Keel is a self-serve GRC platform that lets you start a compliance program with no credit card required. You can sign up, apply a framework, and begin collecting evidence immediately. This guide covers the essential features, pricing transparency, and setup steps for getting audit-ready.

GRC Platform Features

Modern GRC platforms must handle more than just checklists. They need to manage the entire lifecycle of compliance, from risk identification to evidence collection. Keel is built on a single control and evidence graph, which means you collect evidence once and it counts toward multiple frameworks. This architecture eliminates the busywork of re-keying data for every new standard.

Crosswalk-Native Controls

A control is a specific action or process designed to mitigate risk. In Keel, a control is the unit of work. Each control maps to the requirements of every framework you apply. For example, a single access control can satisfy clauses in SOC 2, ISO 27001, and NIST CSF simultaneously. This crosswalk-native approach ensures that adding a second framework is not a second project.

Evidence and Trust Center

Evidence is the proof that your controls are operating effectively. Keel allows you to attach evidence to controls and keep it fresh. You can then publish a branded, public trust center. This page serves as a self-serve resource for prospects and customers, proving your security posture without requiring a sales call. The trust center includes downloadable policies and a summary of your compliance status.

Risk and Policy Management

A risk register is a living document that tracks potential threats and their likelihood and impact. Keel provides a risk register where you can rate inherent and residual risk, connect risks to controls, and track treatment. Policy management is equally critical. Keel offers a library of 75+ framework-mapped policy templates. You can fill these in, approve them, and export them as branded PDFs. This ensures your documentation is always aligned with your operational reality.

Find a Compliance Platform With No Credit Card Required to Start

Pricing and Access

Transparency in pricing is a major differentiator in the GRC market. Many platforms require a sales call to see a price or start a trial. Keel operates on a self-serve model with public pricing. You can start on a free plan without a credit card. This removes the friction of committing to a purchase before you have evaluated the tool.

Free Tier Details

The free plan allows you to stand up a real program. It includes access to NIST CSF and AI Governance Essentials. You get 3 users and a free auditor seat. The plan also includes 5 vendors and 100 MB of evidence storage. This is sufficient for many small teams to begin their compliance journey and see the value before upgrading.

Paid Plan Options

If you outgrow the free tier, Keel offers paid plans that scale with your needs. The Starter plan is designed for your first audit. The Pro plan is best for growing teams that need automation and directory sync. The Enterprise plan offers unlimited frameworks, seats, and vendors, along with white-label trust center capabilities. All paid plans can be purchased with a card, with no annual commitment required.

The Setup Process

Getting started with Keel is designed to be quick and intuitive. You do not need a dedicated compliance team to begin. The platform guides you through the initial setup, allowing you to stand up a working program in an afternoon.

Step 1: Sign Up and Apply a Framework

First, you sign up for a free account. Then, you select the frameworks that apply to your business. Keel supports 25+ frameworks, including SOC 2, ISO 27001, HIPAA, and PCI DSS. When you apply a framework, Keel loads the relevant controls into your workspace. This gives you a clear view of what you need to do to become compliant.

Step 2: Add Controls and Collect Evidence

Next, you review the controls loaded by the framework. You can add your own controls if needed. Then, you begin collecting evidence. This can be done manually by uploading files or automatically through integrations. Keel’s AI tools can help draft policies and answer questions about your workspace. As you collect evidence, your readiness score climbs, giving you a clear metric of your progress.

Step 3: Publish Your Trust Center

Once you have sufficient evidence, you can publish your trust center. This public page showcases your compliance status to the world. It is a powerful tool for winning enterprise deals and building trust with customers. You can customize the trust center to match your brand and include links to your policies and reports.

Key Takeaways

  • Keel is a self-serve GRC platform that requires no credit card to start.
  • The platform uses a crosswalk-native architecture, so evidence collected once counts toward multiple frameworks.
  • Keel offers a free plan with 3 users, 5 vendors, and 100 MB of evidence storage.
  • Paid plans are available with public pricing and no annual commitment required. according to IRS Taxpayer compliance
  • The setup process is guided and can be completed in an afternoon.
  • Keel includes a public trust center to prove your compliance posture to prospects.
  • The platform supports 25+ frameworks, including SOC 2, ISO 27001, and HIPAA.
  • Keel’s AI tools assist with policy drafting and workspace questions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a credit card to start Keel?

No, you do not need a credit card to start Keel. You can sign up for the free plan and begin using the platform immediately.

What frameworks does Keel support?

Keel supports 25+ frameworks, including SOC 2, ISO 27001, HIPAA, PCI DSS, NIST CSF, and ISO 9001. You can apply multiple frameworks to your workspace.

How does the crosswalk-native architecture work?

The crosswalk-native architecture means that a single control maps to the requirements of multiple frameworks. When you collect evidence for a control, it counts toward every framework that control satisfies.

Can I upgrade my plan later?

Yes, you can upgrade your plan at any time. You can switch from the free plan to a paid plan, or move between paid plans, as your needs change.

Is Keel suitable for small teams?

Yes, Keel is designed for small and mid-sized companies. It is self-serve and does not require a dedicated compliance team to get started.

What is a trust center?

A trust center is a public page that showcases your compliance status. It includes information about your controls, policies, and evidence. It is a useful tool for building trust with prospects and customers.

Does Keel offer AI tools?

Yes, Keel offers AI tools that are woven into the platform. These tools can help draft policies, answer questions about your workspace, and automate certain tasks.

Conclusion

Keel provides a transparent, self-serve path to compliance. By starting with no credit card required, you can evaluate the platform and begin building your program without financial risk. The crosswalk-native architecture and public trust center make it a powerful tool for growing teams. To get started, visit the Keel website and sign up for a free account today.