Yachting Ventures (YV) and European Boating Industry (EBI) are joining forces again to deliver an expanded Startup x Investor Day at boot Düsseldorf 2026.
The day is set to build on the momentum of the previous three years of the collaboration and will enable startups to meet investors face-to-face.
The day will start with a keynote speech from Karl Birgir Björnsson, CEO and co-founder of Hefring Marine who will share insights from his fundraising experiences.
Hefring Marine completed a funding round in May 2024, raising €2.2 million.
In addition, the day will incorporate a pitch competition, where selected startups will showcase their innovations to a panel of investors and reverse pitches, where investors share what they’re looking for.
Innovation and entrepreneurship
“Our Startup x Investor Day is all about breaking down barriers between founders and investors,” said Gabbi Richardson, founder of Yachting Ventures.
“We’re building an open, community-driven space where startups can do more than just pitch — they can gain real insight into what investors are looking for. Our goal is for every founder to leave with genuine, lasting connections that help them grow.”
Philip Easthill, secretary-general of EBI, added: “Innovation and entrepreneurship are at the heart of Europe’s boating sector.
“Through our collaboration with Yachting Ventures for the Blue Innovation Dock at boot Düsseldorf, we aim to connect visionary founders with investors who can help turn their ideas into sustainable growth.”
Five startups will be selected to present their products and solutions to a panel of experienced investors and industry experts, evaluated on uniqueness, market potential, scalability, and sustainability impact.
The Startup x Investor Day will take place on Tuesday 20 January 2026, at the Blue Innovation Dock.
