The marine surveying industry in the DACH region encompasses a range of services aimed at assessing and monitoring maritime assets and environments. Companies in this sector include those specializing in logistics, environmental protection, and maritime safety, providing solutions such as underwater inspections and cargo management. With the industry's growing focus on sustainability and advanced technology, major shifts are underway, driving demand for innovative surveying methods, including drones and AI. The future promises increased integration of digital tools, heightening the importance of marine surveying to ensure compliance and operational efficiency in trade and shipping activities.


This list features 17 notable investors in the DACH marine surveying sector, including corporate giants and venture capital firms. Operating from cities like Zurich, Hamburg, and Munich, these investors vary by size, year of establishment, and investment strategy. Some have robust deal counts, such as Partners Group with 19 investments in 2024, while others focus on early-stage funding. Their collective activities highlight a vibrant investment scene supporting emerging technologies and services that align with the future needs of the marine surveying industry.


Top 17 Marine Surveying Investors in DACH


1. Sgs

  • Website: sgs.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
  • Founded year: 1878
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 5
  • LinkedIn: sgs

SGS S.A. is a leading testing, inspection, and certification company founded in 1878, headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland. With a workforce of over 10,000 employees, SGS operates globally, providing independent services to ensure product quality and compliance across various industries. Notably, SGS has made strategic acquisitions to enhance its service offerings in the marine surveying context, including the acquisition of Ecotecnos, a Chilean company specializing in sea monitoring and oceanography services, for CHF 2.5 million in May 2022. This move aligns with SGS's strategy to expand its Industries & Environment offerings. Additionally, SGS has a diverse portfolio that includes environmental and materials testing services, which can also be relevant to marine surveying activities.


2. Partners Group

  • Website: partnersgroup.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Baar, Zug, Switzerland
  • Founded year: 1996
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 19
  • LinkedIn: partners-group

Partners Group Holding AG is a prominent investment management firm based in Baar, Zug, Switzerland, specializing in private equity, private infrastructure, private real estate, and private debt. Founded in 1996, the firm manages over USD 149 billion in assets and is recognized for its innovative approach and commitment to sustainability. Among their notable transactions, Partners Group has acquired North Star, a UK operator of specialized vessels for emergency response and offshore wind maintenance services, aiming to enhance their capabilities in offshore infrastructure. Additionally, they have acquired ROSEN Group, a European engineering firm that specializes in testing oil and gas assets, further indicating their engagement in sectors that intersect with marine surveying. These strategic acquisitions highlight Partners Group's active role in industries relevant to marine surveying, showcasing their diverse investment portfolio.


3. MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company


Mediterranean Shipping Company S.A. (MSC) is a logistics company specializing in shipping and transportation services, founded in 1970 and based in Geneva, Switzerland. With over 10,000 employees, MSC operates globally, providing tailored logistics solutions across various industries. In recent years, MSC has made significant investments in the marine sector, including the acquisition of Boluda Towage, a port towage services subsidiary, and Rimorchiatori Mediterranei, an Italian towage operator, both of which are critical for marine operations and often require marine surveying services. Additionally, MSC's acquisition of a 49% stake in Moby, a major European shipping company, and its earlier acquisition of Grandi Navi Veloci further demonstrate its commitment to expanding its maritime capabilities. These transactions highlight MSC's strategic focus on enhancing its marine service offerings, which are closely linked to marine surveying activities.


4. Hapag-Lloyd AG

  • Website: hapag-lloyd.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
  • Founded year: 1847
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 1
  • LinkedIn: hapag-lloyd-ag

Hapag-Lloyd AG is a prominent shipping company based in Hamburg, Germany, specializing in container shipping and logistics services. Founded in 1847, the company operates a large fleet of vessels and provides comprehensive logistics solutions to businesses engaged in global trade. In recent years, Hapag-Lloyd has made strategic investments to enhance its terminal and infrastructure capabilities. Notably, in January 2023, they acquired a 35% stake in J M Baxi Ports & Logistics Limited, with plans to increase their shareholding, emphasizing their focus on terminal operations in India. Additionally, in September 2021, they announced the acquisition of a 30% stake in Container Terminal Wilhelmshaven and 50% of Rail Terminal Wilhelmshaven in Germany. Furthermore, in August 2023, Hapag-Lloyd acquired the port terminals and logistics businesses of the SAAM Group in Latin America, covering multiple countries. These transactions highlight Hapag-Lloyd's commitment to expanding its operational footprint in the marine logistics sector, which is closely linked to marine surveying activities.


