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Smart Port Challenge 2026

PIER71 Smart Port Challenge 2026

Smart Port Challenge 2026

PIER71 Smart Port Challenge (SPC) is an annual innovation challenge organised by PIER71 to attract startups with breakthrough technology-driven solutions to step forward and address key challenges faced by the maritime industry.

Thematic Areas

Maritime Green Technologies

Next Generation Port

Smart Shipping

Digitalisation (AI, Cloud, Cybersecurity)
The Journey to PIER71 Smart Port Challenge has Begun!

Since 2018, we have engaged actively with the maritime industry to identify their needs and challenges, which are then translated into innovation opportunities. From hundreds of applications each year, we select the finalists for the PIER71 Smart Port Challenge (SPC) – these are start-ups who can address the industry challenges identified, and are invited to complete our 10-week SPC Accelerate programme.

Over the duration of the programme, the start-ups will delve into a world of opportunities to refine their products and solutions, broaden their horizons and establish significant relationships within the maritime industry.

SPC Accelerate is not just a programme; it’s an ecosystem designed to nurture their development. They will gain access to a treasure trove of resources, including masterclasses, workshops, mentorship sessions, networking events and a lot more. Each of these meticulously curated sessions is designed to equip them with insights, skills and perspectives that will be pivotal to their entrepreneurial journey, providing opportunities for market validation and potential collaborations with industry leaders.

Programme

  • 22 Apr 2026

    15 Jun 2026

    SPC Launch and Applications Open

    The highly anticipated Smart Port Challenge is back! Calling on start-ups with innovative solutions to tackle real-world maritime challenges. Join us at the Launch event in Singapore, or any one of our global Roadshows to hear from industry partners, explore the Innovation Opportunities, and take the first step toward transforming the future of maritime. Submit your applications by 15 Jun 2026, 5:00 PM SGT!

  • 19 Jun 2026

    5 Sep 2026

    Shortlisting and Cohort Prep

    After Application close, proposals will be shortlisted by a panel of maritime and technology experts. Shortlisted teams can expect to hear back by 31 Jul 2026 on the next steps and preparation required leading up to SPC Accelerate.

  • 7 Sep 2026

    6 Nov 2026

    SPC Accelerate Programme

    Start-ups are enrolled in a 10-week market validation and customer discovery programme in Singapore called SPC Accelerate. SPC Accelerate consists of Mentoring sessions, Workshops and Networking opportunities aimed at helping start-ups expand to Singapore.

    Attendance in-person is mandatory for the Kickoff Week (7 - 11 Sep). Attendance in-person throughout the programme is highly encouraged, as all events are specially curated and crucial for networking and collaboration, and your presence will greatly enhance the experience. Hybrid sessions are possible for certain sessions.

  • 6 Nov 2026

    12 Nov 2026

    Grand Finale Week

    As the SPC Accelerate Programme draws to a close, this week marks a significant milestone in your start-up journey. Attendance in-person is mandatory this week for Semi-Finals and Grand Finale, for a chance to pitch in front of judges, maritime partners and investors to secure the top prizes. The week ends with a final Review & Reflections and Celebratory Lunch, a final session for the cohort to share learnings and celebrate how far they have come since.

Smart Port Challenge 2026 Innovation Opportunities

Having engaged with over 100 corporates to understand their real-world challenges, we are now seeking the best solutions across the following Innovation Opportunities.

If your solutions do not apply to any of the innovation opportunities above, you may apply for the challenge using the Open Category.

Innovation Partners (2026)

These are the maritime corporates in our ecosystem supporting the Innovation Opportunities, keen to collaborate and explore testbedding opportunities.
We would like to express our sincere thanks to our Innovation Partners for your support towards the Smart Port Challenge 2026.