PortXL is the first start-up accelerator programme designed for the Port of Rotterdam
Damen has announced that it will be one of the partners in PortXL, the first start-up accelerator programme specifically designed for the Port of Rotterdam. The goal of the project is to remain Rotterdam as the worlds smartest and most innovative port.
The ambitious World Port Accelerator start-up support programme, which is due to be launched March 2016, aims to strengthen Rotterdams port innovation environment. Interested start-ups can apply at www.portxl.org. In addition, the participating maritime companies have the option to recommend start-ups too.
The Rotterdam Port Authority and the participating companies having teamed-up in this close co-operation, unleash a wealth of sources to the start-ups. More than 150 mentors and over 200 investors, corporate partners and sponsors are at their disposal. PortXL offers start-ups the fertile environment to give their passion and energy a kick-start within three months. This backing will allow them to chart both new markets and the game changer arenas; two vibrant areas that are essential for the sustainable growth of the Rotterdam port economy.
We will wholeheartedly support this programme, hoping that start-ups that are relevant to our business will emerge from it, Damen CEO René Berkvens comments.
We will coach and supervise the Maritime Industries cluster, one of a total of four sectors, in addition to Transport & Logistics, Energy and the Petrochemical industry. We will furthermore assess a number of start-ups ourselves. This will give us a better view of what drives future entrepreneurs and will provide close input about developments of potential interest to Damen Shipyards Group. The most important element, however, is that through our participation were able to contribute to the continued development of the Dutch maritime industries.
