Ashdod Port and the Israel National Cyber Directorate Launch Open Call for Cyber Startups to Protect the Global Maritime Supply Chain

Ashdod Port, together with the Israel National Cyber Directorate, is issuing a new open call inviting cyber-focused startups to propose technologies and solutions for securing ports and the global maritime supply chain. Selected companies will be able to conduct real-world pilot programs operating directly inside Ashdod Port and within its international innovation environments. The final deadline for submission is December 27, 2025.

This initiative addresses the rapidly growing need to protect advanced maritime operational environments that increasingly rely on automation, digitization, and artificial intelligence. Cyber attacks can disrupt navigation systems, logistics platforms, operational workflows, and other critical systems that form essential links in the global trade ecosystem. Startups selected for the program will gain access to real operational environments, data, and strategic support, along with the possibility of equity investment from the Blue Ocean CVC technology fund, estimated together with partner funds at approximately 455 million USD.

As ports worldwide adopt robotics, AI, and remote operations, cyber threats have the potential to harm crane operation systems, vessel identification and AIS services, logistics scheduling platforms, autonomous aerial systems, OT and ICS infrastructures, and data integrity across international trading networks. The new cyber track aims to create an integrated defensive layer that strengthens port resilience, national infrastructure, and the global maritime supply chain.