How this Pune-based startup is digitising industrial raw materials procurement for 10,000+ Indian manufacturers

In the world of Indian manufacturing, procurement of raw materials has remained largely stuck in the past—offline, opaque, and dependent on middlemen. For thousands of small and medium-sized businesses, the process is riddled with inefficiencies: inconsistent pricing, uncertain delivery timelines, and a lack of reliable credit options. 

Despite the country’s push toward digital transformation, industrial procurement has long lagged behind.

That’s where Source.One steps in. Founded in 2018, the Pune-based startup is building a modern procurement infrastructure for manufacturers—starting with polymers. What began as a WhatsApp-based ordering service has grown into a full-stack, tech-driven platform that now powers supply chains for more than 10,000 businesses across all 28 states of India.

By combining real-time pricing, logistics integration, and credit enablement into one digital ecosystem, Source.One is quietly but decisively reshaping how the Indian industry gets its raw materials.

A simple beginning

The idea for Source.One emerged when co-founders Arun Singhal, Shrinath Balakrishnan, and Rohit Parmar noticed how heavily small manufacturers depended on fragmented, trust-based supply channels. Orders were placed over calls or in person, pricing fluctuated without transparency, and delivery delays were common. 

To test a better way, they launched a WhatsApp-based model—where buyers could place orders via message, and Source.One would take care of sourcing, logistics, and delivery. This lean approach helped them stay close to customer pain points, shaping what would eventually become a fully digital procurement platform focused on speed, transparency, and trust. 

Today, the Source.One app allows users to view live prices, track orders in real-time, apply for credit, and manage the entire buying journey—without the usual friction.

“With the Source.One app, buyers get everything at their fingertips—from sourcing and pricing to logistics and credit—bringing the entire procurement process into one digital interface.”

A national network built on predictability

While traditional distributors rely on manual processes and regional networks, Source.One has built an integrated ecosystem connecting over 800 trusted suppliers and 600 logistics partners.

With more than 200,000 metric tons of material delivered annually, the startup has scaled quickly, building presence across every Indian state. That scale isn’t just a function of volume—it’s a product of technology and operational clarity. 

Buyers can access live pricing, place and track orders, and get instant support through in-app tools and WhatsApp integration. The startup has even implemented AI-based freight modeling to optimise dispatch and delivery planning. 

GPS tracking via pre-planned routes, and dedicated transporters on high-frequency trade lanes have helped Source.One cut turnaround times and bring stability to a traditionally volatile logistics chain.

Expanding the product stack

Source.One is now present across 3 different supply chains, across Chemicals. It plans to expand across the Chemical chains, before expanding to other commodities in metal and agri.

One standout product is SourcePlus, a subscription service that provides buyers with market insights, pricing forecasts, and trade trend reports. This enables businesses to make data-backed decisions and avoid the guesswork that often defines procurement cycles in fast-moving markets. By streamlining access to both materials and market intelligence, the company aims to make procurement not just easier—but smarter.

Targeting 2.5x revenue growth

“Our investors saw more than just a business—they saw a bold vision to transform how raw materials are procured and delivered in India. What convinced them was the sheer depth of the problem we’re solving: fragmented supply chains, unpredictable pricing, and limited access for small manufacturers,” the founders said.

They further said that the investors have supported the company through strategic partnerships, financial structuring, and industry introductions that have accelerated momentum in a volatile sector.

In a capital-intensive industry, Source.One has maintained lean operations and a clear focus on profitability. The company has achieved operational profitability in multiple regions and plans to grow revenue 2.5x and profitability 5x over the next 2–3 years. Its approach remains asset-light and automation-heavy, with strong emphasis on process intelligence and scale-ready systems.

Despite growing traction and national presence, Source.One is not in a rush to expand globally. “With the size, complexity, and untapped potential of the Indian market, we believe there’s immense value to unlock here before looking beyond borders,” the company said. 

For now, Source.one is doubling down on vertical expansion, better freight models, and more intelligent procurement tools to serve India’s growing manufacturing ecosystem.