5. TecPier

  • Website: tecpier.vc
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
  • Founded year: 2018
  • Headcount: 1-10
  • LinkedIn: tecpier

TecPier GmbH & Co. KG is a venture capital firm based in Hamburg, Germany, founded in 2018. The firm specializes in investing in early-stage B2B technology startups within the maritime, logistics, and supply chain sectors. TecPier provides funding and support to help these startups develop innovative solutions and technologies that address the needs of businesses in these industries. Notably, TecPier has participated in several relevant transactions, including OceanScore, which focuses on tracking emissions from the global shipping fleet, and Harbor Lab, which offers shipping disbursement analysis software. These investments highlight TecPier's commitment to advancing technology in the maritime sector, making them a significant player in the marine surveying landscape.


6. Sictic

  • Website: sictic.ch
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
  • Founded year: 2014
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • Number of deals in 2024: 77
  • LinkedIn: sictic

SICTIC is a not-for-profit organization based in Zurich, Switzerland, that connects smart money investors with innovative Swiss early-stage technology startups. Founded in 2014, SICTIC provides investment opportunities, networking events, and educational resources to facilitate the growth of startups and the investment community. Among its notable transactions, Sictic has invested in Hydromea, which raised funds in both 2019 and 2021. Hydromea specializes in underwater robotics and surveying solutions, making it a key player in the marine technology sector. Additionally, Sictic has been involved in other technology startups, such as Drone Harmony, which focuses on 3D flight planning, and Composite Recycling, indicating a diverse investment portfolio that includes innovative technologies potentially applicable to marine surveying.


7. Atlantic Labs

  • Website: atlanticlabs.de
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Berlin, Berlin, Germany
  • Founded year: 2013
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 13
  • LinkedIn: atlantic-labs

Atlantic Labs is a venture capital firm based in Berlin, Germany, founded in 2013. The firm is dedicated to supporting exceptional, mission-driven founders throughout their entrepreneurial journey. They invest in startups across various sectors, including climate tech, AI, and digital health, providing both capital and strategic guidance to help these businesses grow. Notably, Atlantic Labs has been involved in significant transactions such as their investment in zero44, a Berlin-based SaaS startup that raised €2.5M to develop software for CO2 management of merchant ships. This investment highlights their engagement in the marine industry, particularly in areas that relate to environmental sustainability and compliance, which are crucial aspects of marine surveying. Additionally, they have participated in other funding rounds that, while not directly related to marine surveying, demonstrate their active role in supporting innovative technologies.


8. Alpana Ventures

  • Website: alpana-ventures.ch
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
  • Founded year: 2016
  • Headcount: 1-10
  • Number of deals in 2024: 1
  • LinkedIn: alpana-ventures

Alpana Ventures is a venture capital firm based in Geneva, Switzerland, founded in 2016. The firm specializes in digital transformation and invests in startups across various sectors, including technology and healthcare. Alpana Ventures provides funding and strategic consulting to help entrepreneurs navigate the challenges of launching and scaling their businesses. Notably, they have participated in funding rounds for Sinay, a maritime tech company, which raised significant capital in 2023 and 2024. This involvement highlights their interest in the marine sector, particularly in technologies that could enhance marine surveying and related fields. Additionally, Alpana Ventures has invested in other innovative startups, indicating a broad interest in 'Deeptech' solutions that may intersect with marine surveying applications.


9. Nabtesco Technology Ventures


Nabtesco Technology Ventures is a corporate venture capital firm based in Zurich, Switzerland, founded in 2018. The firm specializes in strategic investments in industrial-technology start-ups globally, providing financial support and business development resources to enhance growth in various sectors, including robotics and artificial intelligence. Notably, Nabtesco has participated in significant funding rounds for companies like Sea Machines Robotics, which raised $12 million for developing autonomous control systems for maritime vessels, and SpotLight, which raised $6.68 million in a Series A round. These transactions highlight Nabtesco's commitment to advancing technologies that have direct applications in the marine surveying industry, showcasing their relevance in this sector.


10. Ananda Impact Ventures

  • Website: ananda.vc
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Munich, Bavaria, Germany
  • Founded year: 2010
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 6
  • LinkedIn: anandaventures

Ananda Impact Ventures is an impact investment firm based in Munich, Bavaria, Germany, founded in 2010. The firm specializes in supporting early-stage companies that aim to create significant social and environmental impact across various sectors, including healthcare, education, and sustainability. In 2025, Ananda Impact Ventures made a notable investment in Ocean Ledger, which raised $900,000 in a Pre-Seed round, indicating their engagement in marine surveying technologies. Additionally, they have invested in NatureMetrics, which focuses on environmental monitoring, raising $25 million in Series B and $15 million in Series A funding. These transactions highlight Ananda's commitment to supporting innovative solutions that can contribute to marine and environmental sustainability, making them a relevant player in the marine surveying investment landscape.


11. Verve Ventures

  • Website: verve.vc
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
  • Founded year: 2010
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 25
  • LinkedIn: investiere-venture-capital

Verve Ventures is a Zurich-based venture capital firm founded in 2010, specializing in deep tech investments across Europe. The firm focuses on providing funding and strategic support to science and technology startups, particularly in sectors such as climate tech, industrial technology, and health & bio. In 2023, Verve Ventures participated in significant funding rounds for companies like Flyability, which raised funds for its drone technology that is applicable in various inspection scenarios, including marine environments. Additionally, they invested in Wingtra, a Swiss-based VTOL drone manufacturer that secured $22 million in Series B funding to enhance its global operations, with potential applications in marine surveying. Their portfolio also includes ANYbotics, a robotics startup focused on inspection solutions, further emphasizing their commitment to technologies that can be leveraged in marine surveying contexts.


12. EquityPitcher Ventures

  • Website: equitypitcher.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
  • Founded year: 2016
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 7
  • LinkedIn: equitypitcher.com

EquityPitcher Ventures is a Zurich-based venture capital firm founded in 2016, specializing in early-growth investments in startups primarily from the DACH region. The firm provides capital, advisory services, and networking opportunities to entrepreneurs, helping them navigate the challenges of growth and development. Their investment focus spans various industries, including FinTech, HealthTech, and Cybersecurity. Recently, they have participated in significant funding rounds for companies like Wingtra, a Swiss-based VTOL drone manufacturer that raised $22 million in Series B funding to enhance its global operations, and ANYbotics, a robotics startup that raised $60 million in Series B funding to scale its robotic inspection solutions. These investments highlight EquityPitcher Ventures' commitment to supporting innovative technologies that could have applications in marine surveying, particularly through the use of drones and robotics for inspection and monitoring tasks.


13. xista science ventures

  • Website: xista.vc
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Klosterneuburg, Lower Austria, Austria
  • Founded year: 2017
  • Headcount: 1-10
  • Number of deals in 2024: 3
  • LinkedIn: ist-cube

xista science ventures is a venture capital firm based in Klosterneuburg, Lower Austria, founded in 2017. The firm specializes in investing in visionary science start-ups across Europe, providing funding, mentorship, and support to help founders transition from scientific projects to commercial ventures. Their investment portfolio includes a focus on life sciences, software, and hardware industries. Notably, xista led a pre-seed funding round for subdron GmbH, which specializes in autonomous underwater navigation and data processing for advanced underwater inspections, raising €1.3M in July 2023. This investment highlights xista's engagement in the marine surveying sector, as subdron's technology is directly applicable to underwater inspections, a key component of marine surveying. Additionally, they have invested in nista.io, although the specifics of that investment do not directly relate to marine surveying.


14. Palfinger Ag

  • Website: palfinger.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Bergheim, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
  • Founded year: 1932
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • LinkedIn: palfinger

Palfinger AG is a corporate investor based in Bergheim, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, founded in 1932. The company specializes in manufacturing cranes and lifting equipment, providing a wide range of products including knuckle boom cranes, service cranes, and marine equipment. Their offerings enhance operational efficiency and safety in heavy lifting applications across various sectors, including construction, mining, and municipal services. Notably, Palfinger has made significant acquisitions in the marine sector, such as the 75% acquisition of Ned-Deck Marine B.V. in 2010, which specializes in manufacturing rescue boat davits, and the acquisition of Bergen Group Dreggen in 2012, further expanding their product range into ship-mounted cranes. These strategic moves highlight Palfinger's commitment to enhancing their capabilities in the marine industry, making them a relevant player in the marine surveying context.


