Elizabeth Chan (Neptune Robotics): 10 Key Things You Must Know

Overview

Elizabeth Chan is a prominent figure in the field of maritime technology and environmental sustainability, best known as the Co-Founder and CEO of Neptune Robotics. Neptune Robotics is a Singapore-based company revolutionizing the maritime industry through the deployment of AI-powered underwater robots designed to clean ships' hulls. This innovative technology not only improves fuel efficiency but also significantly reduces carbon emissions, supporting global efforts toward maritime decarbonization. Elizabeth Chan’s unique blend of expertise in economics, finance, and technology, along with her drive to transform an age-old industry, has placed her and her company at the forefront of a green maritime revolution. This article explores her journey, the technology her company has pioneered, and its broader impact on shipping and environmental sustainability.

1. Elizabeth Chan’s Background and Education

Elizabeth Chan holds a Master of Arts and Bachelor of Arts with Honors in Economics from the University of Cambridge, where she studied from 2010 to 2013. Her rigorous academic training laid a strong foundation in economics and finance, fields that underpin the business strategy of Neptune Robotics. Prior to founding Neptune Robotics, Chan gained experience in finance and health care technology, equipping her with diverse skills including project management and financial analysis. This combination of academic and professional expertise has been instrumental in navigating the challenges of launching a technology startup within the maritime sector.

2. Founding Neptune Robotics and Entrepreneur First

In 2018, Elizabeth Chan co-founded Neptune Robotics alongside partners Jacky Im and Kate Ma, during their time at Entrepreneur First, a renowned startup incubator. The company developed AI-powered underwater robots that automate the laborious and hazardous task of cleaning ship hulls. Starting as a small team, Neptune Robotics has grown rapidly, scaling from just three founders to over 60 employees, focusing on rigorous prototyping and innovation to meet the stringent demands of maritime operations.

3. Innovative Technology: Underwater Robots for Hull Cleaning

Neptune Robotics develops cutting-edge autonomous underwater robots capable of removing biofouling — organic matter such as algae, barnacles, and seaweed — from ships' hulls. This buildup increases drag, reducing fuel efficiency and increasing greenhouse gas emissions. The robots use cavitational water jet technology that cleans hulls without damaging their surface coatings, which are vital for ship durability. This underwater cleaning can withstand strong ocean currents up to 4 knots, a leading capability in the robotics hull cleaning industry.

4. Impact on Maritime Fuel Efficiency and Emissions

A 2022 study co-authored by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) noted that a thin biofouling layer on half of a ship’s hull can increase emissions by up to 30%. By effectively managing biofouling, Neptune Robotics’ technology reduces fuel consumption, resulting in substantial emissions reductions. This provides shipowners not only ecological benefits but also significant economic savings through decreased fuel costs. Elizabeth Chan emphasizes that robotic hull cleaning is a scalable and immediate solution to maritime decarbonization.

5. Series B Funding and Global Expansion

In September 2025, Neptune Robotics announced a $52 million Series B funding round led by Granite Asia, with strategic investment from Japanese shipping giant NYK Line. This substantial capital infusion is powering Neptune's global expansion, enabling the company to scale its operations and continue innovating. The funding underlines confidence from the maritime industry and investors in the potential of robotic solutions to transform ship maintenance and sustainability worldwide.

6. Operational Capabilities and Geographic Reach

Neptune Robotics operates across more than 50 ports and anchorages globally, with a strong presence in critical shipping routes such as the China-Singapore corridor. Elizabeth Chan highlights the importance of standardizing high-quality robotic hull cleaning services across major maritime hubs to ensure consistent environmental and operational benefits. In Singapore, Neptune Robotics has deployed a fleet of six robots capable of servicing around 800 vessels annually, reflecting its commitment to scaling capacity in key shipping markets.

7. Leadership Style and Vision

Elizabeth Chan’s leadership style underscores innovation, collaboration, and environmental responsibility. She combines her economics background with technology to build a company that addresses one of the most pressing environmental challenges in the shipping industry. Her vision is to enable the maritime sector to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 through practical, technology-driven solutions. Her ability to rally together diverse teams and secure strategic partnerships has been critical in advancing Neptune Robotics’ mission.

8. The Role of AI and Robotics in Maritime Sustainability

Under Elizabeth Chan’s guidance, Neptune Robotics leverages artificial intelligence to operate robots autonomously in challenging underwater environments. These AI-driven robots provide precise hull inspection and cleaning around the clock, regardless of weather or water clarity. This capacity to operate continuously without human divers’ risks enhances safety while accelerating the adoption of green technology across the shipping industry. Neptune Robotics exemplifies how AI can power climate-positive innovations within traditional sectors.

9. Industry Recognition and Partnerships

Neptune Robotics has gained significant recognition from industry stakeholders, including strategic partnerships with major shipping companies like NYK Line and endorsement by international organizations focused on sustainability. Elizabeth Chan’s public statements and leadership insight have been featured in outlets such as Bloomberg and TechCrunch, highlighting the company's role in the global decarbonization effort. These partnerships and media coverage elevate Neptune’s profile as a leader in maritime robotics and green innovation.

10. Future Prospects and Challenges

Looking ahead, Elizabeth Chan aims to expand Neptune Robotics’ technology to more ports around the world and to enhance robot capabilities further. The company faces challenges typical of a deep-tech startup, such as scaling operations while maintaining high service quality and dealing with complex marine environments. However, with ongoing investment, strong leadership, and increasing demand for sustainable shipping solutions, Neptune Robotics is poised to grow as a pivotal player in reducing the maritime industry’s carbon footprint.

Conclusion

Elizabeth Chan’s career and accomplishments through Neptune Robotics illustrate the powerful intersection of technology, economics, and environmental stewardship. Her company’s innovative underwater robots are transforming maritime fuel efficiency and emissions management, offering an effective solution to one of the industry's biggest sustainability challenges. As Neptune Robotics expands globally, Chan’s leadership continues to inspire change in the traditionally conservative shipping sector. The future of green shipping looks promising with leaders like Chan steering robotics innovation toward a cleaner, more efficient maritime world.