PIER71 Programmes
We work with startups from all over the world. In addition to providing access to markets, funding, technology and talent, we are backed by a world-class entrepreneurship education and have a pool of resources to support your ambition in reimagining innovation for the maritime industry.
We work with startups from all over the world. In addition to providing access to markets, funding, technology and talent, we are backed by a world-class entrepreneurship education and have a pool of resources to support your ambition in reimagining innovation for the maritime industry.
Smart Port Challenge
The PIER71 Smart Port Challenge (SPC) is an annual innovation competition to find the best ideas and solutions from technology startups to address innovation opportunities put forth by maritime corporates in Singapore.
As a Smart Port Challenge finalist, you will be enrolled into SPC Accelerate, a highly selective and exclusive ten-week programme. The first-of-its-kind in Singapore, SPC Accelerate is a market validation and customer discovery programme backed by world-class entrepreneurship education from NUS Enterprise and specifically curated for the maritime industry. Through this, you will:
- Work with maritime mentors and have access to workshops and masterclasses conducted by industry veterans and domain experts.
- Receive personal coaching to perfect your go-to-market pitch and better position your product for the regional maritime sector.
- Get connected to maritime corporates, investors, venture capitalists, serial entrepreneurs, as well as other PIER71 partners and alumni.
- Be eligible for test-bedding grants of up to $100,000 SGD under MPA’s MINT Startup Grant.


Landing Pad
The Landing Pad is more than just a space — it’s a launchpad for startups that are reimagining the future of maritime. Located in the heart of Singapore’s innovation district at BLOCK71, it is where ambition meets opportunity.
Priority for Smart Port Challenge Startups
Startups selected for the PIER71 Smart Port Challenge (SPC) gain priority access to this competitive, fully sponsored residency — designed to help you scale with confidence in a vibrant, innovation-first environment.
Your Journey Doesn’t End After the Programme
Graduated startups from our programmes remain part of our growing ecosystem, with exclusive access to:
- Expert-led masterclasses
- Our Mentor-in-Residence programme
- Curated industry engagements and investor connections
Everything You Need to Build, Collaborate, and Grow
Meeting rooms for partner discussions
Hotdesks for daily hustle
Specialty coffee and a community that fuels bold ideas
Who Else Can Join?
Our doors are also opened to:
- Startups with an eye on future Smart Port Challenge participation
- Overseas maritime innovators looking to plug into Singapore’s ecosystem — short-term access available on a case-by-case basis
Whether you’re testing the waters or ready to make waves, the Landing Pad is your home port for maritime innovation.
Get in touch to learn more or express your interest.