Smart port challenge launches

The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) and NUS Enterprise, the entrepreneurial arm of the National University of Singapore (NUS), have announced the launch of the Smart Port Challenge (SPC) 2020 under Port Innovation Ecosystem Reimagined @ BLOCK71 (PIER71).

Quah Ley Hoon, chief executive of MPA, said: “As the shipping industry grapples with COVID-19, many companies are already repositioning themselves for the new normal. There are opportunities for greater digitalisation, automation and adoption of new technology.

“The Smart Port Challenge comes in timely where start-ups join hands with the shipping companies to curate solutions to future-proof ourselves and build a more resilient maritime community; with the added venture capital funding steering more resources towards this important effort.”

Technology start-ups are invited to submit proposals based on any of the 17 innovation opportunities that have been curated in collaboration with 15 maritime corporates and other partners this year.

Shortlisted start-ups will gain exclusive access to PIER71 Accelerate, a six-week market and business model validation programme; PIER71’s Venture Capital (VC) partner network for investment advice and mentoring; workshops and masterclasses, in addition to continued support beyond SPC.

These startups will be eligible for MPA grant applications of up to S$50,000 each and have the opportunity to win cash prizes.

To support Maritime Singapore’s long-term sustainability goals, an innovation opportunity focusing on maritime decarbonisation will be featured for the first time.

The closing date for submission of proposals is 10 August 2020.