Carbon

Carbon is an open-source manufacturing platform that combines enterprise resource planning (ERP), manufacturing execution systems (MES), and quality management systems (QMS) into a single, unified system. Designed specifically for complex manufacturing environments, it serves as a system of record for vertically integrated manufacturers.

The platform is built on a modern tech stack using TypeScript, React Router, and Supabase with PostgreSQL as the underlying database. Carbon extends Supabase's client libraries to provide a strongly-typed, permissioned, real-time API that developers can use to build custom applications and integrations.

What it does

Carbon provides end-to-end traceability for materials, components, and processes across the manufacturing lifecycle. The ERP module handles production planning, inventory management, sales, and purchasing. The MES module includes a shop floor application for executing production orders and tracking work in progress. The QMS module helps manufacturers stay compliant with ISO 9001 and other quality standards through integrated quality workflows.

The platform includes built-in AI agents for automating repetitive tasks, such as a purchasing agent that can create purchase orders and request quotes from suppliers automatically. The product configurator generates bills of materials and bills of process based on configurable options and parameters.

Deployment options

Carbon offers both cloud-hosted and self-hosted deployment options. The cloud version includes automatic updates and backups with tiered pricing based on feature sets and support levels. Self-hosted deployments are available for enterprises requiring ITAR compliance or complete data sovereignty.

Limitations

• Relatively new project (founded 2024) with a smaller community compared to established ERP solutions like ERPNext or Odoo
• Custom license requires commercial license for private code modifications, limiting true open-source freedom for some use cases
• TypeScript/PostgreSQL stack may require specialized expertise for self-hosting and customization
• 31 contributors as of early 2026, indicating a smaller development team than mature open-source alternatives
• Primarily focused on discrete manufacturing; process manufacturing capabilities may be less developed