The shipbuilding industry in Europe is a vital sector focused on designing and constructing a wide array of vessels, from commercial tankers to luxury yachts. Major companies in this field include shipyards, engineering firms, and technology providers, all contributing to innovations in sustainability and efficiency. Notably, the focus has shifted toward smarter, eco-friendly ships, addressing the industry's environmental impact amidst rising global shipping demands. The trend of digitalization is also changing operations, integrating advanced technologies like automation and AI. As the market adapts, shipbuilders are expected to enhance their capabilities to meet evolving economic and regulatory challenges.


Investors in Europe's shipbuilding industry exhibit a mix of corporate and venture capital profiles, with a presence in key locations like London, Stockholm, and Helsinki. The investment sizes range from small firms with only a handful of employees to major corporations with thousands. Established between 1814 and 2015, these investors have actively engaged with the industry, showcasing a varied number of deals in 2024, such as Bpifrance's notable 198 transactions and EQT Group's 30 investments. Their strategic interests highlight a commitment to advancing maritime technology and addressing future market needs.


Top 16 Shipbuilding Investors in Europe


1. European Innovation Council (EIC)


The European Innovation Council (EIC) is a public entity based in Brussels, Belgium, established to support innovation and entrepreneurship across Europe. Founded in 1958, the EIC offers various funding programs, including the EIC Accelerator and EIC Pathfinder, aimed at helping startups and SMEs develop and scale their technologies. In recent years, the EIC has been involved in significant transactions within the maritime sector, notably funding bound4blue, a technology developer specializing in automated wind-assisted propulsion systems for maritime transport. In 2023, bound4blue raised EUR 15.9 million in a Series A funding round, with participation from the EIC Fund, and previously received grants totaling EUR 6.5 million from the EIC Accelerator Program. Additionally, the EIC has supported Wavefoil, a company focused on innovative solutions for maritime applications. These transactions highlight the EIC's commitment to fostering innovation in the maritime and shipbuilding sectors, making it a relevant investor in this space.


2. Bpifrance French Tech Accélération


Bpifrance French Tech Accélération is a public entity and financial institution based in Paris, Île-De-France, France, founded in 2015. It supports entrepreneurs and businesses in France and internationally through a variety of services, including direct funding, export credit insurance, and private equity investments. Bpifrance aims to foster entrepreneurship and innovation, helping businesses navigate growth and international expansion. In recent years, Bpifrance has been involved in several significant transactions relevant to the shipbuilding industry, including a Series B investment of approximately $20.3 million in OceanWings, a company focused on innovative sailing solutions, and a Series A investment in TEMO, a French company specializing in electric motors for boats, which raised €6 million to enhance its product range and expand internationally. These investments highlight Bpifrance's commitment to supporting advancements in maritime technology and shipbuilding.


3. Scottish Enterprise


Scottish Enterprise is a public entity established in 1991, focused on economic development in Scotland. It provides a range of services including funding, business development advice, and support for innovation and exports. In 2024, Scottish Enterprise was involved in 55 investments, showcasing its active role in fostering business growth. Notably, it has participated in significant transactions within the maritime sector, such as a £1.35 million investment in Smart Green Shipping and grant funding for Tymor Marine to develop innovative maritime technology. These activities highlight its commitment to enhancing Scotland's economic landscape, particularly in industries related to shipping and maritime technology.


4. Katapult

  • Website: katapult.vc
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Oslo, Oslo, Norway
  • Founded year: 2017
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 8
  • LinkedIn: katapult-accelerator

Katapult is an impact investment firm based in Oslo, Norway, founded in 2017. They specialize in supporting tech startups that tackle global challenges through investment, accelerator programs, and mentorship. Katapult has been involved in several relevant transactions, particularly in the shipbuilding context, such as their investment in ShipReality, which raised $150,000 in a seed round in February 2019. This investment highlights their commitment to supporting innovative solutions within the maritime sector. Additionally, they have engaged with companies like Hullbot and Triton Anchor, which may also have implications for shipbuilding and maritime technology. Overall, Katapult's focus on ocean-tech and related sectors positions them as a relevant player in the shipbuilding investment landscape.


