Yachting Ventures and Ocean One Ventures have launched the Summer Fundraising Bootcamp, an accelerator programme for marine startups preparing for fundraising activity ahead of the autumn investment period.
The five-week programme runs from 3 August to 4 September 2026 and is intended for up to 10 early-stage companies operating in the leisure marine sector. It combines fundraising strategy, investor preparation, one-to-one coaching and access to investors.
Applications remain open until 17 July 2026, with the final group of participants expected to be confirmed by 24 July 2026.
The programme focuses on getting founders prepared for investment discussions and fundraising. Participants in the bootcamp will work through a structured process covering investment strategy, pitch development, financial modelling, investor outreach, data room preparation and due diligence processes.
Alongside group workshops and practical exercises, founders will receive individual coaching from the Yachting Ventures and Ocean One Ventures teams.
Startup Zone at Genoa Boat Show part of collaboration
As part of a collaboration between Yachting Ventures and the Genoa Boat Show, programme participants will receive priority access to the show’s Startup Zone. Companies taking part will have an opportunity to exhibit alongside other marine businesses during the event, which takes place from 1-6 October 2026.
The Startup Zone forms part of a wider area focused on innovation and emerging businesses. Startups, universities, training organisations and developing talent are expected to take part, creating opportunities for networking and business discussions across the leisure marine sector.
“We speak to founders every day who are building exciting businesses but struggling to navigate the fundraising process,” says Yachting Ventures founder Gabriella Richardson.
“This programme is designed to give startups the tools, structure and investor access they need to raise capital more effectively, while creating accountability and momentum through a focused five-week sprint.”
Untapped potential in maritime leisure
Dietlind Wittig, co-founder of Ocean One Ventures, adds: “As someone who came to this industry through sailing, I’ve seen first-hand how much untapped potential exists in maritime leisure – and how few structured pathways there are for founders to turn that potential into fundable businesses.
“Programmes like this are exactly what the next generation of marine-industry founders need: real investor access, real feedback, and real momentum, in time for the autumn raise.”
Applications will be reviewed by representatives from Yachting Ventures and Ocean One Ventures, together with an independent advisory board made up of investors, founders and industry specialists.
The Summer Fundraising Bootcamp is open to hardware and software startups operating within the leisure marine sector. It is intended for founders planning to raise investment during the second half of 2026 or early 2027, while also looking to strengthen their investor proposition and broaden industry contacts.
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