Rotterdam-based Shipping Technology, a maritime industry innovator, has received investment from First Dutch and the founders of Platform Zero. This financial backing is set to accelerate the company’s growth and innovation in enhancing maritime safety, sustainability, and efficiency. The focus remains on expanding their digital solutions and integrated hardware-software products, which are already making significant strides in the market.
Shipping Technology has been at the forefront of introducing digital tools to the maritime sector. The company, founded in 2018, has developed the ST BRAIN system, which integrates nautical data to improve navigation, safety, and operational efficiency. This technology has been a game-changer, evident from the widespread adoption by over 250 vessels. In comparison, previous developments in maritime technology have typically focused more on hardware enhancements rather than the hybrid approach of integrating both hardware and software for a comprehensive solution.
The maritime industry has historically been slow to adopt digital transformation compared to other sectors. The entry of ST BRAIN marks a significant shift towards digitization and automation. Additionally, the company’s ability to offer up to a 50 percent insurance discount for vessels using its technology highlights its practical benefits. These advancements contrast with earlier innovations which lacked such integrated functionality and cost-saving incentives.
An AI-based technology for the maritime industry
Shipping Technology’s ST BRAIN system is designed to optimize nautical data, support autonomous sailing, and improve operational efficiency. The system collects data from various nautical equipment and stores it securely in the cloud. This data is then processed by AI-powered apps to enhance control, improve safety, and reduce costs. The ST BRAIN also tracks emissions, providing CO2 and NOx insights through its dashboard.
Founding Partner, Remco Pikaart says, “Currently, the ST BRAIN is installed in more than 250 vessels. In the past years, we’ve not only grown our installed base but also the technology, developing reliable software that makes shipping, especially inland shipping, safer, more sustainable and more efficient.”
Capital utilisation
The recent investment will help Shipping Technology scale up internationally, with a particular focus on the Inland Shipping industry. The company plans to enhance its products based on feedback from early adopters and expand its team to support a growing customer base. The integration of third-party connectivity and API connectors further optimizes fleet performance by connecting with existing management systems.
Pikaart further adds, “Our short-term ambition is to quadruple our installed base in Europe within the next three years. For that, we needed a reliable partner who understands the business and enables us to scale up faster. First Dutch is that partner.”
Brief about the investors supporting Shipping Technology
First Dutch, led by Peter Goedvolk, is known for its investments in clean solutions and infrastructure, emphasizing sustainable progress in the maritime sector. They provide strategic support, industry expertise, and a broad network to drive growth and impact for ventures like Shipping Technology. Partnering with Platform Zero, First Dutch aims to scale climate tech in the energy and maritime sectors.
Ivo Lemmens, Manager of Corporate Development at First Dutch, says, “Shipping Technology is poised to make a significant contribution to both the digitisation and decarbonisation efforts of the industry. Their software enables shipowners to really make that change.”
The synergy between Shipping Technology and its investors is expected to catalyze significant advancements in maritime technology. By leveraging the maritime network and industry expertise of First Dutch, Shipping Technology aims to quadruple its installed base within three years. This growth aligns with the broader market trend towards digitization and environmental sustainability.
