Startup pitch competition returns to IBEX 2025
Yachting Ventures has confirmed it will once again partner with the International BoatBuilders’ Exhibition & Conference (IBEX) to host the second Startup Pitch Competition in Tampa, Florida, following its initial edition in 2024.
The event is scheduled to take place on Wednesday 8 October from 4.00 to 5.30pm on the main stage of the International BoatBuilders’ Exhibition and Conference (IBEX), which runs from 7 to 9 October 2025.
The pitch competition is aimed at startups operating in the marine sector and offers an opportunity to present products and concepts to investors, potential partners and other industry stakeholders. The session will feature four to five companies selected by Yachting Ventures. Startups featured in the IBEX Startup Pavilion — also hosted by Yachting Ventures — will be prioritised for selection.
The Pavilion will again host 12 startups and provide a platform to demonstrate technologies and services. It serves as a point of access for early-stage businesses seeking exposure in the US recreational marine market and the wider industry. The competition is designed to support investment readiness and encourage feedback from marine professionals and investors.
Tampa has been ranked by Forbes as the second-best US city for young entrepreneurs, and local investors will be included on the judging panel. Startups will be assessed based on originality, market opportunity, scalability and alignment with marine applications.
“We’re looking forward to hosting our second pitch competition at IBEX and seeing what talent takes to the stage this year,” said Gabbi Richardson, founder of Yachting Ventures. “We’re assembling a strong panel of judges and are pleased to once again offer early-stage companies a platform to connect with the US marine industry and gain valuable feedback from investors and industry professionals.”
“The Startup Pitch Competition is fast-paced, high-impact, and packed with fresh thinking,” IBEX show director Mary Velline said. “It gives emerging companies a chance to pitch to real investors—and gives attendees a unique look into how the startup and venture capital world operates. It’s an engaging, eye-opening experience that brings a new kind of energy to the show.”
Startups currently seeking investment are invited to apply. The winner of the pitch competition will be considered for potential funding and media coverage through IBEX and Yachting Ventures platforms. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis by the Yachting Ventures team.
Further information is available at the Ibex website. Pitching enquiries should be directed to Gabriella Richardson.
