, and workflows.
Deeper Functionality: These apps go beyond the surface-level data sync by tapping into HubSpot's core architecture. Think of a reporting app that instantly understands your custom objects or a quoting tool that pulls deal data, product line items, and contact properties together flawlessly. It just works.
Less Friction, More Flow: You spend less time troubleshooting weird integration errors or trying to figure out why data isn't matching up. This means more time for you to focus on what you're actually trying to accomplish—whether that's closing a deal, solving a customer ticket, or launching a campaign.
For Your Company
At the company level, this focus on the HubSpot ecosystem is about maximizing investment and future-proofing your operations.
Better Data, Better Decisions: When your tools are deeply integrated, your data is more reliable. You get a single-source-of-truth, which leads to more accurate reporting and, ultimately, smarter business decisions. No more questioning which system has the "right" number.
Higher User Adoption: Let's be honest, if a tool is a pain to use, your team won't use it. By choosing apps that feel like part of HubSpot, you dramatically increase the chances that your team will embrace them. This drives consistency and ensures everyone is working from the same playbook.
A Bigger ROI on HubSpot: You’ve already invested time, money, and energy into HubSpot. These apps are like force multipliers. They extend the power of the platform, allowing you to solve specific business challenges without having to bolt on a completely separate, disconnected system.
For HubSpot Partners & Consultants
If you're an agency or consultant, this ecosystem is your playground for building incredible client solutions.
More Robust, "Sticky" Solutions: You can now solve even more complex client problems directly within their HubSpot portal. This allows you to deliver more value and makes your services indispensable. When you build a client's core business processes on a tightly integrated stack, you become a true strategic partner.
Efficiency and Scalability: You're not reinventing the wheel or building custom workarounds for every client. By leveraging these powerful, pre-built apps, you can deliver sophisticated solutions faster and more reliably, using the skills you already have built working in HubSpot's platform.
A Thriving Community: This ecosystem fosters collaboration. We can partner with app developers, share best practices, and collectively build our expertise to serve our clients better. My favorite part of the HubSpot community is that there is truly as "rising tide lifts all ships" mentality.
The Top HubSpot App Builders List
I know what you're really here for, and it's a look at this list. Check it out here!
The bottom line is this: The sheer number of developers choosing to build for HubSpot tells us that the platform has reached a new level of maturity. It’s a testament to the power and flexibility of the tools we’re all using every day.
So next time you're looking for a new tool, don't just ask if it "integrates with HubSpot." Ask if it was built for HubSpot. The difference is huge.
Do you have a favorite HubSpot-centric app or developer that I missed? I'd love to hear about them and add them to the list!