A Free ManyChat Alternative for Instagram Creators? We Built It Open Source + FREE!

Description and use

EngagePilot is an open‑source platform that automates comment‑to‑DM workflows on Instagram, enabling creators and agencies to set up simple, cost‑effective automation without relying on paid SaaS.

Problem

Creators need a simple way to turn comment keywords into private DMs without paying for a full SaaS platform.

Outcome

EngagePilot enables creators and agencies to automate comment‑to‑DM workflows without relying on paid SaaS, offering full control over code and deployment.

Workflow

• Create a campaign and set a keyword (e.g., "LINK").
• A user comments the keyword on a post or Reel.
• Meta sends the comment event to EngagePilot via webhook.
• EngagePilot matches the keyword and sends a private DM with the configured message and link.
• Optionally, EngagePilot posts a public reply under the comment.
• The process repeats for each matching comment.
• The system handles authentication, rate limits, background tasks, and error handling to remain reliable.

Evidence

We decided to build a free open-source alternative!

Source

You create a campaign and choose a keyword, for example LINK. Someone comments that keyword on an Instagram post or Reel, Meta sends the event to EngagePilot, and the person gets a private reply with your message and link.

Source

The first prototype was relatively straightforward, but handling real‑world automation introduced more complexity.

Source