BlueInvest Investor Report shows increase in blue economy investments

The BlueInvest Investor Report 2024 reveals a significant increase in blue economy investments.

According to the findings, an investment ecosystem to support blue economy innovation is emerging, with the BlueInvest initiative driving this development.

Five key insights on the blue economy investments landscape in the EU:

1. The volume of disclosed investments in the blue economy has significantly increased. It is 3 times larger than it was 10 years ago, reaching more than €13 billion over the five-year period between 2018 to 2023.

2. Since 2018, the number of deals in the blue economy has increased

• about 270 deals have been closed every year in the blue economy
• at least 30 private equity/venture capital funds are focused on blue economy deals, and the number is growing

 This trend indicates a positive outlook and a strong growth pattern for the sector.

3. 75% of European blue economy deals occur within the EU, with half of the investors coming from non-EU countries.

This shows how EU companies create substantial business opportunities that attract investors from other regions.

4. In terms of the number of deals, mergers and acquisitions represent about 38%, followed by early-stage equity investments (34%), ahead of growth-equity investments (11%), and grants (7%).

This suggests a limited average level of maturity of the blue economy sector overall, particularly given the relatively modest amounts being invested into growth-stage companies.

5. The 3 most dynamic sectors are blue renewable energy, blue tech and ocean observation, and aquaculture.

At the other end of the spectrum, sustainable coastal and maritime tourism as well as environmental protection and regeneration have closed fewer deals.

BlueInvest Investor Report 2024