Castro, JoãoMadeleine, Spaymant Mathilde Marguerite2024-10-222024-10-222024-01-262024-01-10http://hdl.handle.net/10362/173893This thesis examines the Blue Economy (BE) in Portugal, focusing on the pathways to private financing. It explores strategies for blue startups to secure funding by analyzing dynamics with investors. Using a qualitative research design, 16 interviews with industry, startup, and investor experts were conducted. The findings highlight the complex nature of successful private funding in the BE, involving team dynamics, business requirements, and investor relationships. This thesis makes a substantial contribution to the progression of the Portuguese BE, presenting actionable guidelines for blue entrepreneurs to effectively attract and retain investments.engBlue economyBlue entrepreneurshipPortugalEntrepreneurial ecosystemVenture capitalFundingmaster thesis203601793