The shipbuilding industry in the US is a vital sector that involves the construction and repair of a variety of vessels, including commercial tankers, submarines, and pleasure crafts. A mix of large corporations and specialized firms dominate this field, often providing cutting-edge technology and services such as design, engineering, and retrofitting. The industry continually evolves with trends towards sustainability, electric propulsion, and automation, which are reshaping production and operational methodologies. Interestingly, shipyards are also focusing on innovations in materials and supply chain efficiencies, which further underscores the growing role of technology in maritime construction and repair activities.


This list highlights key investors within the US shipbuilding sector, showcasing a blend of corporate and private equity firms. With headquarters spanning cities like New York, Washington D.C., and San Francisco, these investors vary in size, from large firms with thousands of employees to smaller, more agile teams. These firms, founded between 1976 to 2015, made numerous deals, with some like The Carlyle Group engaging in 25 investments in 2024 alone. This influx of capital into the industry underscores the strategic importance of maritime investments for growth and innovation.


Top 17 Shipbuilding Investors in the US


1. Patrick Industries, Inc.


Patrick Industries, Inc. is a corporate investor based in Elkhart, Indiana, specializing in manufacturing and distributing component products and building materials for the Recreational Vehicles, Marine, Manufactured Housing, and Industrial markets. Founded in 1959, the company has established a strong network of brands and operates across multiple states, providing high-quality materials to manufacturers. In recent years, Patrick Industries has made significant acquisitions to bolster its position in the marine sector, including:1. **Coyote Mfg. Co.** - Acquired on August 9, 2021, this Georgia-based manufacturer of steel and aluminum products enhances Patrick's portfolio in the OEM market and provides additional resources in the marine products sector.2. **Diamondback Marine** - Acquired on May 9, 2022, this acquisition further strengthens Patrick's capabilities in the marine industry.3. **Metal Moulding Corp.** - Acquired on February 20, 2018, this company specializes in custom metal fabricated products for the marine market, indicating Patrick's commitment to supporting shipbuilding activities.4. **Tumacs Covers** - Acquired on August 30, 2021, Tumacs specializes in custom boat covers and marine products, further expanding Patrick's offerings in the marine sector.These transactions highlight Patrick Industries' strategic focus on the marine market, making them a relevant player in the shipbuilding industry.


2. Kkr

  • Website: kkr.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1976
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 74
  • LinkedIn: kkr

KKR & Co. Inc. is a prominent investment firm based in New York, specializing in private equity, credit, infrastructure, and real estate. Founded in 1976, KKR has established itself as a global leader in asset management, providing tailored investment solutions to institutional and individual clients. Among its notable transactions, KKR signed a deal to acquire Hyundai Heavy Industries' A/S arm for $580 million in February 2021, marking a significant investment in the shipbuilding and industrial sector. Additionally, KKR's acquisition of a majority stake in the UK's Acteon Group, a subsea services provider, highlights its engagement in maritime-related industries. These strategic investments reflect KKR's commitment to navigating complex investment landscapes and achieving strong financial returns for its clients.


3. The Carlyle Group

  • Website: carlyle.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Washington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1987
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 25
  • LinkedIn: the-carlyle-group

The Carlyle Group Inc. is a prominent investment management firm founded in 1987, specializing in private equity, real assets, and private credit. With a global presence and a focus on providing tailored investment solutions to institutional investors, Carlyle aims to drive long-term value. Among its notable transactions, Carlyle acquired Vigor Industrial in July 2019, a significant player in the shipbuilding and repair industry, which highlights its commitment to this sector. Additionally, Carlyle's acquisition of a 10% stake in Hyundai Glovis in January 2022, a logistics company, suggests a strategic interest in the supply chain aspects of industries related to shipbuilding. These transactions demonstrate Carlyle's capability and willingness to invest in the shipbuilding industry, making it a relevant investor in this space.


