The 2025 Shipbuilding Report analyzes the global sector, focusing on technological advancements and market trends shaping maritime construction’s future. As demand for efficient, sustainable, and digitally-enabled vessels grows, shipbuilders are incorporating new materials, propulsion technologies, and automation to meet the needs of commercial, defense, and energy-related sectors. The report explores key trends, such as developing eco-friendly ships, and integrating smart ship technologies that improve fuel efficiency, navigation, and safety. Increased focus on decarbonization, driven by environmental regulations and the push for sustainability, is also driving investments in green shipbuilding and retrofit solutions for existing fleets. The report examines investment patterns, major companies, emerging startups, and patent activity within the shipbuilding industry.
This shipbuilding industry report serves as a reference for stakeholders within the industry, investors, policymakers, and economic analysts, providing a snapshot of the industry’s health to map its trajectory for innovation and growth in the coming years.
StartUs Insights Shipbuilding Report 2025
- Executive Summary
- Introduction to the Shipbuilding Report 2025
- What data is used in this Shipbuilding Report?
- Snapshot of the Global Shipbuilding Industry
- Funding Landscape in the Shipbuilding Industry
- Who is Investing in Shipbuilding Companies?
- Emerging Trends in the Shipbuilding Industry
- 5 Innovative Shipbuilding Startups
Executive Summary: Shipbuilding Industry Outlook 2025
This report is created using data obtained from the Big Data and AI-powered StartUs Insights Discovery Platform, covering more than 4.7 million global companies, as well as 20K+ technologies and emerging trends. We also analyzed a sample of 300+ shipbuilding startups developing innovative solutions to present five examples from emerging shipbuilding industry trends.
- Industry Growth Overview: The shipbuilding industry faces a slight contraction, with an annual growth rate of -1.37%. Over 6000 companies are engaged in shipbuilding activities worldwide.
- Manpower & Employment Growth: The global workforce in the industry exceeds 830000, with over 30000 new employees added last year. This shows resilient job growth despite economic challenges.
- Patents & Grants: Innovation remains a priority, with more than 3500 patents and over 390 grants supporting technological advancements and sustainable development in shipbuilding.
- Global Footprint: Leading shipbuilding countries include the USA, Germany, India, China, and the Netherlands. Top city hubs are Singapore, Mumbai, Istanbul, Dubai, and Hamburg.
- Investment Landscape: The average investment per funding round is USD 47 million. More than 430 investors supported over 550 closed funding rounds across 220 companies.
- Top Investors: DBS, Cosco International Holdings, United Overseas Bank, and more are top investors, contributing to a combined investment value of over USD 2 billion.
- Startup Ecosystem: Notable startups include AlongRoute (AI-based ship routing), GT Wings (wind propulsion), Ghostworks Marine (air encapsulation), Elvene Boats (solar electric boats), and Varuna Sentinels (ESG reporting tools).
- Recommendations for Stakeholders: Entrepreneurs should integrate digital twin technology and sustainability practices to enhance operational efficiency and reduce emissions. Companies should prioritize R&D in carbon capture and alternative fuel technologies to meet global environmental standards. Governments must support the industry by establishing incentives for green innovation, funding research collaborations, and enforcing regulatory frameworks that encourage sustainable practices.
Explore the Data-driven Shipbuilding Market Report for 2025
The Shipbuilding Outlook 2025 uses data from the Discovery Platform and encapsulates the key metrics that underline the sector’s dynamic growth and innovation. A total of 310 startups have entered the market, adding to a database of over 6000 companies engaged in shipbuilding. Despite a slight contraction with an annual growth rate of -1.37%, innovation is evident through more than 3500 registered patents and over 390 grants.
The industry employs about 830000 people globally, with 30000 new jobs created last year. Leading shipbuilding countries include the USA, Germany, India, China, and the Netherlands. Top city hubs are Singapore, Mumbai, Istanbul, Dubai, and Hamburg, which shows the sector’s regional concentration and importance.
What data is used to create this shipbuilding report?
Based on the data provided by our Discovery Platform, we observe that the shipbuilding industry ranks among the top 5% in the following categories relative to all 20K topics in our database. These categories provide a comprehensive overview of the industry’s key metrics and inform the short-term future direction of the industry.
- News Coverage & Publications: The news coverage and publications surpassed 5300 articles last year. This is a reflection of significant media and research attention.
- Funding Rounds: Over 550 funding rounds are recorded in our database. This highlights active financial support for shipbuilding ventures.
- Manpower: The industry, with a workforce of more than 830000, added over 30000 new employees last year.
- Patents: The sector holds more than 3500 patents, which underscores its commitment to technological advancements and innovation.
- Grants: The industry received over 390 grants, emphasizing governmental and institutional support for shipbuilding initiatives.
- Yearly Global Search Growth: The global search interest in shipbuilding grew by 1.91% annually. This indicates sustained public and business interest in the field.
A Snapshot of the Global Shipbuilding Industry
The industry faces a slight contraction with an annual growth rate of -1.37%, yet remains active with over 300 startups and 280 merger and acquisition deals. Innovation continues as a priority with more than 3500 patents granted and 1300 applicants, leading to a yearly patent growth of 3.51%. China leads in patent issuance with over 1400 patents, followed by South Korea with more than 500 which indicates strong technological advancement in shipbuilding. Early-stage activity includes 50 startups, which reflects ongoing entrepreneurial interest and development.
