> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.lance.so/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# API Introduction

> Getting started with the Lance API

## Overview

The Lance API provides programmatic access to your sales prospecting platform. Use it to:

* **Search prospects** - Find companies and people matching your ICP criteria
* **Manage lead lists** - Create, update, and populate lead lists
* **Enrich contacts** - Get phone numbers and emails for your leads
* **Integrate with CRM** - Export leads to Bullhorn and other CRMs

## Base URL

All API requests should be made to:

```
https://app.lance.so/api/v1
```

## Authentication

The Lance API uses Bearer token authentication. Include your API key in the `Authorization` header:

```bash theme={null}
curl -X GET "https://app.lance.so/api/v1/operations/credits/balance" \
  -H "Authorization: Bearer YOUR_API_KEY"
```

<Note>
  Get a paid subscription at [app.lance.so](http://app.lance.so) and create an API key under [https://app.lance.so/account/api-keys](https://app.lance.so/account/api-keys)
</Note>

## Response Format

All responses are returned in JSON format and adhere to standard REST API response codes. Error responses include an error message:

```json theme={null}
{
  "error": {
    "code": "VALIDATION_ERROR",
    "message": "Invalid parameter: email"
  }
}
```

## Quick Links

<CardGroup cols={2}>
  <Card title="Lead Lists" icon="list" href="/api-reference/entities/leadlists-list">
    Create and manage lead lists
  </Card>

  <Card title="Enrichment" icon="sparkles" href="/api-reference/operations/enrichment-person">
    Enrich contacts with phone and email
  </Card>
</CardGroup>