Today we have the pleasure of speaking with Vijay Raina, a specialist in enterprise SaaS technology and tools, as well as an expert in software design and architecture. We will be discussing GROW with SAP for scaleups, a program designed to help European businesses navigate the complexities of scaling. Vijay will share insights on the program’s inception, challenges faced, and its expanding influence across various industries.
Can you provide an overview of GROW with SAP for scaleups?GROW with SAP for scaleups is a program designed to support scaleups in focusing on their business plan or product vision, alleviating the burden of managing complex business processes. The program brings the best of SAP’s enterprise solutions to scaleups, tailored specifically to their needs. It helps scaleups at various stages of their lifecycle, providing them with the tools and support needed to grow and compete effectively.
What inspired the creation of GROW with SAP for scaleups?The inspiration for GROW with SAP for scaleups came from a meeting with a ride-hailing company in Estonia. This meeting was a culture shock for SAP, as they realized they did not speak the same language as the scaleups. Despite having the technology and knowledge to help scaleups, there was a disconnect in communication. This realization led to the development of the program, designed to bridge that gap and meet the specific needs of scaleups.
Can you explain the challenges faced by SAP when initially meeting with the ride-hailing company in Estonia?When SAP first met with the Estonian ride-hailing company, they found that their experience with large corporations did not translate well to working with scaleups. The KPIs and processes that SAP was accustomed to were too complex and not relevant to the needs of scaleups. This challenge highlighted the need for a tailored approach that could address the unique requirements of smaller, rapidly growing companies.
How did this meeting with the Estonian ride-hailing company influence the development of GROW with SAP for scaleups?The meeting was a pivotal moment for SAP, as it made them aware of the disconnect between their existing solutions and the needs of scaleups. This led to the creation of GROW with SAP for scaleups, a program specifically designed to cater to the language and requirements of scaleups. It brought forth the idea of leveraging SAP’s extensive enterprise knowledge in a way that could support and accelerate the growth of these smaller companies.
What specific needs of scaleups does the GROW with SAP for scaleups program address?The program addresses several key needs of scaleups, including streamlined business processes, financial and administrative ERP, project management, and reporting. It helps scaleups focus on growth, competitive advantage, and product marketing. The program also provides best practices and prepackaged processes to cover basic functions such as finance, HR, and procurement.
How does GROW with SAP for scaleups help scaleups focus on their business plan or product vision without worrying about business processes?The program offers pre-configured solutions that are ready to implement, reducing the time and effort required to manage complex business processes. By providing a tailored approach, scaleups can concentrate on their core business objectives and product development, knowing that their essential business functions are well-handled by SAP’s reliable solutions.
What are the two pillars of the GROW with SAP for scaleups program?The two pillars of the program are Run ON SAP and Hypergrowth Hub. Run ON SAP focuses on providing tailored tech solutions for scaleups, helping them manage the basics like finance, HR, and procurement. Hypergrowth Hub leverages SAP’s extensive ecosystem to provide customer matchmaking and integration opportunities, supporting scaleups in reaching international markets and scaling their operations.
Can you describe the Run ON SAP pillar and how it benefits scaleups?The Run ON SAP pillar is designed to offer pre-configured tech solutions that are suited for scaleups at various stages of their growth. It includes an MVP approach that can go live within four weeks, covering essential business processes like accounting, finance, procurement, and reporting. This setup allows scaleups to quickly implement effective solutions, enabling them to focus on scaling their business.
What does the Hypergrowth Hub pillar offer to scaleups?The Hypergrowth Hub pillar offers scaleups access to SAP’s vast ecosystem. This includes opportunities for customer matchmaking and product integration, which can open new markets and partnerships. It capitalizes on SAP’s position as a tech leader in Europe, providing scaleups with the support and exposure needed to thrive in a competitive landscape.
How has GROW with SAP for scaleups expanded since its inception?Initially aimed at scaleups in France, the UK, and the Netherlands, the program has seen significant growth and expanded globally. In just five years, it has helped over 560 companies across various industries, including SaaS, fintech, AI, healthcare, and foodtech. The program’s success has enabled it to reach scaleups in Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and the US.
What types of industries have been helped by GROW with SAP for scaleups so far?GROW with SAP for scaleups has supported businesses across a diverse range of industries. This includes SaaS, fintech, AI, gigafactories, electric charging companies, payments, healthcare, and foodtech. The program’s adaptability and tailored approach have made it a valuable resource for scaleups in these varied sectors.
How does SAP demystify the belief that its services are expensive for startups and scaleups?SAP addresses this belief through its GROW with SAP for scaleups program by offering tailored, cost-effective solutions that are accessible to scaleups. The program’s modular approach allows scaleups to only pay for the services they need, which helps manage costs effectively. SAP’s commitment to supporting scaleups demystifies the notion that its services are prohibitively expensive.
Can you provide more details about the MVP approach designed by SAP and its time to go live?The MVP approach within the GROW with SAP for scaleups program is designed to get scaleups up and running within four weeks. It includes best practices, processes, and sub-processes necessary for essential business functions. This rapid deployment allows scaleups to quickly integrate SAP solutions and begin focusing on growth without the typical long implementation timelines.
How does SAP leverage its ecosystem for customer matchmaking or integration for scaleups?SAP uses its extensive ecosystem to create opportunities for customer matchmaking and product integration. By understanding the needs and goals of scaleups, SAP connects them with relevant partners and markets, facilitating collaborations that drive growth and expansion. This strategic leveraging of its network helps scaleups find the best pathways to scale and succeed.
Why does GROW with SAP for scaleups avoid providing mentoring, accelerator, or incubator services?GROW with SAP for scaleups focuses on leveraging SAP’s core strengths in enterprise solutions rather than mentoring or incubation. The program aims to provide tangible, scalable tech solutions that address immediate business needs, relying on SAP’s extensive knowledge and resources. Mentoring and incubation are left to other entities that specialize in those services.
How is SAP positioning itself as an ecosystem player for European scaleups with this program?SAP positions itself as a key ecosystem player by offering comprehensive support that addresses the unique needs of European scaleups. By integrating SAP solutions and fostering connections within its network, the program enables scaleups to benefit from SAP’s established presence and resources. This strategic positioning underscores SAP’s commitment to helping European scaleups thrive and achieve global reach.
What role does SAP play in supporting fintech companies across different regions?SAP has a significant role in supporting fintech companies, particularly in regions like the UK, Netherlands, and Luxembourg. The program’s tailored solutions help fintechs manage critical business functions, streamline processes, and scale operations. SAP’s network also provides fintech startups with opportunities to collaborate, integrate, and access new markets, driving their growth and success.
Do you have any advice for our readers?My advice for readers, especially those involved with startups and scaleups, is to leverage the power of ecosystems. Collaborate with established players, utilize their resources, and focus on your core strengths. Programs like GROW with SAP for scaleups exist to alleviate the burden of business processes, enabling you to concentrate on innovation and scaling your vision. Don’t hesitate to seek out partnerships that can accelerate your growth and provide the support you need to succeed.
