Why Bubble for CRM?
Bubble is a visual development tool that allows you to create full-stack web applications without writing code, making it particularly well-suited for CRMs that require robust data management, automation, and user interactions. Technically, Bubble's backend database and workflow engine enable complex data handling and real-time updates, while strategically, it offers rapid prototyping, cost savings, and easy iterations—perfect for businesses needing a customizable CRM without the overhead of traditional development.
Comparison to Alternatives
- Traditional Development (e.g., Coding with Ruby on Rails or Laravel):
Building a CRM from scratch requires skilled developers, months of work, and high costs (often $50,000+ depending on complexity). Bubble accelerates this process to weeks, with no coding needed, reducing expenses significantly and allowing non-technical founders to maintain the app themselves. However, traditional development offers more granular control over infrastructure and performance optimization for extremely high-scale needs.
Bubble vs Traditional development
- Glide: Suitable for simple mobile or web apps built from spreadsheets, but it lacks Bubble's depth in custom backend logic and advanced workflow automation, making it less suitable for complex CRM features like multi-user permissions, relational data models, or custom logic.
- Webflow:Excellent for designing marketing websites with CMS capabilities, but it lacks server-side logic, database-level automation, and native API workflow handling functionalities, limiting its use for fully functional CRMs requiring backend processing and integrations.
- Adalo: Focused primarily on building native mobile apps, Adalo features limited web app functionality and less backend extensibility. Bubble’s stronger web-first approach, including custom logic, robust privacy roles, and responsive web design, makes it better suited for CRM systems that need desktop dashboard functionality and scalability.
Bubble shines for CRMs because it balances ease of use with powerful features, enabling custom solutions that evolve with your business—unlike more rigid tools.
Related: Bubble.io Review
Key Features of Bubble for CRM
Here are 3–5 standout features that make Bubble especially useful for CRM development:
- Robust Database and Data Management:Bubble's built-in database allows you to define custom data types for contacts, deals, tasks, and interactions, using privacy rules to ensure secure access. This is vital for CRMs handling sensitive customer data and supports real-time querying and relationships (e.g., linking a deal to multiple contacts) without requiring external databases like Firebase.
- Workflow Automation: Automate CRM processes such as sending follow-up emails, updating deal statuses, or notifying users through integrations with services like SendGrid, Twilio, and others. This functionality is more advanced than automation offered by tools like Glide, which are built more for lightweight use cases.
- User Authentication and Roles: Bubble supports secure user login with role-based access control (e.g., individual users access their data, managers see analytics dashboards). The system supports two-factor authentication and robust privacy rules, providing more flexibility compared to Webflow, which has basic membership options primarily through third-party integrations.
- API Integrations and Extensibility: Easily connect to services like Google Calendar, Stripe, and Zapier using Bubble’s API Connector, allowing your CRM to integrate with broader business workflows. This provides greater extensibility than Adalo, which has more limited third-party integration capabilities and is optimized for mobile features.
- Responsive Design and Scalability: Bubble enables mobile-responsive designs adaptable to mobile, tablet, or desktop screens. While Bubble can support large user bases, apps requiring high-performance at scale may need optimization. Still, it's generally more scalable for CRM use than spreadsheet-based tools like Glide, which can encounter performance bottlenecks with large datasets and complex logic.
Our Evaluation Framework
We prioritized agencies that excel in building robust CRM apps on Bubble.io. My rankings for the “Top Bubble Agencies for CRM” are based on a rigorous evaluation of their proven capabilities, tailored to the unique demands of CRM systems like contact management, workflow automation, and data security. Here are the key criteria I used:
Expertise in CRM-Specific Features
Agencies were assessed on their track record in implementing Bubble's data types and workflows for core CRM elements, such as lead tracking, pipeline management, and custom dashboards, ensuring effective user experiences for sales teams.
Integration Capabilities with CRM Tools
I evaluated how well agencies integrate Bubble apps with widely used CRM ecosystems like Salesforce and HubSpot, along with email and communication APIs such as SendGrid or Twilio, focusing on real-time data syncing and automation to enhance productivity within a no-code environment.
Scalability and Performance for Data-Intensive Apps
Rankings considered agencies' ability to optimize Bubble databases for managing larger datasets associated with CRM usage, including the implementation of efficient searching, filtering, and backend workflows to minimize performance bottlenecks as the user base scales.
