Running your business on open-source software not only lowers costs but also provides control, transparency, and GDPR compliance. Here’s a handpicked list of powerful open-source tools developed or hosted in Europe.
🧩 1. Nextcloud
- Type: File sharing, calendar, and team collaboration
- Based in: Germany
- Website: nextcloud.com
- Use Cases: Self-hosted Dropbox/Google Drive alternative, business collaboration
🧩 2. ONLYOFFICE
- Type: Office suite (Docs, Sheets, Presentations)
- Based in: Latvia
- Website: onlyoffice.com
- Use Cases: Team document editing and real-time collaboration
🧩 3. Dolibarr ERP/CRM
- Type: ERP, CRM, invoicing, HR
- Based in: France
- Website: dolibarr.org
- Use Cases: SMEs managing sales, inventory, HR, and billing
🧩 4. ERPNext (EU-hosted deployments)
- Type: Full-featured ERP
- Based in: India (EU providers available)
- Website: erpnext.com
- Use Cases: Finance, accounting, HR, CRM, manufacturing
🧩 5. CryptPad
- Type: Collaboration suite (docs, polls, kanban)
- Based in: France
- Website: cryptpad.org
- Use Cases: Privacy-respecting Google Docs alternative
🧩 6. Kimai
- Type: Time tracking
- Based in: Germany
- Website: kimai.org
- Use Cases: Freelancers and teams managing billable hours
🌍 Benefits of EU Open-Source Tools
- Transparent code and strong community support
- On-premise or EU cloud deployment
- Avoid vendor lock-in and surveillance capitalism