» class=»RichTextAlignLeft» src=»https://empresaexterior.com/upload/images/05_2026/2767_2_-grupo-presentacion-pier-71.jpg» />
La Fundación Valenciaport and Autoridad Portuaria de Valencia They have hosted a working visit from PIER71, the leading maritime innovation ecosystem of Singapur. The meeting, organized by Opentop, the open innovation hub of Valenciaport, seeks to establish synergies and collaborations to drive the technological transformation of the global port sector.
The hybrid event, attended by over 50 people, served as a strategic bridge between the Valencian port ecosystem and the Asian leader in maritime technology. The event highlights the growing international prominence of [the Valencian port community/industrial complex]. Opentop as a key player in open logistics and port innovation, attracting the interest of world-class hubs.
A strategic alliance between two powerhouses of port innovation
The visit highlighted a clear shared commitment by both organizations to build strong bridges between their respective ecosystems. The opening session included a welcome address by Juan Manuel Díez, Head of Innovation at Autoridad Portuaria de Valencia, and Lucía Calabria, In representation of Valencia Innovation Capital.
Then Salvador Furió, Director of Innovation and Development of the Cluster of the Fundación Valenciaport, presented the entity's activities, followed by Jorge MarcosResponsible for OpentopThe global perspective was provided by Jasper von Meie from the port of Hamburgo, who presented the network Port Innovators Network (PINE), Which Opentop He is a founding member.
On behalf of the Asian delegation, Danial Talib de PIER71 y Loh Sin Yee Loh de la Autoridad Marítima y Portuaria de Singapur (MPA)They presented their ecosystem model and acceleration programs, highlighting the Smart Port Challenge 2026The session revealed multiple points of convergence in methodologies and approaches to collaborative innovation with industry.
Thirteen startups present their disruptive solutions
A central part of the day was the session of pitchingwhere thirteen international startups had the opportunity to present their technological solutions to the innovation managers of PIER71 and a broad representation of the innovative community of ValenciaportThe companies that presented their projects were:
- Synnect
- Beecharge
- Caponnetto
- Connectainer
- DMS
- Imperia
- MarinaChai
- Nexus Ocean AI
- NOW Systems
- OneCare Group
- Stowlog
- Whale Dock
- XRF
Open opportunities for startups in Valencia and Singapore
The meeting coincides with a period of high activity for both hubs. Opentop Registration for their 6th Hackathon Valenciaport 2026, PIER71 It continues to accept applications for its flagship program, the Smart Port Challenge 2026These initiatives represent key opportunities for maritime startups seeking to scale their solutions globally.
| Ecosystem | Program / Initiative | Deadline / Celebration |
|---|---|---|
| PIER71 (Singapore) | Smart Port Challenge 2026 | 15 June, 2026 |
| Opentop (Valenciaport) | 6th Hackathon Valenciaport 2026 | Registration closed |
| Opentop (Valenciaport) | Port Entrepreneurship International Congress (PEIC) | October 2026 |
Voices of the protagonists: vision and future of collaboration
Juan Manuel Díez, Head of Innovation at Autoridad Portuaria de Valencia: "It has been very rewarding to be able to share with the team of PIER71 everything we are building in Valenciaport in the area of open innovation. Singapur It is a global benchmark in the port sector, and finding in PIER71 An ecosystem with a vision so aligned with our own energizes us to keep working. We look forward to exploring the collaborations that may arise from this meeting. Valencia".
Salvador Furió, Director of Innovation and Development of the Cluster of the Fundación Valenciaport: «Receive MPA (Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore) and PIER71 en Valencia is a sign that Opentop It is being recognized as an international benchmark in open port innovation. We share the same vision: that collaboration between ecosystems is a good way to accelerate the transformation of the maritime sector. This visit is the beginning of a relationship that we hope will be very fruitful for startups and for the ports of both regions.
Loh Sin Yee, Regional Director (Europe), Maritime and Port Authority of Singapur (MPA): "The Autoridad Marítima y Portuaria de Singapur appreciates the warm hospitality and valuable exchanges that the Valenciaport has provided us with excellent service during our visit. We look forward to further strengthening our collaboration and driving maritime innovation together, from sustainable port development to emerging technologies, including participation in the Smart Port Challenge 2026.”
Danial Talib, Community Engagement Manager, PIER71: “Visits like this remind us why collaboration is at the heart of maritime innovation. PIER71We believe that the best solutions emerge when maritime communities open their doors to innovation. Our stay at the Port of Valencia This has led to interesting conversations about how to connect the players in both ecosystems, and we look forward to supporting your startups that are ready to expand into the maritime sector. Singapur. "
Key points and frequently asked questions about the Valenciaport-PIER71 alliance
What impact does this alliance have on Spanish exporting companies?
For Spanish companies, this collaboration opens a direct gateway to one of the most dynamic innovation ecosystems in AsiaIt facilitates the possibility of technological solutions developed in España can be tested and implemented in the port of Singapur, a global logistics hub, thus opening up business opportunities in the Asian market.
What types of startups participated and what are these hubs looking for?
Thirteen startups participated, offering solutions focused on digitalization, operational efficiency, and sustainability in the maritime sector. Hubs such as Opentop y PIER71 They seek disruptive technologies in areas such as Artificial Intelligence, IoTDecarbonization and automation of port processes to solve the real challenges of the industry.
How can a Spanish startup participate in future calls for proposals?
Interested startups should monitor the official calls for proposals from both hubs. For opportunities in SingapurThey should be attentive to Smart Port Challenge de PIER71For the Spanish ecosystem, the reference hub is Opentop, which will soon open the call for applications for the Port Entrepreneurship International Congress (PEIC), a key event for port entrepreneurship.
Any questions about this news?
Talk to Coexia, the AI of the foreign trade