Security and Compliance Focus
Agencies scored highly if they demonstrate proficiency with Bubble's privacy rules and security settings, and show awareness of legal compliance requirements such as GDPR and CCPA, with practical implementation of role-based permissions and data protection strategies for CRM applications.
Client Success Stories in CRM Development
I reviewed publicly available case studies and client testimonials from verified CRM projects on Bubble, focusing on meaningful outcomes like increased sales team efficiency, shortened time-to-market, or customized feature sets that addressed industry-specific CRM needs.
Innovation and Customization for CRM Needs
Top agencies were those demonstrating advanced use of Bubble’s plugin ecosystem and custom JavaScript via the Toolbox plugin or APIs, crafting CRMs tailored to specific verticals such as real estate, e-commerce, or healthcare, and enabling scalable, adaptable solutions that align with evolving business processes.
Top 5 Bubble Agencies for CRM development
Goodspeed Studio
Goodspeed Studio is a top-tier Bubble Gold Partner and winner of Bubble Agency of the Year (2024) known for building custom, vertical CRMs that replace fragmented spreadsheets and manual workflows with clean, automated, and user-friendly platforms.
Unlike agencies that lean on generic, Salesforce-style templates, Goodspeed’s approach is domain-specific by design. Every CRM they build mirrors your unique processes, integrates seamlessly with tools like Stripe, Segment, OpenAI, and Zapier/Make, and ships fast — often in 4–8 weeks.
Their work on Freeholder - a property SaaS platform with CRM-grade workflows like centralised records, tenant messaging, and automated reminders — showcases Goodspeed’s strength in building tailored, automation-first systems that feel purpose-built.
If you want a tailored, automation-first CRM with exceptional UX and speed-to-market baked in, Goodspeed outperforms broader “one-size-fits-all” solutions. They don’t just deliver software; they deliver clarity, speed, and scalability, giving teams tools that feel like they were built in-house.
AirDev
AirDev is one of the most established Bubble agencies, trusted for delivering enterprise-grade CRMs with speed, structure, and scalability. Their proprietary Canvas framework provides a robust foundation for CRM builds—covering secure user authentication, multi-role permissions, pipeline tracking, reporting dashboards, and third-party integrations out of the box.
Their track record includes Teach For America’s custom CRM, delivered in just weeks, replacing complex spreadsheets and manual workflows with a scalable, mobile-friendly solution. AirDev’s process spans discovery, UX design, development, and post-launch documentation, allowing clients to scale confidently or bring maintenance in-house. For teams seeking a CRM that’s stable, performant, and extensible from day one, AirDev is the gold standard.
Rapid Dev
Rapid Dev is a fast-moving Bubble agency known for shipping CRM MVPs in a matter of weeks, enabling founders and teams to test and refine their workflows early. They specialise in clean database architecture, well-documented workflows, and modular designs that can evolve into full-featured CRMs over time.
Their experience spans custom pipelines, task and activity tracking, team assignment dashboards, CSV/PDF exports, and third-party automation integrations (Zapier, Make, Airtable). Projects like ChurchSpace highlight their ability to build multi-role, data-heavy apps with notifications, payments, and structured records—patterns directly applicable to CRM builds.
Rapid Dev is a great choice for teams that want a fast, functional CRM MVP, the flexibility to iterate post-launch, and strong handover documentation for internal teams to manage and scale.
Idea Link
Idea Link is a seasoned European Bubble agency that excels in data-heavy, multi-role systems—perfect for complex CRMs requiring large data sets, intricate permissioning, and high-performance searches. They often augment Bubble with Xano or custom APIs, enabling advanced back-end capabilities where needed.
Their Open Infra project (a large-scale operations ERP) demonstrates their ability to build multi-actor platforms with GPS tracking, scheduling, approvals, and reporting dashboards—core building blocks of a robust CRM. Their portfolio showcases similar custom solutions across telecom, logistics, and asset management sectors.
Choose Idea Link if you need a scalable, enterprise CRM platform designed for thousands of records, strict permissions, complex workflows, and long-term performance without technical debt.
Minimum Studio
Minimum Studio is a boutique Bubble agency focused on data-centric platforms and client management systems, making them a strong choice for custom CRMs where usability and design matter. They’re known for clean, mobile-friendly UI, advanced search and filtering, and role-based dashboards that streamline communication and tracking.
Their portfolio includes Swap Homes and TheHair.App, both multi-user platforms with listing management, messaging, scheduling, and payment workflows—patterns that translate directly into a tailored CRM experience. Minimum Studio shines when you need a CRM that feels modern and frictionless, with strong UX design layered on top of a reliable Bubble architecture.
