RINA, the global engineering and certification giant, has just flipped the switch on its Singapore Open Innovation Hub, a move that could reshape how maritime tech gets incubated, tested, and scaled. This isn’t just another office opening. It’s a strategic bet on Singapore’s role as the world’s maritime innovation lab—and a challenge to other hubs to step up their game.
The hub, one of seven RINA is rolling out globally, isn’t operating in isolation. It’s plugging directly into Singapore’s ecosystem, from startups to regulators, with a clear mission: turn ideas into deployable tech, fast. Carlo Luzzatto, RINA’s CEO, puts it bluntly: “Innovation at scale, advancing sustainability, and fostering knowledge sharing—that’s how we grow.” Translation? RINA isn’t here to observe. It’s here to disrupt.
Take the Singapore Open Innovation Hub Advisory Committee, launched this week. It’s a who’s who of maritime and tech heavyweights, from policymakers to marine fuel experts, all zeroing in on port digital twins, decarbonisation pathways, and the energy transition. Michael Phoon, the committee’s chair, nails the point: “Innovation thrives when knowledge flows freely.” In other words, silos are out; collaboration is in.
RINA isn’t stopping at talk. It’s backing up strategy with action—and capital. A new MoU with the Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT) will funnel students into RINA’s operations, training the next generation of maritime engineers and inspectors. Meanwhile, a partnership with the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) will establish a technology demonstration centre, a real-world testing ground for smart ships, low-carbon fuels, and digital ports. Ang Wee Keong, MPA’s CEO, calls it a “step in strengthening Singapore’s maritime innovation ecosystem.” That’s diplomat-speak for: watch this space.
Then there’s the startup scene. RINA’s backing the PIER71 Smart Port Challenge, sponsoring awards and judging finals. Why? Because startups are where breakthroughs happen—and RINA wants first dibs on the best ideas. OneCare Group, this year’s Digitalisation award winner, is a case in point. Its tech-driven approach to crew wellness isn’t just innovative; it’s human-centric, addressing a glaring gap in seafarer health. If RINA’s betting on solutions like this, it’s a signal that maritime innovation isn’t just about efficiency. It’s about people.
So what’s next? With RINA’s global reach and Singapore’s regulatory agility, this hub could become the proving ground for technologies that redefine shipping. Imagine port digital twins so precise they predict bottlenecks before they happen, or AI-driven fuel optimisation that cuts emissions without sacrificing speed. The hub’s success will hinge on execution, but if RINA’s track record is any indicator, it’s not just talking. It’s building—and fast.
For the rest of the industry, the message is clear: adapt or fall behind. RINA’s move isn’t just a play for Singapore. It’s a challenge to other hubs to up their game, to collaborate harder, and to innovate faster. The maritime sector is at a crossroads, and RINA’s betting big on Singapore as the roadmap. The question is: who’s following?