# Connect Gemini CLI to HighLevel (GHL): Setup, Business Dashboard & App Integrations

> Gemini CLI reads MCP servers from ~/.gemini/settings.json and expands environment variables in headers, so it connects to HighLevel directly with your token kept in the shell.

Last verified: October 25, 2026 · Source page: https://ghlfounders.com/agents/gemini-cli

## Key facts
| Fact | Gemini CLI |
| --- | --- |
| Maker | Google |
| Type | Coding & builder agents |
| Launched | Generally available |
| Access & price | Google account / Gemini API |
| Where it lives | Terminal |
| Route to HighLevel | HighLevel MCP |
| Always on | No |
| Approval controls | Confirms tool calls |
| Scheduling | No |
| Runs on | Your computer |
| Official GHL MCP tools | Yes (direct) |

## How Gemini CLI connects to HighLevel
- **HighLevel MCP:** Connects straight to HighLevel's official MCP server with a Private Integration Token kept on your machine or server.

## Set up Gemini CLI with HighLevel in 3 steps
1. Install Gemini CLI and export GHL_PIT and GHL_LOCATION_ID.
2. Add the server to ~/.gemini/settings.json.
3. Run gemini and type /mcp to list tools.

~/.gemini/settings.json:

```
// ~/.gemini/settings.json
{
  "mcpServers": {
    "highlevel": {
      "httpUrl": "https://services.leadconnectorhq.com/mcp/",
      "headers": { "Authorization": "Bearer $GHL_PIT", "locationId": "$GHL_LOCATION_ID" }
    }
  }
}
```

## Best HighLevel jobs for Gemini CLI
- Quick CRM queries from the terminal
- Scripted audits

## Use Gemini CLI as your HighLevel business dashboard
Script quick daily reports from HighLevel and Google data in the terminal.

## Connect HighLevel to your other business apps with Gemini CLI
Business app reach: Any MCP server or API

| App category | How Gemini CLI reaches it |
| --- | --- |
| Any MCP server | Local or remote servers in settings.json |
| Google APIs | Pairs naturally with Workspace data |


## Permissions to grant
- contacts.readonly
- opportunities.readonly

## Limits and watch-outs
- Not always-on.

## FAQ
### Can Gemini CLI use local MCP servers?
Yes, both local and remote servers, unlike the Gemini web app.

### Can Gemini CLI connect HighLevel to Gmail, Slack, QuickBooks and my other apps?
Yes, within its reach: Any MCP server or API. Any MCP server: Local or remote servers in settings.json. Google APIs: Pairs naturally with Workspace data.

### Can Gemini CLI power a HighLevel business dashboard?
Script quick daily reports from HighLevel and Google data in the terminal.

## Sources
- [Gemini CLI custom apps (Skills Playground)](https://skillsplayground.com/integrations/gemini/)
- [How to Setup and Use the HighLevel MCP Server](https://help.gohighlevel.com/support/solutions/articles/155000005741)
- [HighLevel MCP developer docs](https://marketplace.gohighlevel.com/docs/other/mcp)