Building Connection At Work Through Extensibility

Slack, a leader in team collaboration and communication, has transformed how businesses connect and work together. A key pillar of its success is the Slack App Directory—a robust marketplace of third-party integrations and plugins that extends Slack’s core functionality and enhances the user experience.

The Slack App Directory

The Slack App Directory features over 1,500 apps and integrations that allow users to customize their Slack workspaces to fit their unique needs. From project management and communication tools to document collaboration and HR solutions, the Directory empowers teams to streamline their workflows and boost productivity, making Slack more than just a messaging app—it’s a fully customizable collaboration hub.

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Driving Value and Engagement

For Slack, the App Directory is a major value driver, increasing customer retention and loyalty by offering users a wide array of tools to enhance their workspaces. It also serves as a significant revenue generator, contributing over $100 million in 2020 through developer fees and revenue-sharing agreements. With more than 50% of Slack users having installed at least one third-party app, the Directory plays a crucial role in keeping users engaged and satisfied.

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A Dynamic Partner Network

Slack’s ecosystem extends beyond the App Directory through a vibrant partner network of developers, agencies, and other organizations. This network provides users with tailored expertise and solutions, further enhancing the value of Slack’s platform. For Slack, partners not only help drive new customers and referrals but also expand the platform’s capabilities by developing innovative integrations.

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Slack Fund and Developer Incentives

Slack has significantly boosted its investment in the ecosystem through the Slack Fund, which recently launched its third fund at $100 million—the largest to date. This fund aims to support early-stage companies developing apps and integrations for Slack, offering investments typically ranging from $100,000 to $2 million. Since its inception, the Slack Fund has invested in nearly 100 companies, with portfolio companies raising approximately $5.5 billion collectively, highlighting Slack's dedication to driving the future of work through strategic investments.

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Extensibility at the Core

Slack’s extensibility strategy is all about creating a connected ecosystem that evolves with its users. The App Directory and partner network turn Slack into a flexible, scalable platform that adapts to the diverse needs of businesses. By making it easy to integrate with thousands of tools, Slack ensures that teams can work in a way that suits them best, keeping them productive and connected.

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