Explore the Funding Landscape of the Shipbuilding Industry
Investment data for the shipbuilding industry reveals a strong financial landscape. The average investment per round is USD 47 million, showing investor confidence and commitment. More than 430 investors support the sector which contributes to over 550 closed funding rounds. With investments spread across more than 220 companies, these figures highlight the industry’s economic importance and diverse range of stakeholders.
Who is Investing in Shipbuilding Companies?
The top investors in the shipbuilding industry have contributed a combined investment value exceeding USD 2 billion. Noteworthy investments include:
- DBS invested USD 900 million in at least one company.
- Cosco Shipping International contributed USD 383.8 million to at least one company.
- United Overseas Bank invested USD 298.3 million in at least one company.
- Ferretti Group allocated USD 276.2 million to at least one company.
- Flowserve contributed USD 245 million to at least one company.
- Montagu Private Equity invested USD 238 million in at least one company.
- Mohawk Industries provided USD 219 million to at least one company.
- Leidos invested USD 190 million in at least one company.
- IMI contributed USD 190 million across two companies.
- Gibbs and Cox also invested USD 190 million across two companies.
Access Top Shipbuilding Innovations & Trends with the Discovery Platform
Explore the emerging trends within the shipbuilding industry and their firmographic data:
- Digital Twin applications in shipbuilding are transforming operational efficiencies to enable real-time simulation and optimize resource allocation. It involves over 5000 companies and employs more than 360000 people. This technology added 33000 new employees last year, with a trend growth rate of 22.27%.
- Carbon Capture initiatives align with global environmental goals that allow shipbuilders to address emissions and improve their environmental footprint. This trend has over 1800 companies and 180000 employees. It added 15000 employees last year, growing at an annual trend growth rate of 16.58%.
- Fleet Management trend includes over 6500 companies and employs 620000 people. Last year, 31000 new employees joined, maintaining a trend growth rate of 1.45%. Fleet management’s scale and consistent growth highlight its importance in optimizing logistics, operational costs, and asset utilization in the shipbuilding sector.
5 Top Examples from 300+ Innovative Shipbuilding Startups
The five innovative startups showcased below are picked based on data including the trend they operate within and their relevance, founding year, funding status, and more. Book a demo to find promising startups, emerging trends, or industry data specific to your company’s needs and objectives.
AlongRoute provides AI-based Ship Routing
Greek startup AlongRoute offers AI-based marine forecasts for weather routing in maritime operations. It uses machine learning models trained on historical data to predict ocean parameters like wind, wave, and current patterns in regions like the Mediterranean. Its forecasts offer precision with hourly updates to optimize routes for fuel efficiency and emission reduction. AlongRoute’s solution allows maritime companies to save costs, reduce environmental impact, and navigate more safely.
GT Wings develops Wind Propulsion System
UK-based startup GT Wings develops AirWing, a wind propulsion system with AirFlow Technology to enhance thrust and fuel efficiency for commercial vessels. The AirWing system leverages wind power to save fuel and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This makes it suitable for retrofit and new-build ships. Its modular design allows for easy integration without impacting vessel operations, while its compact size ensures optimal performance even in challenging conditions. GT Wings’ technology supports the maritime industry’s goals of reducing operational costs and advancing environmental sustainability in global shipping.
Ghostworks Marine implements Air Encapsulation Technology
US-based startup Ghostworks Marine designs M-Hull vessels with air encapsulation technology to enhance stability and speed in various marine conditions. The M-Hull structure channels bow wave energy into its M-shaped hull to generate hydrodynamic lift, reduce drag, and enhance fuel efficiency. It also includes damping features that minimize pitching and slamming resulting in a smoother, quieter ride. Further, its low-wake capabilities support environmental protection in sensitive marine areas.
Elvene Boats manufactures Solar Electric Boats
Finnish startup Elvene Boats manufactures solar-powered electric vessels with solar panel systems for zero emissions and noiseless operation. The startup’s model, Amber, combines a center console’s practicality with a day cruiser’s comfort. It features two independent motors, an infotainment system, seating for seven, and a cuddy cabin for two. Amber offers a top speed of 15 knots and an infinite range at low cruising speeds to ensure maintenance-free and self-sustainable boating. Its other model, Greta, is versatile for fishing and family day trips. It achieves a top speed of 5 knots and a minimum reach of 20 nautical miles per day. Elvene Boats’ designs prioritize sustainability and user experience to offer eco-friendly alternatives to traditional boating that reduce environmental impact and operational costs.
Varuna Sentinels offers ESG Reporting Tools
Dutch startup Varuna Sentinels provides ESG compliance and sustainability management solutions for the marine and shipbuilding industries. The startup’s platform integrates emissions management, hazardous materials tracking, and lifecycle assessment tools. It enables shipbuilders and operators to meet standards like Inventory of Hazardous Materials (IHM) and Circular Ship Recycling Design (CSRD) while streamlining reporting for frameworks such as GRI, SASB, and TCFD. By collecting and analyzing data on emissions, accident prevention protocols, safety measures, and resource use, Varuna delivers a comprehensive view of operational impact, enhancing accountability throughout the vessel lifecycle. The platform improves compliance efficiency, reduces environmental impact, and strengthens transparency. Varuna Sentinels supports sustainable practices and data-driven decision-making.
Gain Comprehensive Insights into Shipbuilding Trends, Startups, or Technologies
In 2025, the shipbuilding industry will focus on innovation, sustainability, and digital advancements. Trends like digital twin technology, carbon capture, and fleet management will transform operations and reduce environmental impacts. Get in touch to explore all 300+ startups and scaleups, as well as all industry trends impacting shipbuilding companies.
