Crown's €2 Million Funding: A New Dawn for Procurement

February 5, 2025, 9:32 am
Crown
Total raised: $2.07M
In the bustling world of procurement, change is often slow. Traditional methods cling to the past like barnacles on a ship. But Crown, a Paris-based startup, is here to shake things up. With a fresh infusion of €2 million in funding, Crown aims to redefine how businesses negotiate.

Founded in 2024 by Mykyta Voytenko, Crown is not just another tech company. It’s a beacon of innovation in procurement. The startup’s electronic auction (eAuction) platform is designed to streamline negotiations, making them faster and more transparent. Think of it as a digital marketplace where buyers and suppliers can meet, negotiate, and seal deals in a fraction of the time it takes using outdated methods.

The funding round was led by Heartfelt, with support from several venture capital firms and notable business angels. This diverse backing signals confidence in Crown’s vision. The investors see potential where others might see risk. They recognize that procurement is a massive lever for businesses, often accounting for up to 60% of a company’s turnover.

Crown’s approach is simple yet revolutionary. For nearly three decades, eAuctions have been synonymous with price-cutting tactics that often lack transparency. Crown flips this narrative. It positions auctions as tools for fairness and mutual success. This shift in perspective is crucial. It transforms negotiations from a battleground into a collaborative effort.

Mykyta Voytenko is no stranger to the procurement landscape. With over 15 years of experience, he has conducted more than 300 eAuctions for top-tier fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) companies. His expertise is the backbone of Crown. He understands the intricacies of procurement like a seasoned sailor knows the tides.

The need for modern solutions in procurement is palpable. Many professionals have expressed frustration with outdated tools like Excel and Outlook. Crown addresses this gap head-on. Its platform allows negotiations to be finalized in as little as 20 minutes. This efficiency is not just a luxury; it’s a necessity in today’s fast-paced business environment.

Crown’s vision extends beyond eAuctions. The company plans to develop a comprehensive AI-powered suite for procurement. This suite aims to enhance efficiency, transparency, and results in negotiations. Imagine a world where procurement teams are not just cost centers but strategic advantages. That’s the future Crown is building.

The startup’s rapid growth is impressive. In less than a year since its inception, Crown has outpaced traditional auction systems. This momentum is a testament to the demand for innovative solutions in procurement. Businesses are hungry for change, and Crown is serving it up on a silver platter.

The support from investors like Heartfelt and Kima Ventures underscores the importance of this shift. They see Crown as a catalyst for change in the procurement industry. Their backing is not just financial; it’s a vote of confidence in a new way of thinking about negotiations.

Crown’s approach to eAuctions is not just about technology. It’s about ethics and fairness. By prioritizing these values, Crown aims to create win-win outcomes for both buyers and suppliers. This ethical framework is essential in a world where transparency is often lacking.

As Crown continues to grow, it will face challenges. The procurement landscape is competitive, and established players will not relinquish their hold easily. However, with a strong foundation and a clear vision, Crown is poised to make waves.

The startup’s journey is just beginning. With €2 million in funding, Crown has the resources to expand its platform and reach more businesses. The potential for growth is enormous. As more companies recognize the value of efficient and ethical procurement, Crown will be ready to lead the charge.

In conclusion, Crown is more than just a startup; it’s a movement. It’s a call to arms for businesses to rethink how they negotiate. With its innovative eAuction platform and a commitment to fairness, Crown is set to transform procurement from a necessary evil into a strategic advantage. The future of procurement is bright, and Crown is at the helm, steering the industry toward a more transparent and efficient horizon.