4. Liquid 2 Ventures

  • Website: liquid2.vc
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2015
  • Headcount: 1-10
  • Number of deals in 2024: 91
  • LinkedIn: liquid-2-ventures

Liquid 2 Ventures is a venture capital firm based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2015. The firm specializes in investing in technology startups at the pre-seed and seed stages, as well as growth-stage companies. They provide capital, mentorship, and access to a vast network of industry insiders to help founders navigate their entrepreneurial journeys. Notably, Liquid 2 Ventures has participated in funding rounds for Navier, a Silicon Valley startup that is developing electric boats, raising a total of $7.2 million in seed funding in 2022 and an undisclosed amount in 2021. This involvement highlights their interest in the shipbuilding industry, particularly in innovative and sustainable marine technologies. Additionally, they have invested in other technology-focused companies, but their engagement with Navier is particularly relevant to the shipbuilding context.


5. American Industrial Partners


American Industrial Partners is a private equity firm based in New York, specializing in operationally-oriented investments in industrial businesses. Founded in 2005, AIP focuses on enhancing the performance of its portfolio companies through strategic financial support and operational improvements. Notably, AIP has been involved in significant transactions within the maritime sector, including the acquisition of Rand Logistics, a bulk freight shipping provider in the Great Lakes Region, which highlights their engagement in the shipping industry. Additionally, their acquisition of SEACOR Holdings, a company involved in marine transportation and logistics, further emphasizes their interest in sectors related to shipping and logistics. AIP's strategy of optimizing operations and driving growth aligns with the needs of companies in the shipbuilding and maritime industries, making them a noteworthy player in this space.


6. MarineMax

  • Website: marinemax.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Oldsmar, Florida, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1998
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 1
  • LinkedIn: marinemax

MarineMax is a corporate investor based in Oldsmar, Florida, specializing in the sale of new and used boats, as well as providing maintenance and financing services. Founded in 1998, the company caters to boat enthusiasts and individuals seeking reliable boating solutions. In recent years, MarineMax has expanded its footprint in the marine industry through strategic acquisitions. Notably, in May 2021, MarineMax acquired KCS International, Inc., known as Cruisers Yachts, for $63 million, which is part of their strategy to enhance manufacturing capabilities. In January 2024, they announced the acquisition of Williams Tenders USA for approximately $30 million, further solidifying their presence in the boat manufacturing sector. Additionally, their acquisition of IGY Marinas for $480 million in August 2022, and Midcoast Construction Enterprises, LLC in December 2022, highlights their commitment to diversifying their business within the marine industry, including aspects of construction and marina operations.


7. Gaingels

  • Website: gaingels.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Burlington, Vermont, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2015
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 60
  • LinkedIn: gaingels

Gaingels is a venture capital firm founded in 2015, based in Burlington, Vermont, dedicated to investing in companies with diverse leadership. The firm provides capital and support to startups, particularly those led by underrepresented groups, to foster diversity and inclusion in the innovation economy. In addition to their core mission, Gaingels has participated in various transactions, including a notable investment in Shipfix, a provider of a dry cargo shipping platform, which raised $4.5M in seed funding in December 2019. This investment highlights their engagement in the maritime sector. They have also invested in companies like Impossible Metals, which is developing underwater robotic vehicles for collecting battery metals from the ocean, showcasing their interest in innovative technologies that intersect with maritime activities. Overall, Gaingels combines a commitment to diversity with a willingness to invest in relevant sectors, including shipbuilding.


8. Founders Fund

  • Website: foundersfund.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2005
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 44
  • LinkedIn: the-founders-fund

Founders Fund is a venture capital firm based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2005. The firm specializes in investing in innovative technology companies across various sectors, including aerospace and software development. With a portfolio that includes high-impact companies like SpaceX and Palantir, Founders Fund is known for providing funding and strategic support to startups to help them grow and scale their operations. Notably, they participated in a $15.5 million seed round for Fleetzero, a company focused on electric shipping solutions, highlighting their interest in maritime innovation. Additionally, their investments in Anduril Industries, a defense technology company, further demonstrate their engagement in sectors that may intersect with shipbuilding technologies, particularly in defense and advanced manufacturing.


9. Sustainable Ocean Alliance


Sustainable Ocean Alliance (SOA) is a not-for-profit organization founded in 2014, based in San Francisco, California. It is dedicated to promoting ocean health and sustainability by activating young leaders and providing resources such as grants and mentorship to develop innovative solutions for ocean-related challenges. SOA operates globally, engaging youth and communities to promote environmental conservation and sustainable practices. Notably, SOA has participated in funding rounds for companies like bound4blue, which is developing automated wind-assisted propulsion systems for maritime transport, highlighting its interest in maritime innovations that can enhance sustainability in the shipbuilding sector. Additionally, SOA has been involved with other ventures like Navier and Finsulate, which also focus on maritime technologies, further emphasizing its relevance in the shipbuilding context.


10. Goldman Sachs

  • Website: goldmansachs.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1998
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 59
  • LinkedIn: goldman-sachs

Goldman Sachs is a prominent investment bank and financial services firm founded in 1998, headquartered in New York, New York. The firm provides a wide range of services including investment banking, asset management, and wealth management, catering to a diverse clientele that includes corporations, financial institutions, and individuals. In the context of shipbuilding, Goldman Sachs has been involved in significant transactions such as the $500 million debt financing for Zakher Marine International, which operates in the maritime sector. Additionally, their acquisition of Navico Holding AS, a company focused on marine electronics, highlights their investment interest in the shipbuilding and marine industries. These transactions illustrate Goldman Sachs' capability and willingness to invest in sectors related to shipbuilding, despite their broader investment strategy.


11. Ocean Zero

  • Website: oceanzerollc.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2020
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 1

Ocean Zero LLC is a corporate investment firm based in New York, founded in 2020, that specializes in marine technology solutions aimed at reducing CO2 emissions from shipping and recreational vessels. The firm has made significant investments in innovative technologies, including electric propulsion systems and air-lubrication systems, which are essential for enhancing sustainability in the marine and shipping industries. Notable transactions include leading a funding round for Pascal Technologies, which focuses on air cushion technology for electric boats, and participating in multiple funding rounds for Candela, a Swedish company that produces electric hydrofoils and aims to promote fossil-free transportation on lakes and oceans. Ocean Zero's investments in these companies demonstrate their commitment to advancing technologies that are not only innovative but also critical for the future of shipbuilding and marine sustainability.


12. Soma Capital

  • Website: somacap.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2015
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 41
  • LinkedIn: soma-capital

Soma Capital is a venture capital firm based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2015. The firm specializes in early-stage investments across a diverse range of sectors, including technology and finance. With a portfolio that boasts over 20 unicorns, Soma Capital is dedicated to supporting innovative entrepreneurs and teams. Notably, they have participated in several transactions relevant to the shipbuilding industry, such as their investment in Navier, a startup focused on developing futuristic electric boats, and Impossible Metals, which is working on underwater robotic vehicles for sustainable battery metal collection. These investments highlight Soma Capital's engagement with maritime technology and innovation, complementing their broader investment strategy.


13. Morgan Stanley

  • Website: morganstanley.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1986
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 79
  • LinkedIn: morgan-stanley

Morgan Stanley is a prominent investment bank and financial services firm founded in 1986, headquartered in New York, New York. The firm offers a wide range of services, including wealth management, investment banking, and capital markets, catering to individuals, families, corporations, and governments. With a global presence and a workforce exceeding 10,000, Morgan Stanley leverages its expertise to provide tailored financial solutions. Notably, Morgan Stanley has been involved in significant transactions within the maritime sector, such as the acquisition of the Heidmar Group, which encompasses Houston Marine Services, Inc., indicating a strategic interest in maritime operations. Additionally, they participated in debt financing for The Pasha Group, further showcasing their engagement in the shipping industry. These transactions highlight Morgan Stanley's capability and willingness to invest in the shipbuilding and maritime sectors, making them a relevant player in this field.


