Smart Port Challenge an annual competition that calls for ideas and solutions from the global start-up community to address innovation opportunities from maritime corporates in Singapore. Shortlisted start-ups undergo a market validation and customer discovery programme called PIER71 Accelerate and the top teams go through to a Grand Final for a chance to win cash prizes.

We use a range of criteria including but not limited to the tech capabilities, growth potential, market traction, and more. Corporate partners are also invited to provide insights from the users and industry perspectives.

Our programme focuses on technology companies which we can value add. So, send in your application and we will help to evaluate if our mentors, support and infrastructure is able to help you reach your next goal.

We encourage tech entrepreneurs to reimagine their technologies for the maritime industry, which also faces challenges in common areas such as payments, healthcare, insurance, etc. Even though these areas may not be listed on the ‘Innovation Opportunities’ page, many of our corporate partners have picked up proposals that address these concerns

We are also interested in reviewing proposals that could help to drive innovations in the following 5 thrusts, which make up the Open Category. They are (1) Smart Port (2) Smart Ship (3) Crew Safety, Training and Wellbeing (4) Smart Maritime Services and Logistics (5) Green Technology

Shortlisted finalists will be enrolled into 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 some events which will be conducted in Singapore.  These are not limited to programme kickoff, networking, workshops, Semi- and Grand Finals.

All shortlisted teams are required to participate in the PIER71™ Accelerate programme. Only the best teams will be chosen to pitch during the Grand Final. Nevertheless, we will also be curating different sessions to showcase our finalists at the Grand Final.

By the end of the Challenge, you should have a viable product/solution, business model and addressable market. The mentorship, workshops, masterclasses and connections you receive through PIER71 Accelerate should also help you secure a pilot project with at least one maritime corporate which may be funded by a grant amount through MPA.

You are not expected to give up or share your IP with any parties during your participation in Smart Port Challenge. Any technology/product development that may result in the creation of foreground IP will be undertaken by yourself and the other parties.

You may reach out to  Enquiries@pier71.sg for any further queries.