Which of the solutions match your goals and ambitions? This guide will break down what sets these systems apart, helping you choose the option that delivers real value for your business. 

GROW with SAP vs. RISE with SAP: Which Path to Take?

Choosing the right SAP program can feel overwhelming, especially when every option sounds like it’s tailor-made for success. GROW with SAP and RISE with SAP both offer powerful tools to transform your business, but they cater to different needs. Knowing the difference isn’t just helpful — it’s essential to avoiding costly missteps.

So, which of the solutions match your goals and ambitions? This guide will break down what sets these systems apart, helping you choose the option that delivers real value for your business. 

Two Bundle Offerings of SAP Cloud ERP 

SAP’s GROW and RISE solutions are built on the foundation of cloud ERP, a modern approach to managing business operations. The core of SAP’s cloud ERP strategy is SAP S/4HANA Cloud, which comes in two versions: the Public Edition and the Private Edition. These versions form the backbone of SAP’s GROW with SAP and RISE with SAP packages, each tailored to specific business needs.

Although each is created for different needs, they share the advantages of cloud-based systems: real-time data access, faster adaptability, and seamless integration. 

What Is GROW with SAP?

GROW with SAP is a solution built for small and medium-sized businesses looking for a fast,  affordable, and effective way to start using cloud ERP. Its main goal is to help companies move quickly while keeping things simple.

Key components include the following:

• SAP S/4HANA Cloud, Public Edition 一 a ready-to-use ERP system in the cloud that handles essential business functions like finance, sales, and supply chain.
• Preconfigured industry-proven Best Practices that simplify setup and save time.
• Services for rapid cloud ERP implementation 一 a package of tools and resources to guide businesses through the setup process. It includes SAP Activate Methodology, which ensures that everything is deployed efficiently and without unnecessary delays.

This package is a great fit for businesses that need quick results, don’t have large IT departments, and want a system that grows as their operations scale. It offers a number of convenient benefits, such as:

• Fast setup by leveraging Best Practices
• Lower upfront costs compared to traditional ERP solutions
• User-friendly interface, so teams can adopt it quickly
• Scalability, so the system can grow as the business expands.

What is RISE with SAP?

RISE with SAP is a package for businesses aiming to modernize their systems and operations. It combines cloud ERP with analytics, process optimization, and collaboration tools 一 all in one subscription. 

The solution offers the following features:

• SAP S/4HANA Cloud Private Editions一 flexible deployment options to meet unique business needs.
• Business process intelligence tools that analyze workflows and suggest improvements.
• SAP Business Network Starter Pack connects businesses with suppliers and partners for seamless collaboration.
• Built-in advanced tools, such as analytics and AI, with automated system updates.

RISE with SAP is the best choice for mid-sized companies to large enterprises with complex processes that need customized ERP solutions.

Business benefits you'll receive with this package:

• Tools that improve operational efficiency by automating routine tasks.
• A single subscription that covers software, infrastructure, and support.
• Easy integration with SAP and third-party systems.

Key Differences Between GROW with SAP and RISE with SAP

Now that we’ve covered the basics of these two SAP solutions, let’s explore the differences between them .

Target market

GROW with SAP is designed for small and medium-sized businesses looking for simplicity and speed. It suits organizations with straightforward processes that don’t require heavy customization.

RISE with SAP caters to larger enterprises with complex needs. It offers flexibility for businesses looking to refine processes and embrace a long-term digital transformation.

Scope of offering

GROW with SAP focuses exclusively on ERP, providing the tools SMEs need to manage key operations like finance, procurement, and sales. RISE with SAP goes beyond ERP. It’s a full transformation package that provides process optimization, collaboration tools, and access to the SAP Business Network.

Customization and flexibility

GROW with SAP provides standard configurations and industry-proven best practices. This makes it easy to get started quickly, but options for large-scale adjustments are limited. 

RISE with SAP allows extensive customization. Companies can adapt the system to fit unique requirements, whether it’s modifying workflows or integrating with third-party tools.

Implementation timeframe

GROW with SAP is built for speed. Thanks to the preconfigured best practices and simplified processes, businesses can be up and running in a few months.

RISE with SAP requires a more detailed implementation process. The timeline includes planning, customization, and system alignment, which makes it suitable for companies prepared to invest in a thorough transformation.

Organizations need to proactively consider potential challenges, such as data security, integration complexities, dependency on service providers, and change management efforts in order to leverage the benefits of RISE with SAP.

Pricing models

GROW with SAP offers straightforward pricing. Costs are typically lower and based on a subscription model. This makes it more accessible to smaller businesses. 

RISE with SAP has a more complex pricing structure. It includes various components, from software to infrastructure, bundled under one subscription fee.

Included services and tools

GROW with SAP includes essential ERP tools and prebuilt templates, but fewer extras. It’s streamlined for companies that want the basics without additional features.

RISE with SAP provides a comprehensive set of tools, including business process intelligence for optimization, analytics, and AI. It also includes access to the SAP Business Network Starter Pack.

Cloud deployment options

GROW with SAP is available only in the public cloud, which makes it a preferred option for businesses with standard needs seeking a scalable and cost-effective solution.

RISE with SAP offers both public and private cloud options. This flexibility allows companies to choose based on their data security, compliance, and operational needs.

Differentiating GROW with SAP and RISE with SAP

Want to Implement GROW with SAP?

If you believe GROW with SAP matches your need for a quick and efficient cloud ERP solution, you have two package options: Base and Premium.

The Base edition is designed for smaller businesses or those in emerging economies, offering an affordable entry point. It includes licenses for SAP BTP, finance tools, and basic Ariba Buying features to streamline procurement.

Aimed at midsize and larger organizations, the Premium edition, builds on the Base edition, but comes with added capabilities. These include expanded finance tools, SAP Analytics Cloud Planning, SAP Sales Cloud, and Concur Expense Professional for broader business support.

Both editions include Cloud Platform Enterprise Agreement (CPEA) credits that allow access to eligible SAP BTP services. You also get SAP Build tools to develop apps, automate workflows, and design business portals. The amount of CPEA credits depends on the specifics of your contract.

Or Will RISE with SAP Better Suit Your Goals?

If you’re interested in RISE with SAP, you have three options: Base, Premium, and Premium Plus.

The Base edition provides SAP S/4HANA Cloud Private Edition with a simplified setup, which is perfect for smaller companies starting their journey to the cloud.

The Premium edition introduces AI-powered features, process automation, low-code development tools, and supplier network access, making it ideal for growing businesses.

The Premium Plus edition takes this further, adding advanced AI scenarios, sustainability tools, and robust financial management capabilities.

Like GROW with SAP, the Premium and Premium Plus editions of RISE with SAP include CPEA credits for SAP BTP services and access to SAP Build tools for app creation and process automation. These credits are determined by your contract's annual valuation.

RISE and GROW Together With LeverX

Still deciding between GROW with SAP and RISE with SAP? Or have you already made your choice and want to bring it to life? Partnering with LeverX means gaining access to expertise shaped by over 950 successful projects for more than 800 clients worldwide, including industry leaders from the Fortune 500 list.

We don’t just implement solutions; we dive into your business goals and uncover opportunities you might not have considered. Our team brings practical insights and hands-on support to every step of your SAP journey, whether it’s overcoming challenges, optimizing processes, or scaling operations with confidence.

Partner with us and let’s work together to make your SAP project a success.