5. Bgf

  • Website: bgf.co.uk
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 2011
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 53
  • LinkedIn: bgfinvestments

BGF Investment Management Limited is a venture capital firm founded in 2011, based in London, England. The firm specializes in providing growth funding and value creation support to small and mid-sized businesses in the UK and Ireland. BGF addresses the funding gap in the market through minority investments and extensive support services. Notably, BGF has been involved in transactions relevant to the shipbuilding industry, such as its investments in ROVOP, a UK-based subsea ROV services company. BGF has committed significant funding to ROVOP, enabling the company to expand its fleet and enhance its operational capabilities. Additionally, BGF's investment in Ocean Crest Marine further highlights its engagement in the maritime sector. These transactions demonstrate BGF's active role in supporting businesses that contribute to the shipbuilding and marine industries.


6. Wärtsilä

  • Website: wartsila.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Helsinki, Uusimaa, Finland
  • Founded year: 1834
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • LinkedIn: wartsila

Wärtsilä Corporation, founded in 1834 and based in Helsinki, Finland, is a corporate investor specializing in innovative technologies and lifecycle solutions for the marine and energy markets. With a workforce of over 10,000 employees, Wärtsilä provides a range of products including power plants and marine engines, focusing on sustainability and efficiency. The company has made significant investments in the shipbuilding sector, including the acquisition of Vik-Sandvik for $169.9 million, which enhances its ship design capabilities for high-end offshore vessels. In 2011, Wärtsilä acquired Hamworthy to strengthen its position in offshore and marine gas applications. Furthermore, the acquisition of Eniram in 2016 for EUR 43 million allowed Wärtsilä to enhance its digital offerings in energy management for the marine industry. Additionally, the acquisition of Ships Electronic Services Ltd in 2019 aimed to improve service capabilities in the UK marine market. These strategic acquisitions demonstrate Wärtsilä's commitment to advancing technology and solutions within the shipbuilding industry.


7. Fincantieri

  • Website: fincantieri.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Trieste, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Italy
  • Founded year: 1959
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 4
  • LinkedIn: fincantieri

Fincantieri S.p.A. is a leading shipbuilding company based in Trieste, Italy, founded in 1959. The company specializes in the design and construction of commercial and military vessels, serving both government and private sector clients. Fincantieri is recognized for its strong focus on innovation and sustainability in the maritime industry. Notable transactions include the acquisition of Chantiers de l’Atlantique, a significant French shipbuilder, which is currently under assessment by the European Commission due to potential competition concerns in the cruise ship market. Additionally, Fincantieri acquired STX Canada Marine, now known as VARD Marine, enhancing its naval architecture and marine engineering capabilities. They also entered into a collaboration with Genova Industrie Navali to strengthen their position in the luxury cruise ship construction market. Furthermore, Fincantieri's acquisition of Remazel Engineering and a majority stake in Isselnord demonstrates their strategic focus on enhancing their naval services and defense sector presence. These transactions underscore Fincantieri's active role and investment in the shipbuilding industry.


8. HitecVision

  • Website: hitecvision.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Stavanger, Rogaland, Norway
  • Founded year: 1985
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: hitecvision

HitecVision is a private equity investment firm based in Stavanger, Norway, founded in 1985. The firm specializes in the European energy sector, focusing on providing institutional capital to energy production and infrastructure projects with an emphasis on sustainability and the energy transition. HitecVision manages private equity funds and collaborates with various stakeholders to drive growth in renewable energy and related industries. Notable transactions include the acquisition of Global Maritime in 2012, which operates in the maritime sector, and the acquisition of Suretank Group in 2013 for €35 million, a company that provides storage equipment for the offshore oil and gas industry. Additionally, HitecVision has invested in Aluminum Offshore and Emtunga Solutions AB, further indicating their involvement in sectors that intersect with shipbuilding and maritime operations.


