Portconnectors: Unlocking Growth Through Strategic Connections in the Port Region
At Upstream Festival, startups met their match – through superconnectors and regional collaboration.
The most powerful innovations don’t emerge in isolation. They grow through connections between people, sectors, and cities. That was the driving force behind Portconnectors, a high-impact side event of this year’s Upstream Festival.
Together with Port of Rotterdam, PortXL, Platform Zero, YES!Delft, InnovationQuarter, and iTanks, we created a dynamic space where startups in the energy and maritime sectors could do what they do best: ask boldly, connect smartly, and scale purposefully.
How It Worked
Startups took the stage to pitch one critical ask—something that could shift the trajectory of their business. Superconnectors—individuals with vast, high-level networks—answered with introductions. Real ones. Immediate ones.
We’re talking C-level introductions, including a director from Unilever and even the mayor of Stockholm.
These weren’t just feel-good moments. They were:
- Precise, personalized support
- Industry-specific matchmaking
- Regional strengths in action
Why This Matters
When the right people meet at the right time, growth happens. Faster. Smarter.
- Startups in a crucial phase got high-leverage contacts
- Corporates got a direct view into emerging solutions
- Partners showcased the collaborative strength of the port region
This is what a connected innovation ecosystem looks like: agile, focused, and ready to deliver.
What We Learned
- Founders thrive when they can ask for exactly what they need
- Superconnectors are the secret sauce behind startup acceleration
- Regional collaboration isn’t just a tagline—it’s a tangible engine of growth
Huge Thanks
To every startup that pitched with clarity, to each connector who gave generously, and to all our co-organizers who made this possible—thank you.
Together, we’re not just building startups.
We’re building the future of this region.
As an accelerator, Buccaneer Delft proudly supports innovative companies in the ever-evolving energy & maritime sectors. We are committed to helping sustainable ideas grow, and transform into commercial products and solutions, serving as a bridge between the existing industries and innovations. Our community impacts the energy transition with technological innovations transforming the industry. Learn more about our accelerator services.