From Idea to Growth
Many entrepreneurs focus on technology and product development, but once the first prototype is built, mastering suppliers, logistics, and agreements become absolutely essential. Even the best ideas can collapse if supplier contracts and processes aren’t under control.
In DTU Science Park’s acceleration programs, Henrik supports startups by creating clarity, asking the tough questions, and ensuring solid agreements: Who holds responsibility? Are the contracts in place? What happens if something goes wrong?
Here are his eight golden rules for supply chain management:
Eight Lessons Every Startup Should Know
- Put it in writing
Henrik’s mantra is clear: If it isn’t in writing, it isn’t an agreement. When challenges arise – delays, price changes, or quality issues – the contract is what saves you. - Clarify roles
The supply chain consists of many links, and you need to know where the responsibilities are placed. Who is responsible for quality, inventory, and distribution? Unclear roles lead to costly misunderstandings. - Negotiation is storytelling
As a startup, you often don’t begin with large purchase volumes. Instead, you must make yourself attractive by selling the vision of becoming a major customer in the future. Suppliers invest in your potential, not just your first order. - Balance sales forecasts, capacity, and shelf life
Suppliers may push for larger volumes—but can you sell them? For food products and medical devices, shelf life is critical. For hardware, the risk may lie in technological obsolescence. - Know your lead times
Low-cost production overseas isn’t always an advantage if customers have to wait six months. Never promise more than you can realistically deliver, and make sure you understand lead times throughout your entire supply chain. - Start small—think big
In the early stages, choose a flexible supplier, even if it’s more expensive. As your business grows, you can switch to a scalable solution at a lower cost. - Build trust through honesty
Resist the temptation to appear bigger than you are. Be honest about your current size – while being clear about your ambitions. This builds respect and credibility. - Always have a Plan B
Think ahead about what could go wrong: Tariffs, transport issues, quality failures. Create scenarios and ensure you have alternatives in place before a crisis hits.
Support When It Truly Matters
For a startup with only a handful of employees – often with expertise in areas other than logistics and supply chain – having an experienced advisor like Henrik at the table can make all the difference.
Through DTU Science Park’s startup programs – DTC, GreenUp, MedTech, and DefenceTech Denmark – entrepreneurs gain access to seasoned experts across a wide range of fields. These mentors ask the relevant questions, create clarity, and help build the structure that ensures great ideas don’t just get started, but get the chance to grow.
