"This is one of the most exciting growth plans we have been working on since the fund inception," said Piers Lakin of Ocean 14 Capital.
Photo: aquaManager.
Private equity impact investment fund Ocean 14 Capital has announced it is teaming up with aquaculture software, Internet of Things (IoT) and AI specialist aquaManager.
The fund has entered into a minority investment agreement with aquaManager to build an aquaculture software data and automation platform that it says "will turbocharge the sustainability agenda in the aquaculture industry".
“Together, we are building an innovative ecosystem that will turbocharge sustainability, efficiency, and predictability, setting a new standard for the future of aquaculture,” said Kostas Seferis, founder of aquaManager, in a press release.
“We have been working with Mr. Seferis and his team for more than two years now. We feel a real privilege and a sense of responsibility that we were able to establish a partnership with the leading aquaculture software company in the Industry. This is one of the most exciting growth plans we have been working on since the fund inception,” said Piers Lakin, Principal at Ocean 14 Capital, and the deal lead.
Headquartered in Athens, Greece, AquaManager describes itself as "a comprehensive software solution supporting all stages of fish aquaculture production, from hatchery to harvest". Complemented by Internet of Things (IoT) technology and smart equipment, the company provides tailored solutions for diverse aquaculture operations, encompassing cage and pond farming, Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS), and hatcheries worldwide.
“Our mission is to ensure that aquaculture can meet the rising demand for quality food in a rapidly growing world. We aim to harness the power of data and technology in a practical and pragmatic way to drive sustainability in the sector and make a positive impact on our planet," Seferis said. "We have maintained close communication with Ocean 14 Capital Fund for a long time and are extremely delighted to find that we share the same vision, values and ethics. Together, we’ll shape the future of aquaculture."
“We are exceedingly happy with this partnership and investments. AquaManager is the leading software company that provides the greatest operational value to the global industry. AI is commoditising analytics and making reliable, high-quality data, the new sought-after commodity," added Francisco Saraiva Gomes, founding partner and chief investment officer at Ocean 14 Capital.
"With aquaManager, we continue to reinforce and develop our thesis for a comprehensive investment strategy in data, sensing, analytics and data-driven decision making throughout the blue economy. Data and automation through aquaManager, enables the aquaculture industry to drive convergence faster and adopt sustainable, well-informed management practices,” Saraiva Gomes said.
Launched in 2020, and guided by the United National Sustainable Development Goal 14: Life Below Water, the Ocean 14 Capital Fund aims to support projects which enhance ocean health through sustainable and regenerative practices. This includes aquaculture, alternative proteins, reduction of plastic waste, protection of marine ecosystems, and ending overfishing.
In May 2024, the fund announced it had reached its €200 million target. In addition to aquaManager, Ocean 14 Capital's investment portfolio includes a variety of aquaculture sector companies, such as The Kingfish Company, AquaExchange, Wellfish Tech and SyAqua.