9. Almi

  • Website: almi.se
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
  • Founded year: 1994
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • Number of deals in 2024: 7
  • LinkedIn: almi-ab

Almi AB is a financial services company based in Stockholm, Sweden, founded in 1994. It specializes in providing loans, risk capital, and business development support to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Sweden, aiming to enhance their growth and competitiveness through tailored financial solutions. Among its notable transactions, Almi has invested in TBS Yard, a company involved in shipbuilding, and Marstrom Composite, which specializes in composite materials that can be used in the construction of boats and ships. Other investments include I-Tech, Qtagg, and Uddcomb International, which, while not directly related to shipbuilding, showcase Almi's diverse investment portfolio. The company's engagement in the shipbuilding sector through specific investments suggests a potential interest in this industry, despite its broader focus on various sectors.


10. 3i Group plc

  • Website: 3i.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 1945
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • Number of deals in 2024: 3
  • LinkedIn: 3i-group-plc

3i Group plc is a London-based private equity and infrastructure investment firm founded in 1945. The firm specializes in providing capital and expertise to mid-market companies, helping them grow sustainably. With a strong international presence and a diverse portfolio, 3i Group aims to create value for its stakeholders through strategic investments. Among its notable transactions, 3i Group acquired Nova Rodman, a company involved in the design and construction of boats, in 2004, and Esvagt, which provides services to the offshore industry, in 2015. Additionally, their investment in Clyde Marine plc, a company that operates in the marine sector, further highlights their engagement in maritime-related investments. These transactions reflect 3i Group's commitment to the shipbuilding and maritime industries, positioning them as a relevant investor in this field.


11. EQT Group

  • Website: eqtgroup.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
  • Founded year: 1994
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 30
  • LinkedIn: eqt-partners

EQT Group is a prominent investment firm based in Stockholm, Sweden, specializing in private equity, infrastructure, real estate, growth equity, and venture capital. Founded in 1994, EQT serves institutional investors by managing diverse investment portfolios across multiple sectors and geographies. Notably, EQT has been involved in several transactions that intersect with the maritime and shipbuilding sectors. For instance, the acquisition of Bergen Engines AS in 2013 and Rolls-Royce Power Systems in 2006 highlights their interest in companies that provide critical technology and services to the marine and energy sectors. Furthermore, their acquisition of Eagle Marine Services in 2017, which operates a significant container terminal, underscores their engagement in maritime logistics. These transactions reflect EQT's strategic positioning within industries that support shipbuilding and maritime operations, making them a relevant player in this space.


12. Maven Capital Partners

  • Website: mavencp.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 2009
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 25
  • LinkedIn: maven-cp

Maven Capital Partners is a private equity firm based in Glasgow, Scotland, founded in 2009. The firm specializes in providing growth capital and investment solutions to small and mid-sized businesses across various sectors, including technology and healthcare. Notably, Maven has made significant investments in the maritime industry, including Fletcher Shipping, which raised over $8.5 million in 2013 and $6.4 million in 2012, indicating a strong interest in shipping operations. Additionally, they have invested in ROVOP, a company involved in remotely operated vehicles, which are often used in offshore and maritime applications. These transactions highlight Maven's capability and interest in supporting businesses within the shipbuilding and maritime sectors, alongside their broader investment strategy.


13. Aboa Venture III Ky


Aboa Venture III Ky is a private equity firm based in Turku, Southwest Finland, founded in 1994. The firm specializes in providing equity financing solutions to Finnish businesses with revenues between 2-20 million euros, focusing on acquisitions and growth investments. Aboa Venture has been involved in several significant transactions in the shipbuilding sector, including the acquisition of Uudenkaupungin Työvene in January 2015 and participation in a private equity round for Rauma Marine Constructions in December 2015. Additionally, they have invested in companies like Steerprop Ltd and Navix Oy, which, while not exclusively shipbuilding firms, are related to maritime technology and services. This diverse portfolio showcases Aboa Venture's commitment to supporting small to medium-sized enterprises, particularly those in the shipbuilding and maritime industries.


