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Enhancing connectivity for digital port services

Key Focus Area:

Next Generation Ports

BACKGROUND

Harbourcraft operators and (within the ship) face intermittent or unreliable internet connectivity when providing digitally enabled services to ships (e.g. ship supplies, apps, certain cases for bunkering), especially in anchorages further out at sea. In addition, receiving vessels might also have limited Internet connectivity. How might we overcome connectivity issues for digitally enabled services in port waters?

SIGNIFICANCE OF PROBLEM

  • MPA is pushing Digitalisation initiatives to enhance efficiency, transparency and crew safety.
  • Transactions in anchorage could involve millions of dollars.
  • Disruptions during digital transactions would affect effectiveness of the operations.
  • Connectivity interference between large vessels and smaller vessels like harbourcraft.

POTENTIAL MARKET SIZE

  • Harbourcrafts operating in Singapore waters.
  • Solutions can be test bedded in Singapore port waters and potentially scaled to other ports.

EXISTING EFFORTS

  • M1 is setting up maritime 5G base stations with support from MPA and IMDA but this is unlikely to overcome all connectivity issues between harbourcrafts and large ships.

SOLUTION SUCCESS PARAMETERS

  • Stable broadband connectivity equivalent of 4G data rate.
  • Within space constraints of vessel if solution is hardware-based.

POTENTIAL SOLUTION SPACES

  • Technology that enhances internet connectivity (marinized, ruggedized, reliability)
  • Edge devices to carry out data (de) compression and/or offer offline transaction/authentication
  • Portable WIFI suitable for maritime applications

Apply by Monday 8 July 2024, 5PM SGT.
Founding Partners
MPA Singapore NUS Enterprise
Part of
Maritime 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: