Twelve port-related startups from around the world have settled in Rotterdam the last year. Six of these have a customer contract. Through this, the port accelerator PortXL has clearly proven itself in its first year. Today, November 1^st, PortXL, together with its internationally recognized partners, is launching the new deadline for the startup accelerator program.

 A successful first year

Rotterdam harbour is a haven for port-lovers with innovative ideas and concepts. And the ambition to be the smartest port in the world is of paramount importance. For this reason PortXL was launched on October 29, 2015, the only startup program with a focus on ports. More than 180 mentors and highly involved partners (Van Oord, Port of Rotterdam, EY, Erasmus Centre for Entrepreneurship, Vopak, Damen, Uniper, First Dutch, Rabobank, Boskalis, Innovation Quarter) offered twelve startups the opportunity to bring their technologies to a higher level. With success: from the twelve startups six have signed a customer contract. In addition, all startups have indicated they have the intention to stay in Rotterdam. For them, Rotterdam is the place to bring their startup to a higher level.

PortXL is a hundred-day program where ten to twelve selected startups are intensively coached by mentors to jumpstart their concepts. Startups have the opportunity to pitch their technologies in three months to 250 port professionals and more than 20 CEO’s. Through this PortXL is creating a bridge between startups and large enterprises.

Application

Currently PortXL is looking for the ten most promising port-related startups in the world for the 2017 program. The program selects teams with disruptive, scalable business propositions that can be launched within a year. PortXL focuses on Transport & Logistics, Energy, Chemical & Refining and Maritime sectors. On June 22, 2017 these startups will present themselves at the final event, Shakedown.

Startups can apply via the website: www.portxl.org