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Following a successful debut last year, Yachting Ventures is once again partnering with the International BoatBuilders’ Exhibition & Conference (IBEX) to host the second edition of the Start-Up Pavilion in Tampa, Florida.
The pavilion will cater to emerging companies in the leisure marine industry, providing a dedicated platform to showcase their innovations, technologies, and solutions to a global audience.
Set to return to the Tampa Convention Center from 7-9th October, 2025, IBEX is North America’s leading B2B marine industry trade show. With a growing reputation for innovation, an ever-diversifying exhibitor base, and increasing international interest, the 2025 edition is expected to draw more than 700 exhibitors and 8,000+ industry professionals from across the recreational marine supply chain.
Florida is fast becoming a hotspot for start-up activity, with Tampa Bay emerging as a thriving tech hub. Ranked by Forbes as one of the best places to launch a tech career, the region’s mix of marine heritage, entrepreneurial support, and investor presence makes it an ideal backdrop for the Start-Up Pavilion.
Recognising the vital role that early-stage innovation plays in shaping the future of boating, Yachting Ventures and IBEX have renewed their partnership to once again spotlight breakthrough technologies, and software solutions in leisure marine with a dedicated Start-Up Pavilion.
The curated space will showcase 12 hand picked leisure marine start-ups offering them direct exposure to OEMs, boatbuilders, and key decision-makers, as well as access to media coverage and investor interest. The pavilion will be located in a central location, directly outside of the exhibition hall, with high footfall from attendees.
The three day showcase also features a live pitch competition, where five selected companies will present their vision to a panel of investors and industry stakeholders.
“We’re excited to be back at IBEX for 2025,” said Gabriella Richardson, founder of Yachting Ventures. “Last year confirmed the appetite in the US for marine innovation, and Tampa is proving to be a fantastic gateway for leisure marine start-ups looking to break into the American market.”
“IBEX is all about driving marine innovation forward, embracing new technologies, fresh thinking, and the next generation of ideas,” said Mary Velline, Show Director of IBEX.
“The Start-Up Pavilion and Pitching Competition reflect our Fast Forward theme by spotlighting the entrepreneurs and breakthroughs that will shape the future of boating,” added Mary.
With a proven format already rolled out at METSTRADE and now IBEX, Yachting Ventures continues to expand its global reach by helping founders in the leisure marine and yachting space connect with new markets and unlock commercial opportunities.
The IBEX 2025 Start-Up Pavilion offers a cost-effective and impactful route for start-up companies to enter the US marine market, with access to a powerful network of industry players, and investors, with an added opportunity to increase their exposure and visibility.
Applications are now open and will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Interested participants can apply via this form.
The deadline to apply is 14th July 2025.
For more information, visit: www.ibexshow.com
