Over the last 6 years, driven by the need to better understand our oceans, there has been an increase in the number of blue technology startups, successful blue technology “exits”, and investors who are now considering “blue” investments. The Blue Venture Forum will serve as a platform to connect this ecosystem through targeted programming, matchmaking, and partnering opportunities.

The BVF wants to particularly thank the Van Beuren Charitable Foundation (vBCF), the Greater Newport Area Chamber of Commerce, and DTN Ventures for their support.

Until recently, Blue Tech startups typically grew through bootstrapping and non-dilutive funding, such as SBIRs, and it was almost unheard of to have an outside investor involved. Today, however, the industry is witnessing a wave of interest and investment activity from individual, Angel, and institutional investors, such as Venture Capital (VC) and Private Equity. Founders need help to better understand the nuances of when and how to work with an equity investor and investors need a better understanding of the scope and scale of this sector. Learn how, and why, Dive Technologies pursued Venture Capital Funding and successfully secured more than $7 million in funding.