Yachting Ventures returns to IBEX 2026 to host start-up pavilion in Tampa

Yachting Ventures returns to IBEX 2026 to host start-up pavilion in Tampa © IBEX

Following another successful year at the International BoatBuilders' Exhibition & Conference (IBEX), Yachting Ventures is pleased to announce its return to Tampa, Florida this October to host the fourth installment of the IBEX Start-Up Pavilion 2026, building on the momentum and success of previous editions.

Taking place at the Tampa Convention Center from 6-8 October 2026, the pavilion will once again provide a dedicated platform for emerging leisure marine companies to showcase their technologies, products and solutions to an audience of OEMs, boatbuilders, dealers, distributors, investors and marine decision-makers.

Returning to the same, high-traffic location directly outside the first floor exhibition hall, the Start-Up Pavilion has quickly established itself as a key destination for innovation at the show, offering participating companies increased visibility, direct access to senior stakeholders and opportunities to engage with investors, media and commercial partners.

The 2025 edition of the pavilion welcomed a diverse group of startups spanning software, advanced manufacturing, clean technology and boating services, demonstrating the breadth of innovation emerging across the recreational marine industry.

Participating companies included Cohesive Robotics, developing AI-enabled automation for manufacturers; iWarranty, a platform digitizing warranty management and repair services; OceanVault, focused on marine asset security; BoatPlanet, connecting boaters with marine service professionals; Doubledash, creator of pontoon trailer outriggers; 3D-BOATS, offering immersive digital boat visualization technology; and Neptune-PV, developing portable solar power solutions for marine applications.

Several participating startups reported valuable commercial introductions, increased visibility and stronger engagement with the North American market following the event, reinforcing IBEX's growing role as a gateway for marine startups looking to scale in the U.S.

Jorge Moreno, CCO of 3D-BOATS, commented on his experience as a participant in the 2025 edition, "Being part of the Yachting Ventures cohort at IBEX was a game-changer for 3D Boats. Gabbi and her team provided us with a strategic platform and an immediate sense of credibility that is hard to build alone.

By hosting us in their booth, Yachting Ventures facilitated high-level introductions that have directly accelerated our entry into the North American market and connected us with the industry's most influential stakeholders. We couldn't have asked for a better gateway into the US marine tech ecosystem."

In 2026, Yachting Ventures plans to build on that success with an expanded program featuring curated networking opportunities, increased visibility for exhibitors and the return of its Start-Up Pitch Competition, offering fundraising companies the chance to pitch live to a panel of investors and industry experts.

Last year's competition brought together stakeholders from across Florida's investment and marine innovation ecosystem, providing founders with direct feedback, investor exposure and valuable commercial introductions.

"We're excited to be returning to IBEX for another year and continuing to build on what has quickly become a valuable platform for marine innovation in North America," said Gabbi Richardson, founder of Yachting Ventures. "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."

"We're thrilled to have Yachting Ventures bringing the Start-Up Pavilion to IBEX once again in 2026," said Mary Velline, IBEX Show Director. "The Pavilion has become an exciting destination for emerging marine innovation, and the return of the Start-Up Pitch Competition adds another dynamic layer to that experience. The Competition gives high-potential companies a meaningful spotlight while offering attendees, and potential investors, a first look at products and ideas that could help shape the future of the marine industry. We're looking forward to another year of the great energy this program brings to the Show."

IBEX continues to play an important role in Yachting Ventures' global events portfolio, helping startups connect with new markets, customers and commercial opportunities through curated activations at leading marine trade shows.

Applications for the IBEX Start-Up Pavilion 2026 are now open and will be reviewed on a rolling basis. More information on the package and pricing can be found here, and interested startups can apply here.

IBEX is scheduled to return to the Tampa Convention Center, with IBEX 2026 Show dates set for October 6-8, 2026. For more information, visit www.ibexshow.com.