Applications Now Open for the EPS MaritimeTech Accelerator

From April 9 until July 7, 2019, the EPS MaritimeTech Accelerator Powered by Techstars will be accepting applications from startups around the world to participate in its inaugural class in Singapore.

Ten companies will be selected for the 90-day program, which commences in November 2019, and will undergo an intensive program of research and development, mentorship, and collaboration, culminating in a demo day in February 2020. During the demo day, every startup will pitch its newly polished business to facilitate further investment and/or partnerships, while broadening and energizing the domestic startup ecosystem. The accelerator was launched in January 2019 and is a partnership between Eastern Pacific Shipping (EPS), an industry-leading ship management company, and Techstars, the worldwide network that helps entrepreneurs succeed.

“We are very excited to finally be accepting applications,” says Gil Ofer, Business Development Manager of 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. In addition, the appointment of Dhritiman Hui as our Managing Director assures us that this will be a successful, professionally-run process.”

Mr. Hui has spent several years in the maritime and investment sector and also serves as Managing Director of Techstars’ other accelerator based in Singapore, the Rakuten Accelerator, powered by Techstars. He has deep familiarity with the countless technological opportunities in the space and sees this accelerator program as a 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 realize new business partnerships,” says Mr. Hui. “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 startup with technology applicable to the maritime industry, the following themes will be especially considered: Fuel efficiency, vessel and commercial optimization (including AI/IoT), shore-side technology, safety, cybersecurity, 3D printing and advanced materials, immersive technologies (AR/VR), and environmental preservation.

Companies who feel they are a good fit for the EPS MaritimeTech Accelerator Powered by Techstars are encouraged to apply. They may request more information about the program, schedule one-on-one office hours, or apply now through July 7, 2019.