14. One Equity Partners

  • Website: oneequity.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2001
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 11
  • LinkedIn: one-equity-partners

One Equity Partners is a private equity firm based in New York, founded in 2001, that focuses on investing in middle market businesses across various sectors, including industrial, healthcare, and technology. The firm aims to build market-leading companies through transformative business combinations and strategic partnerships, providing capital and management expertise to enhance growth. Notably, One Equity Partners has made significant investments in companies relevant to the shipbuilding industry, such as the acquisition of Fortaco Group, a partner in the heavy off-highway equipment and marine industries, and DESMI, a Danish manufacturer specializing in pumping solutions for marine and offshore sectors. Additionally, their acquisition of Acteon Group, which provides offshore services, highlights their commitment to enhancing capabilities in sectors that intersect with shipbuilding. These transactions reflect One Equity Partners' strategic focus on industries that support and complement shipbuilding activities.


15. Chevron

  • Website: chevron.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Houston, Texas, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1999
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 16
  • LinkedIn: chevron

Chevron Corporation is an energy company specializing in oil and natural gas exploration, production, and distribution. Founded in 1999 and based in Houston, Texas, Chevron operates globally, focusing on sustainable practices to meet the world's energy demands. In addition to its core business, Chevron has been actively investing in innovative technologies that intersect with maritime applications. Notably, Chevron Technology Ventures participated in a $12 million funding round for Sea Machines Robotics, which is developing autonomous control systems for maritime vessels. Furthermore, Chevron invested in Ocergy's Series A round, supporting the commercialization of sustainable offshore solutions, including floating foundations and environmental monitoring buoys. These investments reflect Chevron's commitment to advancing technologies that could enhance maritime operations and sustainability, making them a relevant player in the shipbuilding sector.


16. Arlington Capital Partners


Arlington Capital Partners is a private equity firm based in Washington, D.C., founded in 1999. The firm specializes in investment management across regulated industries, including Aerospace & Defense, Government Services, Healthcare, and Business Services. Arlington Capital Partners provides strategic advisory services and manages a diverse portfolio of companies, helping them navigate complex regulatory environments and achieve growth. Notably, they have made significant acquisitions relevant to the shipbuilding industry, such as Pegasus Steel LLC, which specializes in complex fabricated steel structures for naval and industrial systems. This acquisition highlights their engagement in the shipbuilding supply chain. Additionally, their recent acquisitions of Metal Trades and Merrill Technologies Group further demonstrate their active investment strategy in sectors that may support shipbuilding and defense capabilities.


17. 8vc

  • Website: 8vc.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Austin, Texas, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2015
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 62
  • LinkedIn: 8-partners

8VC is a venture capital firm based in Austin, Texas, founded in 2015. The firm operates a job board connecting innovative companies with talent and investment opportunities, supporting businesses across various sectors, including technology and retail. Notably, 8VC has been involved in significant transactions within the maritime industry, particularly with Saronic, a startup developing autonomous ships. 8VC participated in Saronic's Series A funding round, which raised $55 million to enhance research and development for autonomous surface ships and expand manufacturing capabilities. Additionally, 8VC contributed to Saronic's Series B and Series C funding rounds, which raised $175 million and $600 million, respectively. These investments highlight 8VC's active role in the shipbuilding sector, particularly in innovative maritime technologies.



Shipbuilding Insights: Key Investors in the US


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
Patrick Industries, Inc.Elkhart, Indiana, United States (USA)10001+19593
KkrNew York, New York, United States (USA)1001-5000197674
The Carlyle GroupWashington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)1001-5000198725
Liquid 2 VenturesSan Francisco, California, United States (USA)1-10201591
American Industrial PartnersNew York, New York, United States (USA)51-20020058
MarineMaxOldsmar, Florida, United States (USA)1001-500019981
GaingelsBurlington, Vermont, United States (USA)11-50201560
Founders FundSan Francisco, California, United States (USA)11-50200544
Sustainable Ocean AllianceSan Francisco, California, United States (USA)11-5020141
Goldman SachsNew York, New York, United States (USA)10001+199859
Ocean ZeroNew York, New York, United States (USA)11-5020201
Soma CapitalSan Francisco, California, United States (USA)11-50201541
Morgan StanleyNew York, New York, United States (USA)10001+198679
One Equity PartnersNew York, New York, United States (USA)11-50200111
ChevronHouston, Texas, United States (USA)10001+199916
Arlington Capital PartnersWashington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)11-5019994
8vcAustin, Texas, United States (USA)11-50201562


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