A new boost for the blue economy: according to the European Commission report BlueInvest Investor Report 2026: The Next Wave of Blue Growth, industries linked to oceans and waterways count a total of 159 funds, with about €3 billion of capital coming from funds fully dedicated to the sector, while about €11 billion derives from investors with partial exposure.
These “blue funds” are no longer isolated realities: they are part of a wider ecosystem that includes venture capital firms, private equity investors and corporate-backed funds.
Many of these operators are not exclusively focused on the ocean, but are increasing investments in start-ups active in the water, climate and sustainable technologies sectors.
Large investors are also entering the sector: private equity funds and corporate investors show growing interest, in particular in areas linked to infrastructure, energy and decarbonisation.
However, the report highlights that, despite progress, the blue economy remains underfunded compared to its potential.
To facilitate investor orientation, the report includes in-depth analyses of the main sectors of the blue economy: aquaculture, fisheries, marine biotechnology, marine renewable energy, ocean technologies, ocean observation, maritime transport, ports and water management.
The BlueInvest Investor Report 2026: The Next Wave of Blue Growth is a publication of the European Commission, based on previous reports published in 2023 and 2024.
The analysis was carried out by PwC Luxembourg on behalf of the European Commission.