# Prerequisites

## Connectly Account

In order to develop with us, you need a **business account** and an **API key** so that you can authenticate with the Connectly API. If you need help getting an API key, please contact your Account Manager.

## WhatsApp API prerequisites

To start using the Connectly Messaging API for WhatsApp, you will need the following:

* A verified Facebook Business Manager account
* A valid phone number with the ability to receive phone calls or SMS (contact us if you need a phone number for testing or production)
* Admin access to the Facebook Business Manager account

## WABA (WhatsApp Business Account)

You need to acquire a WABA (WhatsApp Business Account) in order to send/receive WhatsApp messages as a business account.

As a **Whatsapp BSP** (Business Service Provider), we support on-boarding to WhatsApp directly from our inbox connect to a WABA. To sign up for a WABA, make sure you have access to the following resources:

* Facebook page
* Facebook Business Manager
* A phone number where you can either receive SMS or phone calls for verification.


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