Plug and Play, a global innovation platform headquartered in Silicon Valley, has partnered the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) to accelerate innovation, digitalisation, and decarbonisation in the maritime sector. This collaboration aims to strengthen Singapore’s maritime innovation ecosystem by supporting maritime startups, fostering stronger corporate engagement, and building a vibrant community of innovators and stakeholders. 

2. Through this partnership, MPA will be able to tap on Plug and Play’s extensive network and expertise to identify promising startups, introduce emerging technology solutions, and reinforce Singapore’s position as a leading innovation hub to drive impactful change across the maritime industry.

3. The partnership will strengthen PIER71™ (Port Innovation Ecosystem Reimagined @ BLOCK71), a maritime innovation ecosystem building initiative led by MPA and the National University of Singapore’s (NUS) entrepreneurial arm, NUS Enterprise. Plug and Play’s expertise and network will drive stronger corporate participation and complement PIER71™ efforts to attract promising startups, facilitate industry collaborations, and accelerate the deployment of cutting-edge maritime solutions. This will also further integrate Singapore’s maritime ecosystem with global innovation networks, creating more opportunities for startups to test and scale their solutions.

4. Mr Jupe Tan, Managing Partner, APAC – Plug and Play Tech Center, said, “Since 2021, Plug and Play’s Maritime program has driven innovation in smart shipping, sustainability, supply chain optimization, safety and wellbeing, and smart infrastructure. Having identified and worked with over 500 leading startups, we are now expanding our Maritime program to Singapore in partnership with MPA, further strengthening our global presence in one of the world's leading maritime hubs.” 

5. Mr Kenneth Lim, Assistant Chief Executive (Industry & Transformation), MPA, said, “The maritime industry is undergoing rapid transformation and innovation is key to ensuring Maritime Singapore remains competitive and sustainable. Our partnership with Plug and Play will strengthen Singapore’s maritime innovation ecosystem by broadening access to global networks, testbeds, and funding opportunities. By connecting startups with industry players, and supporting the development of promising solutions, we aim to accelerate digitalisation, decarbonisation, and efficiency across the sector.”