The European Boating Industry (EBI), alongside network accelerator Yachting Ventures, officially opened applications on 3 November 2026 for the annual Startup x Investor Day. The event will anchor the Blue Innovation Dock at boot Düsseldorf on 26 January 2027, serving as the flagship early-stage venture capital hub for European marine tech.
The pitch day provides a direct pipeline for startups advancing electric propulsion, autonomous docking, software, and sustainable composite manufacturing to present to global venture funds. Reflecting a tighter global investment climate, organisers have introduced a pre-screening selection process and a £550 participation fee for chosen finalists to ensure a concentration of commercially viable technologies.
Alongside founder pitches, the 2027 edition features “reverse pitches,” where institutional investors lay out their fund mandates directly to entrepreneurs. Jack Molyneux, founder of marine software firm IDOSY, will deliver the keynote address detailing capital-raising strategies in challenging macroeconomic conditions.
The platform offers a direct gateway for international founders—including New Zealand marine technology ventures in smart rigging, propulsion, and digital systems—seeking capital, European distribution, or manufacturing partners.
Applications close on 4 December 2026, with selected finalists expected to be announced before Christmas ahead of the January pitch showcase in Germany.