TL;DR
Agency | Bubble Partner Tier | Avg Build Time | Starting Budget | Notable Project |
Goodspeed Studio | Gold Partner | 4–8 weeks | ~$15k–$25k | Freeholder – property SaaS with CRM-grade workflows |
AirDev | Gold Partner | ~6–10 weeks | From ~$10k | Teach For America custom CRM |
Rapid Dev | Gold Partner | 4–8 weeks (12 wks with mobile) | From ~$1k | ChurchSpace – data-heavy multi-role app |
Idea Link | Gold Partner | ~6–8 weeks | ~€20k–€55k | Open Infra – telecom ERP/CRM platform |
Evodev | Gold Partner | ~4–6 weeks | From ~$5K | Rapid MVPs, AI-enabled SaaS & CRMs across 150 projects |
Case Study: Revetize
Revetize is a customer relationship management (CRM) platform built entirely on Bubble, designed specifically for local businesses and service providers that rely on referrals, reviews, and repeat customers. It combines the core functions of a CRM—such as a centralised customer database with segmentation, tagging, and engagement history—with marketing automation that drives growth. Businesses can launch and track referral campaigns, request and manage reviews across Google, Facebook, and Yelp through automated SMS and email workflows, and set up loyalty programs with points and rewards tied directly to customer profiles. Communication is streamlined via integrated SMS and email campaigns (powered by APIs like Twilio and SendGrid), while dashboards provide real-time reporting on referrals, review performance, and ROI. By focusing on this niche, Revetize avoids the bloat of traditional CRMs like Salesforce, delivering a lean, automation-first solution that empowers small teams to manage relationships, increase visibility, and build loyalty—all without the cost or complexity of enterprise tools.
Related: Most successful Bubble app examples
Cost & Timeline Benchmarks
When building a CRM app with Bubble, costs and timelines vary based on complexity—from a simple MVP focused on core features like contact management and basic tracking, to mid-complexity versions with integrations and automation, up to complex scalable builds handling large user bases, advanced analytics, and custom workflows. These tiers help set expectations, but actual figures depend on specific requirements. Factors influencing cost include the use of premium plugins (e.g., for advanced data visualization or integrations), API connections to external services like email providers or payment gateways, and team involvement—solo developers might keep costs lower but take longer, while agencies with designers and testers add expertise but increase expenses. Custom code (via Bubble’s plugin or code injection options), data privacy features, or scalability needs (like handling high traffic) can also drive up both cost and time.
Timelines are estimates assuming a standard development process, including planning, building, testing, and iterations. Simple MVPs can launch quickly with Bubble's no-code tools, while complex builds require more robust architecture to ensure performance. Always factor in post-launch maintenance, as Bubble's subscription (currently starting at $32/month for the Basic plan as of 2024) is separate from development costs. For a CRM, prioritize features like user authentication, privacy rules, and database architecture early to avoid rework.
Tier | Description | Cost Range (USD) | Timeline Range |
Simple / MVP | Basic CRM with core features—contact lists, tasks, simple reporting; minimal or no integrations | $5K–$15K (no-code MVP estimate) | 2–6 weeks (typical simple MVP) |
Standard / Mid-complexity | Adds automations, email integrations, dashboards, moderate user roles, plugins/APIs | $15K–$40K (scaled-up MVP) | 6–12 weeks (mid-range Bubble builds) |
Complex / Scalable builds | Enterprise-level with analytics, AI, custom APIs, high scalability, compliance | $40K–$100K+ (full-feature MVP to product) | 12–32 weeks+ (enterprise-grade timelines) |
Implementation Checklist
1. Scope the Project: Define the core features of your CRM app, such as contact management, lead tracking, and reporting. Key questions: What are the must-have functionalities? Who is the target user? Deliverable: A project scope document outlining goals and requirements.
2. Plan the Data Structure: Map out the database schema in Bubble, including data types like users, contacts, deals, and tasks. Key questions: What relationships exist between data (e.g., one-to-many)? Deliverable: A data model diagram or list of Bubble data types.
3. Design the User Interface: Create wireframes and set up pages in Bubble for dashboards, forms, and lists using responsive elements. Key questions: How will users navigate? What branding elements to include? Deliverable: Initial page layouts and UI prototypes.
