Fundraising for Maritime Innovation

Fundraising for Maritime Innovation

Join three experienced veterans in maritime innovation investment as we answer your burning questions. Send us your questions at https://pigeonhole.at/MARITIMEINVESTMENT

Panelists:

Chua Chye Poh
Founder, ShipsFocus

Chye Poh is the founder of ShipsFocus, a maritime-dedicated venture studio. He is also a venture partner at Quest Ventures, a leading venture fund headquartered in Singapore. Chye Poh’s interest is in inclusive growth; getting maritime commerce ride the digital wave; and helping maritime SMEs close the digital divide.

Michael Pomerleau
Partner, Rainmaking

Michael is an Investor and Tech Entrepreneur. He was previously an Investment Director, Greater China, A.P. Moller – Maersk in supply chain, port and infra space. He has led and executed multi-billion $ transactions including M&A and green-field, and has advised on C-suite and board level on tech, growth and investment strategy. Michael has a wide network of investors and corporates in across Asia and is fluent in Mandarin. He has experience in raising venture and VC funding.

Benjamin Zhu
Portfolio Manager, KSL Maritime Ventures

Benjamin is a Portfolio Manager at Kuok Group’s Singapore office where he is responsible for the Group’s investment portfolio which includes investments in the public markets, funds and direct investments. Before moving back to Singapore, Ben was an Investment Director at the Group’s Hong Kong office. Prior to joining the Group, Ben was at another family office and held several roles at JPMorgan in Hong Kong. Ben holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics from the National University of Singapore.

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: