Episode 75: Investing in Maritime Innovation with Nir Gartzman
Guest: Nir Gartzman, Co-Founder and Managing Partner at theDOCK
Episode Overview:
- Introduction to theDOCK:
- Founded in 2017 as a vertical Venture Capital firm.
- Focuses on maritime, supply chain, and offshore sector technologies.
- Among the earliest in maritime venture funding alongside Maersk Ventures and PSA.
- Investment Philosophy:
- Emphasis on digital-native talent.
- Importance of early investment before industry-wide recognition.
- Statistics and Achievements:
- Reviewed over 1,000 startups and met 500 groups in person.
- Funded 16 startups, highlighting the selectiveness in investment.
- Unique Approach to Founders:
- Backing founders with high talent density who may not typically hire someone like Nir.
- Cross-Pollination in Venture Capital:
- Interactions with other venture capital firms entering the maritime space.
- Cooperative efforts with competitive funds to foster innovation.
- Strategic Fundraising:
- Advantages of raising funds in a lower interest rate environment.
- Ensuring continued funding for portfolio companies amidst a more scarce funding landscape.
- Industry Growth and Collaboration:
- Increase in vertical funds from 2 to 45 since theDOCK's inception.
- Co-investment with competitive funds as evidence of market demand.
- Innovative Projects:
- Mimicking natural carbon absorption.
- Automating port tasks traditionally done by humans.
Special Mention:
For more information on theDOCK and their projects, visit theDOCK.
Tune in now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more! Watch the episode on YouTube.
Music by: Peg and The Rejected 'King of SKA'
Artwork by: GA Design
Produced by: Chris Aversano
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This episode is sponsored by Njord, powered by Maersk Tankers.
Join Njord for their next webinar featuring several fantastic panelists as they discuss Wind-Assisted Propulsion Systems (WAPS). This takes place on June 25th, 1000 CEST. Register here.
