The startup pitch competition organised by Yachting Ventures will return during Metstrade 2026 in Amsterdam, offering early-stage companies from the leisure marine and superyacht sectors the opportunity to present to investors, industry specialists, corporate partners and media.
Applications are now open, and can be made online.
The session is scheduled for Wednesday 18 November 2026 from 12.30pm to 1.15pm: moving from its previous final-day slot to a lunchtime position on day two of the show.
Since its launch in 2023, the competition has become part of the Metstrade Startup Programme. Previous editions have attracted investor interest and supported discussions between founders and industry stakeholders, alongside wider networking activity at the show.
A networking session follows the pitch competition from 1.15pm to 1.45pm. Drinks and refreshments will be served on the catering terrace next to the theatre, giving attendees a space to continue conversations in a more informal setting.
“Moving the competition to Wednesday lunchtime allows us to create a bigger moment around the event and attract an even larger audience,” says Gabbi Richardson, founder of Yachting Ventures. “The dedicated networking session afterwards gives founders more time to connect with investors, partners and industry professionals, helping to turn conversations into meaningful relationships and future opportunities.”
The competition forms part of the wider Metstrade Startup Programme, delivered by Yachting Ventures in partnership with Metstrade, which brings together emerging companies and includes dedicated exhibition areas such as the Leisure Marine Startup Area and Superyacht Startup Area.
Details and how to participate
Startups pitch to a panel of investors and industry experts, with entries assessed on factors such as innovation, market opportunity, traction, scalability and potential industry impact.
The winning startup receives a promotional package designed to support visibility and growth within the marine sector. Prizes include potential investment, an interview with Ben Taylor Media, promotion across Metstrade and Yachting Ventures channels, and a discounted exhibition stand at Metstrade 2027.
There is a participation fee of €350 per startup. Priority is given to companies already exhibiting within the Metstrade Startup Programme, though a limited number of additional places may be offered to selected startups from the wider industry.
Metstrade 2026 runs from 17 to 19 November 2026 at the RAI Convention Centre in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. The Superyacht Forum takes place on 16 to 17 November 2026 at the same venue.
Visitor registration for Metstrade 2026 is now open.
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