Indore's TapOnn Aims to Revolutionize Traditional Business Card Exchange

In 2022, Dhruv Jolly introduced a groundbreaking shift in the traditional practice of exchanging physical business cards at networking events and official meetings. He launched TapOnn Digital, a comprehensive networking platform designed to enable users to effortlessly share both personal and professional information with a simple tap. According to Jolly, "This cutting-edge technology empowers individuals to convert every new connection they make into an opportunity for business growth. TapOnn caters to modern networking and ambitious professionals who recognize the importance of networking in building their businesses."

Based in Indore, TapOnn operates on near-field communication (NFC) technology, facilitating communication between devices in close proximity. Before its official launch, the startup conducted a successful beta test involving 300 users across India.

TapOnn offers a range of products, including smart cards, smart coins, and smart sockets, all powered by a smart chip mechanism that enables the seamless transmission of user data to a phone equipped with NFC capabilities. These innovative products empower individuals and businesses to effortlessly exchange contact information, digital content, and brand portfolios, including business details, brochures, coupons, and more. Moreover, users can deploy smart coins and sockets for similar purposes, attaching them to phone cases, laptops, or tablets.

The core of this platform is its accompanying app, where users can conveniently access their networking data from a centralized location. Upon creating a profile on the app, users can select the social profiles and other information they wish to share. If the recipient's phone lacks NFC capabilities, the sender can alternatively share a link or QR code, eliminating the need for the recipient to download the app. Users have the flexibility to modify, delete, add, or update their information and choose what to share and with whom. Jolly emphasizes that TapOnn imposes no limits on the information users can access, ranging from social accounts and documents to websites and PDFs.

Additionally, TapOnn provides a scanner for digitizing paper business cards, offers analytics and insights on connections, and supports the creation of multiple profiles. Currently, the company operates on a direct-to-customer (D2C) model, primarily focusing on the sale of its smart products. Their analytics feature tracks the number and location of connections, as well as the most frequently tapped platform.

TapOnn's products are designed for long-term use and come with a two-year warranty and a replacement guarantee in case of damage or malfunction. The startup employs an omnichannel approach to deliver a seamless shopping experience across various channels, including online e-commerce platforms, marketplaces, offline stores, retail outlets, and exhibitions.

Looking forward, TapOnn aims to establish an ecosystem where companies can efficiently manage all employee smart cards through a centralized dashboard, providing access to connections and data. The admin overseeing employee smart cards can manage employee details and profiles. Moreover, through integrations, the platform can offer connection data and location information for the people employees are networking with, facilitating better monitoring of team activities.

TapOnn is also working on integrating its API with various CRM and automation software, simplifying event scheduling, contact updates, and marketing automation for employees. The startup employs a tech stack comprising Flutter, Angular, and Node JS to support these integrations.

In the near term, TapOnn's goal is to reach 10,000 customers or 2,500 orders per month within the next six months. Following this phase, the company plans to launch a business-to-business (B2B) model and introduce a subscription-based offering.

As of now, TapOnn boasts approximately 1,000 users on its app, with a daily active user base of 150-200 individuals. Jolly notes that demand is steadily increasing month by month, with substantial room for growth. The startup charges a one-time fee for its products, with smart cards ranging from Rs 1,250 to Rs 1,750 and smart sockets from Rs 999 to Rs 1,499. Customization options are available to cater to users' specific needs and can reach up to Rs 5,000.

In terms of revenue, TapOnn generated Rs 94,980 in November, Rs 2.16 lakh in December, and Rs 4.5 lakh in January. The company has set its sights on achieving Rs 25 lakh in monthly revenue within the next six months, indicating rapid growth with a remarkable 100X increase in just three months. Currently, orders are primarily placed through the startup's website.

Market data from Fortune Business Insight reveals that the global network as a service market is projected to grow from $11.64 billion in 2022 to $80.73 billion in 2029, reflecting a remarkable CAGR of 31.9% during 2022-2029.

To support its mission, TapOnn secured $150,000 in angel funding from Linda Ye of Wita Inc., New York, US. This funding will be directed towards technology enhancements, increased marketing efforts, and the development of additional products.

In a competitive landscape, TapOnn competes with notable players such as Popl, V1CE, TapNi, TapIt, and Scube. The company envisions establishing a community of brand ambassadors among its users, who will play a pivotal role in expanding its user base through their networks. Jolly explains, "We are set to launch our affiliate program, where users can join as ambassadors. Upon joining, they will receive a unique link and discounts (ranging from 10% to 20%) for their referral codes, which will be tracked." The company is also exploring collaborations with other manufacturers to introduce more innovative smart products to the market.

In summary, TapOnn Digital is revolutionizing networking and professional connections with its innovative NFC-powered products and app, poised to redefine how individuals and businesses share information and engage in networking activities.