How to Create a WhatsApp Template in Sparkforge

By Sparkforge Support Team ·Last reviewed May 3, 2026

WhatsApp templates are required to send outbound messages. Build them in Sparkforge under Settings > WhatsApp > Templates, fill in variables and CTAs, and submit to Meta for approval.

WhatsApp requires pre-approved templates for outbound messages. Sparkforge handles the build and submits to Meta for review.

Before You Start

  • The sub-account needs an active WhatsApp subscription.
  • Meta onboarding must be complete with at least one approved number connected.
  • Match the template content to the category you select. Mismatches cause rejection or category override.

Create a Template

  1. Go to Settings > WhatsApp > Templates.
  2. Click + Create Template.
  3. Fill in the fields:
    • Template Name: lowercase only, no spaces.
    • Category: Marketing, Utility, or Authentication.
    • Language: the language Meta will use for review.
    • Header (optional): static text or one variable like {{1}}.
  4. Add the Body. Insert variables with Add Variable and provide sample values for each (Meta needs them for review).
  5. Add a Footer if desired (static text only).
  6. Click Create. Sparkforge submits to Meta automatically.

Categories

  • Marketing: promos, offers, announcements.
  • Utility: order updates, appointment reminders, transactional notices.
  • Authentication: OTPs and login codes.

Track Approval Status

StatusWhat it means
PendingSubmitted to Meta. Awaiting review.
ApprovedReady to send.
RejectedEdit and resubmit. Click the expand icon next to the template, hit Edit Template, fix the issue, and click Create.

Add CTA Buttons (Interactive Templates)

Inside the template builder, click Add Button to insert any of these:

  • Quick Reply: predefined response options.
  • Visit Website: static URL.
  • Personalized Website Link: one variable at the URL end (per-contact link).
  • Call Phone Number: one-tap dial.
  • Copy Offer Code: tap-to-copy promo code.
  • Marketing Opt-Out: required for marketing templates.

Add a Trigger Link

Build the link under Marketing > Trigger Links > Add Link, then insert it into the template body via Add Variable. Trigger links track clicks and can fire workflow actions.

Clone a Template

  1. In Settings > WhatsApp > Templates, click the three-dot menu next to the template.
  2. Select Clone Template.
  3. Rename and edit. Variables, buttons, and formatting carry over.
  4. Click Save.

Media Templates

Attach images, video, documents, or location to a template. Useful for product showcases, invoices, or shipping confirmations.

Why the Create Button Is Grayed Out

  • Template not approved. Check status under Settings > WhatsApp > Templates. Only approved templates allow creation.
  • No connected number. Confirm under Settings > WhatsApp that a number shows as Connected and Approved.
  • Missing variable values. Every variable needs a sample value before the button activates.
  • Unsupported format. Stick to text, supported media, quick replies, or approved CTA buttons.

After Approval

Approved templates can send through Conversations (manual), Workflows, Review Requests, and Marketing Campaigns.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I add custom variables to the body or header?
Click Add Variable, pick a system field like contact name or phone, then enter a sample value. Meta uses the sample during review.
How do I edit a rejected template?
Open Settings > WhatsApp > Templates, click the expand icon next to the rejected template, click Edit Template, fix the content, and click Create to resubmit.
Which categories does Meta offer?
Marketing for promos, Utility for transactional updates, and Authentication for OTPs. Matching content to category prevents rejection.
Can I include media in a WhatsApp template?
Yes. Media templates support images, video, documents, and location.
What CTA buttons are available?
Quick Reply, Visit Website, Personalized Website Link, Call Phone Number, Copy Offer Code, and Marketing Opt-Out.

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