Yachting Ventures will launch a new Innovation Zone at the 2025 Southampton International Boat Show (SIBS), organised by British Marine.
The initiative is part of a wider collaboration between the two organisations. It is Yachting Ventures’ first official partnership with a UK boat show, providing a platform to highlight emerging marine technologies.
The 56th edition of SIBS takes place from 19–28 September 2025 and is expected to attract around 100,000 visitors and host over 600 marine brands.
Gabbi Richardson, founder of Yachting Ventures, says: “We’re thrilled to be bringing a dedicated startup space to one of the UK’s most important marine events and to be collaborating with British Marine, who we feel share our vision of supporting innovation in the industry. The Innovation Zone is designed to give emerging companies a powerful platform to connect with the industry, test ideas, and accelerate their growth in a thriving market.”
This year’s Southampton International Boat Show will feature a revised layout and an expanded programme, including The Powerhub, an area dedicated to powerboats, jetskis and water toys.
Innovation Zone for marine startups
The Innovation Zone will operate from 24–28 September and will host 12 startups developing solutions for the marine sector, covering areas such as sustainability, digital technologies, safety innovations and recreational boating products. The Innovation Zone will place new companies alongside established industry brands.
Exhibiting startups will be promoted through a marketing campaign coordinated by Yachting Ventures, which will include pre-show media releases, social media content and individual exhibitor features.
Jasmine Hill, director of events at SIBS organiser British Marine, adds: “The Southampton International Boat Show has always been a showcase for the very best in boating, and the Innovation Zone adds an exciting new dimension for 2025.
“By bringing early-stage companies into the heart of the show, we’re not only giving them valuable exposure but also connecting our visitors with fresh ideas and technologies that have the potential to shape the future of the industry. It’s a great example of how collaboration can open new doors for businesses and inspire the next generation of marine innovation.”
Applications for the Innovation Zone are limited to 12 companies and will be offered initially to members of the Yachting Ventures and British Marine networks before opening to other applicants.
Startups interested in exhibiting at SIBS 2025 are encouraged to apply online or contact Gabriella Richardson for more information
The Southampton International Boat Show is the UK’s largest boating event and takes place annually in the city centre, attracting marine professionals and enthusiasts.
British Marine represents over 1,500 companies in the UK leisure, superyacht and small commercial marine industries, delivering industry standards, training and events. Yachting Ventures is a global network for marine startups and scaleups, offering business development, marketing, fundraising and other growth support services.
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