Start-Up Pavilion

Start-Up Pavilion

In Collaboration With

Yachting Ventures logo

Back by popular demand, the Start-Up Pavilion returns to IBEX in collaboration with Yachting Ventures. This dedicated showcase highlights emerging companies bringing new technologies, products, and solutions to the recreational marine industry.

Located directly outside the 1st Floor Exhibit Hall, the Start-Up Pavilion has become a must-visit destination for attendees looking to discover the next generation of marine innovation, including advancements in software, AI, clean technology, advanced manufacturing, boating services, and more.

Participating startups gain direct access to OEMs, boatbuilders, dealers, distributors, investors, media, and marine industry decision-makers, while attendees get an early look at products and ideas shaping the future of boating.

Participants will also have the opportunity to compete in the high-energy Start-Up Pitch Competition on the IBEX Main Stage, where companies present live to a panel of investors and industry experts.

The confirmed 2026 participants are:

  • BoatClick
  • Controllable Currents
  • Keraunos
  • Massive Marine
  • TONJO
  • Smooth Technology Company
  • WaterDog Marine
  • ZeaFarer
  • Seasure
  • Deckhand

You can read more here.

Start-Up Pavilion

Yachting Ventures, a global hub for startups in the recreational marine and yachting sectors, will be responsible for identifying and inviting startups that meet the criteria for participation, as well as organizing the live Pitching Competition, in collaboration with the local tech ecosystem in Tampa, FL USA.

“Each year we’ve seen stronger engagement from the US market, increasing investor interest and more appetite from established marine companies to collaborate with startups. For founders looking to gain visibility, build partnerships and better understand the American market, IBEX offers an incredibly valuable entry point”, said Gabriella Richardson, founder of Yachting Ventures.

Who Should Apply?

Start-ups play a vital role in driving forward fresh ideas within the marine industry and developing essential technologies to address pressing global challenges. Florida stands as a prominent hub for burgeoning start-ups and the Tampa Bay area is a rapidly growing tech hub that’s been named by Forbes as one of the Best Emerging Tech Cities and one of the Best Places to Work in Tech according to Yahoo Finance.

For emerging businesses in the marine industry, participation in the IBEX Start-Up Pavilion presents a unique opportunity to gain exposure, access industry networks, and receive valuable feedback from key industry professionals. If you are interested, IBEX and Yachting Ventures presents a cost-effective entry point into the largest recreational marine market in the world and a remarkable opportunity to present your technology or solution to a qualified industry audience.

Participation Requirements

A start-up will be defined as an early-stage company which has an annual turnover of less than $500,000 and/or has been operating commercially for less than 2 years. All potential participants will be sourced by Yachting Ventures and reviewed by the IBEX entry committee. Participation is possible for one time/year only.

Why Participate?

Don’t miss out on this exclusive opportunity to showcase your innovation to 7,500+ qualified industry professionals at IBEX. With only 12 slots available, space is limited and will go quickly. Make sure your start-up is one of the pioneers and thought leaders selected to participate, so you get the chance to meet and inspire the IBEX audience with your technology and concepts.

What’s Included?

  • Pavilion display counter with 2 chairs (See brochure for more info)
  • Company logo & name printed on the counter’s front side
  • Electric: One standard 120-volt electrical drop (up to 5 amps)
  • 2 Exhibit Hall Badges for access to all 3 days of IBEX
  • Discounted Pitching Competition participation fee: $650 $350

IBEX promotion will include:

  • A company/product highlight on the IBEX Start-Up Pavilion webpage
  • Social media promotion across IBEX channels
  • Mention in the Start-Up Pavilion section of the Official Show Guide
  • Promotion of Start-Up Pavilion in IBEX’s marketing campaigns, including emails, website, and other advertising

Applications are open and will be reviewed on a rolling basis. The deadline to apply is July 31st, 2026. The price for participating is $1,995 US dollars (excluding VAT). For any questions, contact Gabbi Richardson at: hello@yachtingventures.co

Apply Now
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