14. Wilhelmsen group


Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA, founded in 1861 and based in Lysaker, Akershus, Norway, is a leading maritime services company that provides a comprehensive range of services including port operations, ship management, and solutions for energy transition. The company plays a crucial role in the maritime industry by helping customers manage their fleets and logistics efficiently while addressing environmental challenges. Notably, Wilhelmsen has been involved in several significant transactions that highlight their commitment to the shipbuilding and maritime sectors. For instance, they recently announced the acquisition of Zeaborn Ship Management, which includes a fleet of 100 vessels, aimed at strengthening their market presence in ship management. Additionally, their acquisition of an 80% stake in Ahrenkiel Tankers, which will be rebranded as Barber Ship Management, marks their re-entry into the tanker market. These transactions, along with their ongoing efforts to enhance their technical management capabilities, underscore their active role in the shipbuilding and maritime services landscape.


15. Indutrade Life Science

  • Website: indutrade.se
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
  • Founded year: 1978
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 14
  • LinkedIn: indutrade-life-science

Indutrade Life Science is a corporate investor based in Stockholm, Sweden, founded in 1978. The company is part of an industrial group that focuses on developing and acquiring companies with high technical expertise across various technology and industrial sectors. Indutrade emphasizes long-term relationships with its customers and operates through a decentralized structure, allowing its subsidiaries to maintain independence while benefiting from the group's resources. Notably, Indutrade has made strategic acquisitions that enhance its portfolio in the marine sector, including the acquisition of Precision Products, a supplier of piston rings to the marine engine industry, which underscores its commitment to the shipbuilding sector. Other acquisitions, while not directly related to shipbuilding, reflect Indutrade's strategy of building clusters of niche companies with specialized capabilities, further supporting its relevance in industries that require advanced engineering solutions.


16. Ldc

  • Website: ldc.co.uk
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 1981
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 15
  • LinkedIn: ldc

Lloyds Development Capital (Holdings) Limited, commonly known as LDC, is a private equity firm based in London, England, that specializes in providing growth capital and strategic support to mid-market businesses across various sectors. Founded in 1981 and part of Lloyds Banking Group, LDC focuses on fostering long-term partnerships to drive business success through investment and advisory services. In recent years, LDC has made significant investments in the maritime sector, including a notable investment in Idwal Marine Services to enhance its technology platform and expand its global service footprint. Additionally, LDC's acquisition of Cleveland Containers, a supplier of shipping containers, further underscores its commitment to supporting growth in the shipping industry. These transactions highlight LDC's strategic interest in the maritime and shipbuilding sectors, aligning with their broader investment strategy.



Shipbuilding Insights: Key Investors in Europe


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
European Innovation Council (EIC)Brussels, Brussels, Belgium201-500195857
Bpifrance French Tech AccélérationParis, Île-De-France, France1-102015198
Scottish EnterpriseGlasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)1001-5000199155
KatapultOslo, Oslo, Norway11-5020178
BgfLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)51-200201153
WärtsiläHelsinki, Uusimaa, Finland10001+18340
FincantieriTrieste, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Italy10001+19594
HitecVisionStavanger, Rogaland, Norway51-20019850
AlmiStockholm, Stockholm, Sweden201-50019947
3i Group plcLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)201-50019453
EQT GroupStockholm, Stockholm, Sweden1001-5000199430
Maven Capital PartnersGlasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)51-200200925
Aboa Venture III KyTurku, Southwest Finland, Finland1-1019940
Wilhelmsen groupLysaker, Akershus, Norway10001+18610
Indutrade Life ScienceStockholm, Stockholm, Sweden1001-5000197814
LdcLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)51-200198115


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