NextGen Procurement Programme
An industry-led initiative to build a smart, application-driven digital procurement ecosystem enabling MSMEs to access standardised metal cutting tool
The NextGen Procurement Platform is an industry-driven initiative designed to simplify and modernize how MSME manufacturers discover, evaluate, and procure standardized metal cutting tools.
MSME job shops often operate in high-mix, fast-turn environments where procurement speed, SKU accuracy, and reliable availability directly impact uptime and profitability. However, current systems rely heavily on fragmented sourcing channels, manual coordination, informal validation, and limited price visibility.
MSME job shops often operate in high-mix, fast-turn environments where procurement speed, SKU accuracy, and reliable availability directly impact uptime and profitability. However, current systems rely heavily on fragmented sourcing channels, manual coordination, informal validation, and limited price visibility.
Last date to apply: 30 April 2026
This programme invites growth-stage startups to co-develop a smart, application-led procurement platform that enables:
- Fit-for-purpose tool discovery
- Clear compatibility guidance
- Real-time pricing and inventory visibility
- Seamless repeat ordering
- ERP, distributor, and logistics integration
The objective is to build a scalable, channel-aligned model that expands MSME access while preserving existing distributor ecosystems.
Application-Led Industrial Procurement Marketplace
Startups are invited to develop a digital marketplace platform purpose-built for MSME manufacturing environments purchasing metal cutting tools.
The solution must address the following dimensions:
- Enables guided tool discovery and compatibility validation
- Provides transparent pricing and real-time inventory visibility
- Supports seamless repeat purchasing and ERP integration
- Aligns with existing distributor and fulfillment ecosystems
The platform must balance automation with structured technical guidance and operate within a channel-aligned commercial model.
FAQs
Who should apply to this programme?
Growth-stage startups building B2B procurement platforms, industrial SaaS, ERP-integrated systems, supply chain intelligence tools, or application-led discovery engines tailored for manufacturing use cases.
Is this limited to marketplace startups?
No. Solutions may include intelligent configuration engines, procurement automation tools, system integration platforms, or digital infrastructure layers that enable structured industrial buying.
What stage should startups be in?
Startups should have a validated product, early enterprise pilots, or demonstrated capability in industrial or B2B environments.
What outcomes are expected from selected startups?
- Deployment of a structured procurement system
- Demonstrated reduction in transaction friction
- Improved SKU discovery accuracy
- Measurable improvement in repeat order cycles
- Scalable adoption across MSME clusters
For more information, please write to:
Ms Priyanka Mukhija
priyanka.mukhija@cii.in
priyanka.mukhija@cii.in
