Motion Ventures has just closed its second fund, Motion Ventures Fund II, with a substantial $100 million capitalization. This fund is recognized as the largest venture fund focused on maritime technology, aiming to accelerate the adoption of digital and sustainable solutions in the maritime industry. Central to its mission is the promotion of collaboration among startups, established corporate leaders, and strategic investors.
Fund II expands the Motion Ventures strategic investor consortium to over 17 major players in the maritime and supply chain sectors, establishing the Motion Ventures Alliance. This alliance creates a significant partnership network within the maritime realm, providing invaluable mentorship, swift pilot opportunities, and direct connections to industry veterans for portfolio companies. Over the next 18 to 24 months, Fund II plans to invest between $250,000 and $10 million in at least 25 startups. The focus will be on innovations that digitize and decarbonize maritime supply chains, supporting the industry’s transition toward sustainability and enhanced operational effectiveness.
In a notable shift, the fund also aims to include investments in asset-intensive hardware solutions alongside software initiatives, in response to increasing corporate demands for comprehensive maritime innovations. Shaun Hon, the Founder and General Partner of Motion Ventures, emphasized the current transformative landscape of the maritime industry, where digitalization and decarbonization have become essential imperatives. He clarified that the aim of Fund II surpasses merely providing larger capital injections; it seeks to integrate visionary entrepreneurs, corporate strategists, and industry partners to foster the rapid adoption and scaling of impactful solutions.
Motion Ventures has already garnered over half of its target amount for Fund II and has made investments in innovative startups such as OceanScore and Fernride. This new fund builds upon the success of the first fund, launched in 2021, which recorded two profitable exits and was ranked among the top 10% of global VC funds from that year. Since its inception, Motion Ventures has evaluated more than 8,000 startups, reinforcing its position as one of the most active investors in the maritime segment.
Nakul Malhotra, Vice President of Emerging Opportunities Portfolio at Wilhelmsen Group, recognized Motion Ventures’ rapid evolution from a novel concept to a vital maritime investor. He acknowledged how their focused investment strategy has significantly impacted the early-stage venture landscape, reiterating the commitment to supporting their impactful mission with Fund II.
With market projections estimating the maritime digitization market to reach $423.4 billion by 2031, Fund II is aptly positioned to capitalize on this opportunity. Motion Ventures remains dedicated to driving innovation within global maritime supply chains, aiming to redefine industry standards and benchmark sustainable practices in maritime commerce. Additionally, leaders from portfolio companies have lauded the strategic advantages provided by Motion Ventures, highlighting how collaborations formed through Fund II are pivotal for scaling innovative solutions and enhancing market access.
Overall, Fund II represents a significant leap forward in fostering a sustainable, digitally driven maritime future.