The EPS MaritimeTech Accelerator, a joint project between Singapore-based shipmanager Eastern Pacific Shipping (EPS) and entrepreneurs’ network Techstars, has announced that it is now accepting applications from start-ups around the world to participate in its inaugural class in Singapore.
The accelerator was launched in January 2019, and will now begin reviewing applications to choose ten companies for the 90-day programme, which commences in November 2019.
The selected start-ups will take part in research and development, mentorship, and collaboration activities as part of the programme, culminating in a demo day in February 2020 where each start-up will pitch its business to try and attract investment and partnership opportunities.
“We are very excited to finally be accepting applications,” said Gil Ofer, Business Development Manager at EPS and the accelerator’s Executive Sponsor.
“Both EPS and Techstars have been working diligently to get to this point, and we look forward to jointly selecting ten companies that will spearhead a positive impact upon the marine transportation industry.”
Dhritiman Hui has been appointed as Managing Director of the accelerator. Mr Hui also serves as Managing Director of Techstars’ other accelerator based in Singapore, the Rakuten Accelerator, and sees this programme as a potential game-changer for the maritime industry.
“Singapore is the perfect place for entrepreneurs in maritime tech to base themselves for a few months to build out their network and realise new business partnerships,” he said.
“The maritime world has traditionally lagged behind other sectors when it comes to embracing and leveraging the power of digital solutions and new technology. Now, the confluence of new regulation, an influx of tech-savvy entrepreneurs interested in the space, and large, deep-pocketed VC funds intrigued by the size and the possibilities of the maritime sector, are threatening to shift that paradigm.”
While the accelerator is open to any start-up with technology applicable to the maritime industry, the founders note that work in the following areas is particularly welcomed: Fuel efficiency, vessel and commercial optimisation (including AI/IoT), shore-side technology, safety, cybersecurity, 3D printing and advanced materials, immersive technologies (AR/VR), and environmental preservation.
