In one of his interviews with federal TV channels, Alexey Olin, the founder of iVenturer, mentioned that among other projects, his company is currently developing an innovative platform for procurement process automation. This project aims to transform traditional supply methods through the implementation of artificial intelligence and blockchain technologies.
Key features of the project:
- AI analytics – the system predicts optimal procurement conditions
- Decentralized verification – blockchain for supplier vetting
- Integration with government systems – compliance with 44-FZ and 223-FZ regulations
- Multi-platform support – web interface and mobile application
The Broken State of SMB Procurement
Small and medium businesses (SMBs) today face an unfair paradox: while procurement makes up 30-70% of their expenses, most lack the resources to optimize it. Unlike corporations with dedicated procurement teams, SMBs rely on:
- Manual processes (Excel, emails, phone calls)
- Limited supplier networks (often overpaying local vendors)
- Zero tender transparency (no competitive bidding)
- No access to financing (missing early payment discounts)
Our research shows 68% of SMBs admit they’re likely overpaying for supplies – but can’t fix it alone.
We’re building SnabHub – the first all-in-one platform that:
Automates Tendering
- AI-powered RFQ generation
- Real-time supplier matching
- Transparent bid comparisons
Replaces In-House Procurement
- Managed buying for non-strategic categories (office supplies, logistics)
- Pre-vetted supplier network with KYC/AML checks
Unlocks Financial Tools
- Embedded factoring/payment deferrals
- Dynamic discounting via partner banks
*Example: A mid-sized restaurant chain could cut food costs by 15% just by seeing competing bids from regional farmers.
Why This Market Is Ripe for Disruption
Trend 1:
The “Great Procurement Awakening”
Post-pandemic, 82% of SMBs now prioritize supply chain resilience (McKinsey 2023). Yet most lack tools to achieve it.
Trend 2:
Banking-as-a-Service Boom
Open banking APIs now let us embed financing directly into procurement workflows – a game-changer for cash-strapped SMBs.
Trend 3:
AI Finally Works for Small Biz
LLMs can now draft tender docs and analyze contracts at 1/10th the cost of human teams.
The Road Ahead: Our beta launched in 2025 with:
- 200+ pre-verified suppliers
- Integrations with major ERPs (1C, SAP Business One)
- Pilot partnerships with 3 regional banks
For SMBs:
This isn’t just about saving money – it’s about competing on equal footing with corporations for the first time.
For investors:
We’re attacking a $11B underserved market where legacy players (like Coupa) ignore SMB needs.
Selected case studies
1. Restaurant Chain (12 locations)
Problem:
- Relied on 3 local food suppliers with 20% price fluctuations.
- No staff to run tenders for better deals.
Solution:
- Used platform to automate weekly produce tenders.
- Connected to regional farmers via pre-vetted network.
Results:
- 14% cost reduction on dairy/vegetables.
- 2-hour/week time saved for manager.
- Early payment discounts (5% net savings).
Quote:
“We now get 5 competing bids every Monday – something we never had time to do manually.”
2. Manufacturing SME (50 employees)
Problem:
- Overpaying for metal parts due to single-supplier dependency.
- Missed bulk purchase opportunities.
Solution:
- Platform identified 8 alternative suppliers.
- Structured quarterly bulk-buying tenders.
Results:
- 22% savings on raw materials.
- Faster delivery times (supplier competition).
Quote:
“The escrow payment feature eliminated our prepayment risks.”
