n8n
A visual automation builder — connect apps and AI into workflows that run themselves, with no code.
What it does
n8n is a workflow-automation platform that connects hundreds of apps and AI models into automated pipelines using a visual, node-based editor. You can self-host it for free or use their paid cloud. It's included in Lenny's bundle and is a favorite for building AI agents and back-office automations. It rewards a bit of tinkering with huge time savings.
Best for, in an NCW context
- Educators: auto-file incoming permission slips, or summarize and route parent emails to the right staff.
- SMB owners: connect your form, spreadsheet, and email so new leads are logged and followed up automatically.
- Community leaders: automate volunteer reminders and post-event thank-you messages.
How to install & use it
The web link always works — it’s the universal way in. Native apps are optional.
Get set up
The AiGovOps Foundation 90-second guide — the tool, what’s cool, and the rules.
Web
Windows
iOS / Android
Pricing tiers
| Tier | What you get | Price | Promo |
|---|---|---|---|
| Self-hosted (Community) | Free, open-source, run it on your own machine/server | $0 | — |
| Cloud Starter | Hosted, no setup, monthly workflow executions | from ~$20-24/mo | AIGOVOPS |
| Lenny's bundle | Bundled cloud credits with other builder tools | See bundle | AIGOVOPS |
🎟️Try promo code AIGOVOPS at checkout
Many of the tools we showcase will recognize the code for additional credits or trial extensions when entered in the promo code box. Always test the code — some tools rotate their promotional offers, but ours work most consistently for AI Expo attendees.
Free, web-only alternative
The self-hosted n8n Community edition is free forever (you just run it yourself). For a fully no-install automation tool, Zapier and Make both offer free browser-based tiers for a handful of automations.
The Data Cost of “Free”
Remember: when a tool is free, you’re often paying with your data.
Free AI tools generally train on your prompts, your uploads, your edits, and your usage patterns. That’s the trade. Before pasting in customer info, student records, IEP drafts, or anything else you wouldn’t email to a stranger — flip to a paid tier (which usually offers a “do not train on my data” toggle), use the tool’s enterprise tenant if your org has one, or use a free tier with non-sensitive content only.
The AiGovOps 3 Rules apply here
- Never paste private data into a free tool
- Two-eyes rule on outputs
- Keep the receipts
Get every installer
The Lab Tools download bundle
Mac, Windows, iOS & Android download links for all 16 tools, grouped by platform — one page.