Need a guidance to publish a Power Query SDK in the Power BI “Get Data".

[Ashendra]

Hi everyone,

I have developed a custom Zoho CRM data connector for Power BI using the Power Query SDK, and my primary goal is to publish this connector so that it becomes available under the "Get Data" experience for all users.

I would appreciate guidance from the community on the correct approach and requirements to achieve this.

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What I Have Built

I created a custom connector that integrates Zoho CRM with Power BI using OAuth 2.0 authentication.

Authentication Setup

• Implemented OAuth 2.0 using:
  • Client ID
  • Client Secret
• Users are redirected to Zoho’s authorization page
• After login, an authorization code is generated
• The code is exchanged for:
  • Access Token
  • Refresh Token
• Tokens are used to securely fetch data from Zoho APIs

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Data Integration

• Using Zoho CRM REST APIs (/crm/v8/...)
• Fetching modules dynamically via /settings/modules
• Filtering only API-supported modules
• Converting API responses into structured tables for Power BI

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Connector Capabilities

• Dynamic module selection
• Handling pagination for large datasets
• Automatic token refresh using refresh tokens
• Basic error handling for API and authentication failures

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My Goal

I want to make this connector available to all users directly inside Power BI under:

Home → Get Data → All / Azure / Online Services / Other

So that users can connect to Zoho CRM without manually installing or configuring the connector.

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Questions / Guidance Needed

1. Certification & Publishing
   • What is the official process to get a custom connector certified and listed in Power BI?
   • Where do I submit the connector for review?
2. Requirements
   • What are the mandatory requirements for:
     • Security (especially handling Client Secret)
     • OAuth implementation
     • Data privacy compliance
3. Connector Packaging
   • Are there specific guidelines for packaging .mez files for submission?
4. Limitations
   • Are there any restrictions on third-party APIs like Zoho CRM for certification?
5. Timeline & Approval
   • How long does the certification process typically take?

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What I’m Looking For

• Official documentation or checklist for publishing connectors
• Best practices followed by certified connectors
• Any real-world experience or tips from developers who have published connectors

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My intention is to make Zoho CRM integration seamless for Power BI users without requiring manual setup, and I want to ensure I follow the correct and recommended path for publishing.

Any help or direction would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you!

[v-prasare]

Hi @Ashendra,

We would like to confirm if our community members answer resolves your query or if you need further help. If you still have any questions or need more support, please feel free to let us know. We are happy to help you.

Thank you for your patience and look forward to hearing from you.
Best Regards,
Prashanth Are
MS Fabric community support

[v-prasare]

Hi @Ashendra,

We would like to confirm if our community members answer resolves your query or if you need further help. If you still have any questions or need more support, please feel free to let us know. We are happy to help you.

@lbendlin ,Thanks for your prompt response

Thank you for your patience and look forward to hearing from you.
Best Regards,
Prashanth Are
MS Fabric community support

[lbendlin · Accepted solution]

This is all explained in excruciating detail here Develop a connector using the Power Query SDK - Power Query | Microsoft Learn

Or you can use one of the many paid connectors like Zoho CRM Connector for Power BI  (no endorsement)