Digital Procurement World
About the Company
Digital Procurement World (DPW) is a procurement-focused conference and service provider. Established in 2019, the company connects large organizations with emerging startups to drive digital transformation in procurement. DPW offers various services, including ScoutLab, a tech scouting and scaling service that collaborates with major corporations like Johnson & Johnson, Shell, and Roche. The company's annual flagship conference in Amsterdam is known for its unique blend of attendees, including procurement professionals, startups, and investors, creating a dynamic and collaborative environment.
Idea Behind Company
The concept for DPW was born out of Gutzmann's frustration with existing procurement conferences, which were costly, lacked investor presence, and failed to attract startups. Recognizing a gap in the market, he left his job in New York, moved back to Germany, and invested his savings to create a conference that would bridge this gap. His extensive experience in delegate and sponsorship sales, events, and marketing, along with a robust network in the procurement industry, equipped him with the necessary skills to launch DPW successfully.
Creating the Company
Gutzmann initially focused on creating a unique conference experience by targeting a diverse audience and offering affordable options for startups. He chose an unconventional venue, the historic Beurs van Berlage in Amsterdam, to foster a more casual and entrepreneurial atmosphere. Gutzmann kept costs low by working from his parents' house and minimizing operating expenses. His strategy included offering low-cost tickets and startup packages, which helped attract a wide range of attendees and sponsors. This approach allowed DPW to stand out in the procurement industry.
Launching the Business
DPW was launched with minimal resources, relying heavily on Gutzmann's network and social selling techniques. The timing of the launch, coupled with the uniqueness of the conference, played a crucial role in its initial success. Gutzmann formed an advisory board of industry leaders, which added credibility to the conference. Despite challenges, such as lacking a sales team, Gutzmann successfully sold the first sponsorships by leveraging his vision and industry connections. Amsterdam was chosen as the conference location due to its global connectivity and vibrant business environment, which helped attract a diverse international audience.
Earnings
DPW has experienced rapid growth since its inception, tripling its revenue to €1.8 million by 2022. The company’s flagship conference has expanded significantly, with attendance doubling to 5,000 participants in 2022. Despite the financial setback during the pandemic, DPW has diversified its offerings and continues to grow. The company is now focused on scaling its business by exploring new markets, expanding its conference to the U.S., and launching new services like ScoutLab. Gutzmann remains committed to building a scalable business model while maintaining the company’s innovative edge in the procurement industry.
