New partnership creates reciprocal pathways for maritime startups to enter new markets, access industry ecosystems and accelerate commercialization
LOS ANGELES, CA, September 14, 2026 — Braid Theory, a venture platform supporting science and engineering-led companies in the maritime sector, and PIER71™, a joint initiative between the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore and the National University of Singapore through its entrepreneurial arm, NUS Enterprise, have signed a new partnership to strengthen connections between maritime innovation ecosystems in Singapore and the United States.
The partnership formalizes collaboration between the two organizations and creates new pathways for maritime startups to access markets, industry partners, investors, programs and ecosystem resources across both regions.
“Singapore has been an important part of Braid Theory's global network for years, and this partnership formalizes the work we have already been doing with PIER71 and the broader ecosystem,” said Ann Lee Carpenter, CEO of Braid Theory. “Our goal is to make it easier for promising maritime technologies to move beyond pilots and into new markets. By connecting Singapore and the United States, we can give founders greater access to the relationships, market knowledge and commercial opportunities they need to scale.”
Creating a two-way pathway for maritime startups
Under the partnership, selected startups from each ecosystem will receive reciprocal market-entry support.
PIER71 startups seeking to enter the United States will gain access to Braid Theory's ecosystem, including relevant startup services, industry and venture networks, events and market connections. Braid Theory startups seeking to establish a presence in Singapore will have access to PIER71's Landing Pad, including a sponsored workspace, ecosystem programming and connections to local service providers, industry stakeholders and investors.
The partnership also establishes pathways for startups to participate in each organization's flagship programs. PIER71-endorsed startups from the Braid Theory ecosystem can be considered for the Smart Port Challenge, PIER71's flagship program connecting maritime startups with innovation opportunities identified by industry. Braid Theory startups will also be connected to opportunities through Braid Theory's LA Blue Accelerator and Blue Future Incubator programs.
This reciprocal program access is designed to help startups move from technology development and pilot projects toward commercial deployment and international growth.
Connecting founders to industry and new markets
Beyond market entry, the partnership will create opportunities for founders to engage directly with each ecosystem's broader maritime community.
Selected PIER71 startups will have opportunities to participate in IGNITE22, Braid Theory's annual blue economy innovation showcase, including opportunities for live demonstrations on land and in the water. Braid Theory startups entering Singapore will similarly have opportunities to participate in PIER71 events and programming, including events connected to Singapore Maritime Week, the Smart Port Challenge and the broader MPA and NUS ecosystem.
The organizations will also work together on startup scouting and ecosystem exchange, with both parties committing to identify and introduce potential startups from their respective networks for market-entry opportunities each year. The partnership also calls for joint outreach events and knowledge-sharing activities to deepen connections between the two ecosystems.
Building a bridge between two global maritime ecosystems
Singapore and the United States are home to significant maritime, logistics and blue economy ecosystems, creating substantial opportunities for technology companies developing solutions for the future of ports, shipping and ocean industries.
For Braid Theory, the partnership represents another step in building a global network that helps maritime companies translate technical innovation into commercial opportunity.