4. Build Core Workflows: Implement backend logic in Bubble for actions like adding contacts, updating deals, and sending notifications via workflows and APIs. Key questions: What triggers each workflow? Any external integrations needed? Deliverable: Functional workflows for key user interactions.
5. Set Up User Authentication and Security: Configure user sign-up, login, and privacy rules in Bubble to secure data access. Key questions: What roles (e.g., admin, sales rep) need different permissions? Deliverable: Authentication setup and privacy rules tested for basic security.
6. Integrate Additional Features: Add plugins or APIs for email integration, analytics, or third-party services like Stripe for payments if relevant to CRM. Key questions: What tools enhance the app? Deliverable: Tested integrations with documentation.
7. Test the App Thoroughly: Conduct unit tests, user acceptance testing, and debug issues using Bubble's debugger and preview mode. Key questions: Does it work on mobile? Any performance bottlenecks? Deliverable: A bug report and fixed issues log.
8. Prepare for Launch: Set up a custom domain, check SEO settings such as meta tags and page titles, and configure live settings in Bubble. Key questions: What Bubble pricing plan supports the required features? How to handle onboarding of initial users? Deliverable: Launch plan including marketing and monitoring tools.
9. Launch and Monitor: Deploy the app live, notify users, and monitor usage using Bubble's built-in analytics and optionally third-party tools like Google Analytics. Key questions: What metrics to track (e.g., user sign-ups, retention)? Deliverable: Post-launch report with initial feedback and performance insights.
Is Bubble secure for CRM?
Bubble provides several security features suitable for building CRM applications, including data encryption in transit (TLS), built-in user authentication, and customizable privacy rules for database access. Bubble is GDPR compliant when used in accordance with EU data regulations. However, it is not HIPAA-compliant by default. Achieving HIPAA compliance with Bubble requires additional external measures and configurations. Agencies commonly implement best practices such as role-based access controls and regular security audits to enhance protection of sensitive customer data. When properly configured, Bubble can be a reliable platform for CRM use cases.
Can I scale my CRM app built on Bubble?
Yes, Bubble supports scalable CRM apps through its cloud-based infrastructure. With paid plans, users can increase server capacity and application performance to handle more users and data. As your CRM grows, you can optimize app performance through efficient database structuring and workflow optimization. Bubble also allows integration with external services and APIs. While many CRMs built on Bubble successfully support thousands of users, extremely large-scale applications may eventually require transitioning to more customizable solutions involving traditional codebases.
What happens after launching my CRM on Bubble?
After launch, your development agency can offer ongoing support, maintenance, and feature updates to ensure your CRM continues to meet your business needs. You'll have access to Bubble’s editor and dashboard to make direct changes or monitor performance. Agencies may help you plan future expansions, including new features or third-party integrations, enabling your CRM system to evolve alongside your business strategy.
Will I own the IP for my CRM built on Bubble?
Yes, you will own the intellectual property of your CRM application, including all custom workflows, design elements, and data models created by the agency. According to Bubble’s terms of service, you retain ownership of your content and data. Additionally, agencies usually sign NDAs and IP transfer agreements to ensure clear legal ownership by the client. You can also export your application’s data at any time. However, exporting the full app structure (e.g., front-end and workflows) for independent hosting outside of Bubble is not currently supported.
How long does it take to build a CRM on Bubble with an agency?
Building a CRM on Bubble typically takes 4–12 weeks, depending on the complexity of features, integrations, and user interfaces. The no-code platform allows faster iteration compared to traditional software development. Agencies generally follow a phased process: discovery, prototyping, development, testing, and deployment—with client feedback integrated throughout. This can result in a quicker time-to-market than building from scratch using code.
What integrations are possible for a Bubble-based CRM?
Bubble supports numerous third-party integrations through built-in plugins, native API connectors, and custom API workflows. Common integrations include Google Workspace, Stripe, Zapier, and database tools like Airtable or SQL-based APIs. Agencies can configure endpoints to communicate with CRM-relevant SaaS platforms, making Bubble capable of supporting a wide range of integration needs for a connected ecosystem.
How much does a Bubble agency cost for CRM development?
The cost of CRM development with a Bubble agency typically ranges from $5,000 to $50,000 or more, based on the project’s complexity, number of features, and customization required. Ongoing maintenance costs generally fall between $500 and $2,000 per month, depending on the level of support and updates needed. These prices are often lower than traditional software development costs due to reduced development time using no-code tools. Agencies usually provide detailed quotes tailored to your business requirements.
