Starboard Maritime Intelligence (SMI)
Overview
Starboard Maritime Intelligence (SMI) is a technology company specializing in AI-powered maritime domain awareness solutions. Founded in 2019 and headquartered in Wellington, New Zealand, SMI focuses on safeguarding global oceans and critical infrastructure through advanced analytics and real-time threat detection. The company was co-founded by Trent Fulcher, who also serves as its CEO. As of September 2025, SMI has raised over NZ$23 million in Series A funding to expand its global reach and enhance its AI platform.
Recent Developments
- September 2025: SMI raised NZ$23 million in a Series A funding round co-led by Altered Capital, OIF Ventures, and King River Capital. The funding aims to accelerate SMI's expansion into North America, Europe, and the Indo-Pacific regions. This move is critical in strengthening their AI capabilities to counter escalating maritime threats.
- August 2025: SMI partnered with Tampnet to enhance subsea cable protection utilizing a combination of AI-powered maritime intelligence and fibre-optic sensing technologies.
- June 2024: The Environmental Justice Foundation began using SMI's platform to bolster its research into illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing activities.
- April 2024: SMI closed a NZ$5 million seed funding round, supported by investors like Icehouse Ventures and SeaAhead. The funds aim to strengthen analyst support in the Pacific region.
- May 2023: SMI partnered with S&P Global Market Intelligence to enrich its value-added intelligence services targeted at the maritime information sector.
- November 2022: SMI participated in the 17th INFOFISH World Tuna Trade Conference and Exhibition in Bangkok, showcasing its technology's capabilities in global maritime monitoring.
Company Information
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Founding Date | 2019 |
| Headquarters | Wellington, New Zealand |
| Founders | Trent Fulcher |
| Revenue | NZ$4-5 million annually (as of latest reports) |
| Profits | Not publicly disclosed |
| Key Investors | Altered Capital, OIF Ventures, King River Capital |
| Industry | Maritime Security, AI Technology |
| Number of Employees | Approximately 30 |
| Subsidiaries/Products | Maritime Intelligence Platform |
Early History
Starboard Maritime Intelligence was founded in Wellington, New Zealand, in 2019. The company was established with the mission to leverage AI and comprehensive data analytics to enhance maritime security and domain awareness. Initially focusing on monitoring illegal fishing activities in the Pacific, SMI quickly recognized the broader applications of its technology, such as safeguarding subsea infrastructure and enhancing maritime safety. The company's early backers, Altered Capital and other local investors, played a pivotal role in its initial tech and infrastructure development.
Company Profile and Achievements
SMI operates as a subscription-based software service providing advanced maritime domain awareness. Its platform combines multiple data sources, including AIS (Automatic Identification System), satellite imagery, radar, and oceanographic data, to deliver real-time insights. Some key milestones:
- 2019: Company founded in Wellington, New Zealand.
- 2020-2021: Development and initial deployment of its AI-powered platform for maritime surveillance.
- 2023: Expanded its client base to over 30 countries, providing services for governments, defense agencies, and commercial operators.
- 2024: Successfully closed a significant seed funding round, expanding its analytical capabilities and market footprint, especially in the Pacific.
- 2025: Notably raising NZ$23 million to enhance global expansion, exemplifying its growth trajectory and leading innovation in maritime risk management.
Current Operations and Market Position
Currently, SMI stands as a leader in maritime AI solutions, monitoring over 840,000 km of subsea cable infrastructure and processing 1 billion maritime data points daily. The company has solidified its competitive advantage through:
- Comprehensive Data Integration: Combining AIS, satellite imagery, sensor data, and advanced analytics to offer a unique real-time threat detection system.
- Global Reach: Trusted by clients in more than 30 countries, it holds substantial market share in maritime surveillance.
- Strategic Partnerships: Collaborating with notable corporations, enhancing product offerings, and securing crucial global partnerships.
- Competitive Edge: SMI focuses on broad-spectrum solutions addressing multiple maritime security requirements, setting it apart from competitors that might concentrate on niche areas.
Starboard Maritime Intelligence Jobs
As SMI expands, it continually seeks professionals passionate about maritime technology and analytics. The company emphasizes a positive work environment that values curiosity, creativity, and impact. Regular job openings are available for data analysts, software developers, and security experts.
Starboard Maritime Intelligence Wellington
Starboard Maritime Intelligence is headquartered in Wellington, New Zealand. The location leverages New Zealand's strong maritime history and geographical advantage in the Pacific region, fostering collaboration with local and international maritime security agencies.
Conclusion
Starboard Maritime Intelligence has grown to become a crucial player in the maritime security industry. With its innovative AI platform and strategic partnerships, SMI is well-positioned to address evolving maritime threats on a global scale. As the company expands into new markets, its comprehensive solutions promise to set the standard in maritime domain awareness, paving the way for safer and more secure oceans.