15. OTI Greentech AG

  • Website: oti.ag
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Zug, Zug, Switzerland
  • Founded year: 2006
  • Headcount: 1-10
  • LinkedIn: oti-greentech-ag

OTI Greentech AG is a corporate investor based in Zug, Switzerland, founded in 2006. The company specializes in providing innovative chemical solutions and cleaning services tailored for the maritime, infrastructure, and oil & gas industries. Their product offerings include marine chemicals and sustainable cleaning solutions, which are essential for businesses operating in these sectors to maintain effective and environmentally compliant operations. Notably, OTI Greentech has made strategic acquisitions, such as UNIservice SAFETY srl in February 2016 and Uniservice Unisafe Srl in October 2016, enhancing their capabilities and global distribution in the maritime sector. These transactions reflect their commitment to expanding their influence and operational capacity within industries that intersect with marine surveying needs.


16. Speedinvest

  • Website: speedinvest.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Vienna, Vienna, Austria
  • Founded year: 2011
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 45
  • LinkedIn: speedinvest

Speedinvest is a venture capital firm based in Vienna, Austria, founded in 2011. The firm specializes in funding early-stage tech startups across Europe, providing both capital and hands-on support to help these companies scale their operations. Speedinvest has a diverse investment portfolio that spans various technology sectors, including Deep Tech, Fintech, and SaaS. Notably, they have invested in Harbor Lab, a Greece-based startup that raised €6.1 million for its shipping disbursement analysis software, indicating their engagement in the marine sector. This investment aligns with marine surveying as it involves technology that aids in shipping logistics and analysis. Additionally, Speedinvest's extensive network of industry experts allows them to assist their portfolio companies effectively, enhancing their potential impact in the marine surveying industry.


17. Swisscom Ventures


Swisscom Ventures is a venture capital firm based in Zurich, Switzerland, founded in 2007. The firm specializes in investing in high-potential technology startups across various sectors, including AI and Fintech. Notably, Swisscom Ventures has been involved in several funding rounds for Flyability, a Swiss drone startup that focuses on indoor drone inspections. Flyability raised significant amounts in Series C and Series B funding rounds, with the latest being $15,357,445 in September 2022 and $11,000,000 in November 2018. The funding is aimed at product development and expanding their inspection capabilities, which are directly applicable to marine surveying. Additionally, Swisscom Ventures has invested in ANYbotics, which also develops robotic solutions that could have applications in marine environments. This track record of investing in companies that leverage technology for inspection and monitoring purposes makes Swisscom Ventures a relevant player in the marine surveying sector.



Marine Surveying Insights: Key Investors in DACH


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
SgsGeneva, Geneva, Switzerland10001+18785
Partners GroupBaar, Zug, Switzerland1001-5000199619
MSC Mediterranean Shipping CompanyGeneva, Geneva, Switzerland10001+19704
Hapag-Lloyd AGHamburg, Hamburg, Germany10001+18471
TecPierHamburg, Hamburg, Germany1-1020180
SicticZurich, Zurich, Switzerland201-500201477
Atlantic LabsBerlin, Berlin, Germany11-50201313
Alpana VenturesGeneva, Geneva, Switzerland1-1020161
Nabtesco Technology VenturesZurich, Zurich, Switzerland1-1020185
Ananda Impact VenturesMunich, Bavaria, Germany11-5020106
Verve VenturesZurich, Zurich, Switzerland11-50201025
EquityPitcher VenturesZurich, Zurich, Switzerland11-5020167
xista science venturesKlosterneuburg, Lower Austria, Austria1-1020173
Palfinger AgBergheim, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany10001+19320
OTI Greentech AGZug, Zug, Switzerland1-1020060
SpeedinvestVienna, Vienna, Austria51-200201145
Swisscom VenturesZurich, Zurich, Switzerland11-5020074


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