The water sports gear industry in Benelux has evolved into a vibrant sector addressing the needs of enthusiasts who seek adventure on the water. Companies range from manufacturers of canoes, sailing equipment, and surfboards, to brands that specialize in high-performance wetsuits and protective gear. Noteworthy progress in technology has led to innovation in materials and product design, making gear more user-friendly and eco-conscious. Industry players are now focusing on sustainable practices and digital engagement, ensuring that they resonate with a growing clientele eager for sustainable and accessible water sports experiences.


The investors in this list represent a mix of corporate and private equity firms, primarily located in Belgium and the Netherlands. Each has roots dating back several decades, with varying sizes from small startups to large corporations. In 2024, their transactional activity reflected significant engagement, particularly through targeted investments in companies like Onak Canoes and strategic transactions in the synthetic ropes sector. This engagement reveals their shared commitment to supporting innovation within the water sports gear space, effectively bolstering the industry's future.


Top 7 Water Sports Gear Investors in Benelux


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. The EIC also provides business acceleration services, networking opportunities, and prizes to foster innovation across different sectors. Among its notable transactions, the EIC has invested in Evoy, a Norwegian startup that raised €7.3 million for developing electric inboard and outboard systems, which are crucial for modern water sports. Additionally, Evoy received multiple grants from EIC, highlighting the council's commitment to supporting innovative solutions in the water sports gear sector. Another investment includes Innomar Ocean Technology, which raised funds for its ventures, further indicating EIC's engagement in technologies that could impact water sports.


2. Cobepa

  • Website: cobepa.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Brussels, Brussels, Belgium
  • Founded year: 1957
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 2
  • LinkedIn: cobepa

Cobepa is a private equity investment company based in Brussels, Belgium, founded in 1957. The firm specializes in providing investment management and strategic support to enhance the growth and sustainability of its partner businesses. Cobepa operates with a permanent capital base, allowing it to invest across a diverse range of industries. Notably, Cobepa has been involved in transactions such as the acquisition of Princess Yachts International, which raised an undisclosed amount in 2008, indicating their engagement in the water sports gear sector. Additionally, they have made significant investments in companies like Vegro and Gerflor Group, although these are not directly related to water sports. Overall, Cobepa's investment strategy encompasses various sectors, with some involvement in water sports through Princess Yachts.


3. The CoFoundry

  • Website: thecofoundry.co
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Antwerp, Flanders, Belgium
  • Founded year: 2015
  • Headcount: 1-10
  • LinkedIn: 10085265

The CoFoundry is a startup incubator and investment firm based in Antwerp, Flanders, Belgium, founded in 2015. They focus on funding and supporting entrepreneurs in building sustainable businesses, providing tailored coaching and access to a rich ecosystem of partners to help startups navigate growth and funding challenges. Notably, The CoFoundry has been involved in significant transactions such as the seed round investment in Onak Canoes, which specializes in water sports gear, specifically canoes. Additionally, they participated in a funding round for Small Teaser, although this company does not directly relate to water sports. Their engagement with Onak Canoes highlights their interest in the water sports sector, making them a relevant investor in this field.


4. Committed Capital


Committed Capital is a private equity investment company based in Amsterdam, founded in 2016. The firm collaborates with experienced entrepreneurs to maximize business potential, focusing on Dutch SMEs with proven business models and strong growth ambitions. They provide strategic, operational, and financial support to facilitate growth. Among their notable transactions, they have invested in Mr. Marine, a company that operates within the water sports gear industry, as well as other ventures like Platinum and Hydropack, which, while not directly related to water sports, showcase their diverse investment portfolio. Their engagement with Mr. Marine highlights their potential interest in the water sports sector.


5. Bekaert

  • Website: bekaert.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Zwevegem, Flanders, Belgium
  • Founded year: 1880
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 1
  • LinkedIn: bekaert

N.V. Bekaert S.A. is a steel manufacturer specializing in steel wire transformation and coatings, serving various industries including automotive and construction. Founded in 1880 and headquartered in Zwevegem, Flanders, Belgium, Bekaert operates globally with a workforce of 28,000 employees. In 2024, Bekaert made a significant move by acquiring BEXCO nv, a leading player in synthetic ropes for offshore energy production, for €40 million. This acquisition is part of Bekaert's growth strategy to enhance its offerings in synthetic offshore lifting and mooring solutions, particularly in the emerging floating offshore wind industry. The acquisition of BEXCO, which generated revenues of €40 million in 2023, is expected to create synergies and improve profit margins, showcasing Bekaert's commitment to expanding its portfolio in areas that intersect with water sports gear.


6. Sioen Industries

  • Website: sioen.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Ardooie, Flanders, Belgium
  • Founded year: 1960
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • LinkedIn: sioen-industries

Sioen Industries is a corporate investor based in Ardooie, Flanders, Belgium, specializing in technical textiles and protective clothing. Founded in 1960, the company has established itself as a leader in providing innovative and high-quality textile solutions across various industries, including transportation, construction, and public safety. A significant transaction that highlights Sioen's relevance in the water sports sector is their acquisition of Dimension-Polyant, a prominent sailcloth manufacturer, for €38 million in July 2016. This acquisition not only expanded Sioen's product offerings but also positioned them within the water sports gear market, as sailcloth is a critical component for sailing and other related activities. With a focus on innovation and quality, Sioen Industries serves businesses that require reliable textile solutions, including those in the water sports industry.


7. Revo Capital

  • Website: revo.vc
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Amstelveen, North Holland, Netherlands
  • Founded year: 2013
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 8
  • LinkedIn: revo-capital

Revo Capital is a venture capital firm based in Amstelveen, North Holland, founded in 2013. The firm specializes in investing in early-stage technology startups across Turkey, Eastern Europe, and the Baltics. Revo Capital not only provides capital but also offers growth support services, including strategic guidance, market analysis, and talent acquisition, to help entrepreneurs navigate their business challenges and achieve successful growth. Notably, Revo Capital led a $7.4M Series A funding round for Zizoo, a company described as a 'booking.com for boats', which raised funds to expand into new markets, develop products, and recruit talent. This investment highlights Revo Capital's engagement in the water sports sector, making them a relevant player in this industry.



Water Sports Gear Insights: Key Investors in Benelux


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
European Innovation Council (EIC)Brussels, Brussels, Belgium201-500195857
CobepaBrussels, Brussels, Belgium11-5019572
The CoFoundryAntwerp, Flanders, Belgium1-1020150
Committed CapitalAmsterdam, North Holland, Netherlands11-5020160
BekaertZwevegem, Flanders, Belgium10001+18801
Sioen IndustriesArdooie, Flanders, Belgium1001-500019600
Revo CapitalAmstelveen, North Holland, Netherlands11-5020138


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