Glasgow-based maritime tech start-up EcoNavis Solutions is scaling fast. The company, behind the Eco Boss Cap propeller hub, secured £300,000 from the UK’s Innovate UK ICURe Exploit programme. The funding will help commercialise university research.
EcoNavis spun out from the University of Strathclyde. It has completed all ICURe stages, including product testing and validation. So far, the company has drawn £55,000. The full £300,000 will be released in phases. The money covers salaries, exhibitions, customer engagement, and business development. It allows EcoNavis to expand its team and operations.
The company also joined the Smart Things Accelerator Centre in Glasgow. The 18-month programme provides mentoring and structured growth support. EcoNavis now has dedicated office space. Its team includes a Chief Technical Officer, Chief Operating Officer, lead CFD engineer, and administrative manager.
“At the start of 2025, we were just a couple of people,” said CEO Dr Batuhan Aktas. “With funding and support, we are building the expertise and infrastructure to bring energy-efficient solutions to market.”
Dr Batuhan Aktas, EcoNavis Solutions founder and CEO
EcoNavis awaits decisions on other grants. These include £100,000 from Scottish Enterprise’s Smart Grant and $500,000 from the US National Fish and Wildlife Foundation. Other applications are under review with the UK Department for Transport and maritime innovation funds.
The Eco Boss Cap has been in development since 2022. It improves propulsion efficiency by more than 2%, cuts emissions, and saves fuel. Rising fuel costs and regulations are driving demand. EcoNavis is ready to meet global interest in clean maritime technology.