Supply chain management (SCM) and trade finance are intrinsically linked. Trade finance provides the financial infrastructure that enables the efficient flow of goods in the supply chain. 

Traditional challenges

Traditional SCM processes have long been plagued by inefficiencies like paper-based transactions, a lack of transparency, and reliance on manual interventions. The challenges are compounded in global trade, where multiple stakeholders, regulatory differences, and risks further complicate supply chain operations. Recent disruptions such as the COVID-19 pandemic, geopolitical tensions, and natural disasters have exposed these vulnerabilities. 

Benefits of deep-tech integration 

Integrating deep-tech solutions like blockchain, quantum computing, IoT, and AI has proven essential. These technologies bring benefits such as real-time data, predictive analytics, and automated decision-making, which enhance efficiency, transparency, and trust across the supply chain and financial ecosystems.

Adopting digital solutions can also solve obstacles such as the complexity of integrating new technologies with existing systems, regulatory changes, cybersecurity, and a shortage of digital skills, to name a few.

A broad range of deep tech and Digital innovations will be considered, including, but are not restricted to:

• Internet of Things (IoT)
• Blockchain (BC), Artificial intelligence (AI), and Machine learning (ML)
• Cloud Computing ▪ Quantum Technologies and Quantum Computing
• Big Data, Predictive and Prescriptive Analytics
• Nextgen robotics and hyper automation
• Advanced photonics and materials science
• Cybersecurity solutions, including security mesh
• Autonomous things (drones, self-driving vehicles, autonomous robotics) ▪ Composable Application Architecture
• 6G, Digital Twins, Virtual reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR) and Extended Reality (XR)
• Smart operations, integration services, and mobile assets optimization
• Ecosystem engagement and collaboration applications
• ESG applications, sustainability tools, and circular supply chain solutions

Market impact

The potential market impact is significant. With global SCM projected to grow from $20.27 billion in 2024 to $24.19 billion by 2028, and with technologies like electronic Bills of Lading offering cost savings and increased trade efficiency, the opportunity is vast. Europe must seize this opportunity to build resilient, competitive, and sustainable supply chains.

Call or innovation
At D2XCEL, we seek innovative solutions that can transform SCM and trade finance, creating more interconnected, efficient, and sustainable systems. The future of supply chains lies in the adoption of deep tech to meet the demands of a rapidly changing world.

D2XCEL invites deep tech and digital ventures across Europe operating in SCM and Trade Finance to check their eligibility requirements and join our scaling programme!

Apply here and join one of our live webinars for interested companies, where you can get all the information you need!

This project has received funding from the European Union under grant agreement Nº101121100. Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Innovation Council and SMEs Executive Agency (EISMEA). Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.