Pricing for nonprofits
Matrix is a free open standard and ESS Community is a free AGPL server edition with unlimited history, calls and encryption. Paid ESS adds compliance and support.
Review for nonprofits
Encrypted chat on the open Matrix network with a free AGPL server edition.
Matrix is a free open standard and ESS Community is a free AGPL server edition with unlimited history, calls and encryption. Paid ESS adds compliance and support.
Typical nonprofit uses:
- Chat across organizations without lock-in
- Bridge WhatsApp, Signal and Slack
- Host sovereign comms for programs
Pros:
- Unlimited history on free tiers
- End-to-end encryption standard
- No vendor lock-in by design
Cons:
- Self-hosting needs admin skill
- UX trails polished rivals
- Voice needs Element Call setup
FAQ about Element + Matrix for nonprofits
Is Element free?
Yes. Element apps are free and the ESS Community server edition is free AGPL software with unlimited history and encryption.
What is Matrix?
An open standard for decentralized chat, like email for messaging. Anyone can run a server that federates.
When does paid make sense?
For MDM, antivirus, auditing, compliance and SLAs in the ESS Pro subscription.
Alternatives to Element + Matrix
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Google Chat
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