The Smart Port Challenge 2025, organised by the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) and NUS Enterprise, has received a record 288 proposals from 35 countries. The event, held at the PIER71 Great Circle 2025, featured the ninth Smart Port Challenge Grand Finals and a Maritime Technology Innovation Showcase.
The challenge, which called for innovative solutions to address key issues in the maritime industry, saw submissions covering digitalisation, smart ports, smart shipping, and maritime green technologies. Roadshows were conducted across 13 cities, including new locations in Boston and Los Angeles, to expand its reach.
Nineteen start-ups were selected for the 10-week SPC Accelerate programme, receiving mentorship and support. These start-ups secured over 30 Letters of Intent with local maritime companies for proof-of-concept or pilot trials. Selected participants can qualify for grants up to $182,000 (S$250,000) under MPA’s Maritime Innovation and Technology Fund.
Cyntegra and Onecare Group were recognised as the top start-up and scale-up winners, respectively, each receiving $10,900 (S$15,000). Thematic prizes of $7,300 (S$10,000) were awarded to OneCare Group, Beecharge Innovation Group, and Fathom Science for their contributions to digitalisation, maritime green technologies, and smart shipping.
Since its inception, PIER71 has nurtured nearly 170 start-ups, raising over $94,800,000 (S$130m) in venture capital funding. This year, it launched a MarineTech Directory to connect maritime companies with promising start-ups, reinforcing its role as a catalyst for maritime innovation.
