On 13 November 2025, the SmartPort Summit took place at the World Trade Center Rotterdam, marking the 10-year anniversary of SmartPort.
SmartPort is a public–private innovation platform that connects the Port of Rotterdam Authority, industry partners, the municipality, and leading knowledge institutes such as Erasmus University and TU Delft to accelerate research and innovation for the port of the future.
Key Themes
- The central theme of the summit was “Innovation with Impact” – prioritising value creation not only in economic growth, but also in ecological and societal impact.
- Major transitions formed the core of the programme: energy transformation, digitalisation, circularity, accessibility, and climate adaptation.
Programme Highlights
- Morning: Knowledge sessions featuring the latest SmartPort research projects like logistics with Automated Guided Vehicles and sustainable container logistics.
- Afternoon:
In the afternoon there were two inspiring keynote speeches:- Hans Stegeman (Triodos Bank) discussed redesigning our economy with sustainability as a guiding principle according to systemic principles.
- Jitske Kramer (corporate anthropologist) explored how organisations can navigate profound change together by realizing their cultures and .
- Break-out Sessions: Participants worked hands-on with real innovation cases from the port ecosystem, together with the SmartPort team, the Maritime Sisters, and other partners.
- Celebration Moment: The SmartPort collaboration was officially extended by five more years, securing its continuation until 2031.
- Networking: The event concluded with a networking reception, providing space for reflection and new connections.
Key Statements
- Marlies Sikken, Managing Director of SmartPort, emphasised that port innovation must deliver societal and ecological value alongside economic benefits.
- Vivienne de Leeuw, CFO of the Port of Rotterdam Authority and Chair of SmartPort, highlighted that strong collaboration between government, industry, and knowledge institutions is essential to achieving major port transitions.
Significance for the Future of the Port
- The extension of SmartPort until 2031 reflects a strong, long-term commitment from all partners: Erasmus, Deltalinqs, City of Rotterdam, Port of Rotterdam, TU Delft, TNO, Deltares and Marin.
- By strengthening research, knowledge exchange, and collaboration, SmartPort aims to contribute to a future-proof port.
- The focus on broad value creation underscores the role of the port not only as an economic engine but also as a driver of social and environmental progress.
See the aftermovie via this link.
"IF THE PORT AUTHORITY DOESN’T ACT, COMPANIES WILL HAVE TO DO IT THEMSELVES"
“WE WANT TO ACCELERATE THE MARKET, NOT JUST FOR THE FRONT-RUNNERS, BUT FOR THE ENTIRE INDUSTRIAL ECOSYSTEM”