Corporates

We work with maritime corporates to identify challenges and demand gaps, then turn them into innovation opportunities to attract the best ideas and solutions from around the world. By bringing together an ecosystem of innovative thinkers, maritime veterans and experts, technology, entrepreneurial know-how and investment opportunities, we act as a catalyst in accelerating digital transformation within the maritime industry.

Innovation Opportunities

PIER71TM runs an annual innovation competition called the Smart Port Challenge in Singapore. Start-ups from around the world are invited to submit proposals to address real challenges, or innovation opportunities, put forth by maritime corporates. To create these innovation opportunities, PIER71TM invites selected maritime corporates to an innovation workshop, facilitated by a panel of maritime veterans and technology experts, to gather your input. Our panel will work in collaboration with you to finalise these innovation opportunities.

Smart Port Challenge

Generally begins with calls for participation in June, and concludes with a Grand Final in November. Selected finalists undergo PIER71TM Accelerate, a market validation and customer discovery programme backed by world-class entrepreneurship education from NUS Enterprise and specifically curated for the maritime industry. This is your opportunity to engage with start-ups to explore and test ideas, identify opportunities to run pilot projects, gain traction for adoption of new technologies, and find new ways to address your business challenges.

Our Curated Start-ups

Close to 100 start-ups from Asia, Europe and the Americas have already been through Smart Port Challenge. Many of these now have their solutions implemented within the maritime industry. Some have gone on to receive additional funding to grow their business and continue to innovate. Follow their journey and you might find a few that could make a positive impact on your digital transformation roadmap, or whose solutions you might be ready to adopt.

Community Events

As we continue to grow the reach and vibrancy of the maritime ecosystem, PIER71TM runs community events throughout the year to advocate learning, sharing and networking. Visit our News & Events page regularly to find out what’s happening or join our mailing list and be the first to know.

    Shortlisted finalists are enrolled in a two-phase, 12-week programme.


    Phase 1: Fit Check - Market Discovery and Validation

    Kickstart your journey by diving deep into the heart of your market! In this phase, we'll help you answer the pivotal question: Is there a product-market fit for your solution? Validate your tech, test your assumptions, and find the perfect match for your innovation. A review will be conducted at the end of Phase 1. Only selected participants will advance to Phase 2.


    Phase 2: Gap Busters - Navigating New Markets

    Now, it's time to bridge the commercial gap. In this phase, you’ll partner with industry veterans who bring sharp business insights to the table. Together, you’ll navigate and conquer markets that may be uncharted territory for your startup.


    Although the programme is designed for remote and overseas participants, in-person participation is required for the following events conducted in Singapore: