The aircraft manufacturing industry in the Nordics is characterized by innovative designs and advanced engineering. Companies range from traditional manufacturers to agile startups focused on sustainable aviation solutions. Key players offer a broad range of services, from parts production to maintenance for both civil and military sectors. Notably, the sector is embracing eco-friendly technologies, with increasing investments in electric and hybrid-powered aircraft. As the industry evolves, partnerships and acquisitions are pivotal. The Nordic commitment to sustainability is evident, positioning the region as a global leader in the development of next-generation aviation technologies and practices.

The list features 12 prominent investors in the aircraft manufacturing space, predominantly based in Sweden and Norway. This compilation includes both corporate giants and venture capital firms, showcasing varying investment sizes and strategies. Founded between 1814 and 2021, these firms have made significant contributions to the industry, with 2024 transactions highlighting their commitments. From Kongsberg Maritime’s aerospace initiatives to EQT Ventures' investment in green technologies, the roster reflects an active drive for innovation and growth in the Nordics' aircraft sector.

Top 12 Aircraft Manufacturing Investors in the Nordics

1. EQT Group

• Website: eqtgroup.com
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
• Founded year: 1994
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• Number of deals in 2024: 30
• LinkedIn: eqt-partners

EQT Group is a prominent private equity investment firm based in Stockholm, Sweden, founded in 1994. The firm specializes in managing diverse investment portfolios across multiple sectors, including private equity, infrastructure, real estate, growth equity, and venture capital. Notably, EQT Group has made significant investments in the aircraft manufacturing sector, including the acquisition of EIS Aircraft Group in 2015, which focuses on products and services for civil and military aviation, such as cabin interiors and maintenance services. Additionally, they have invested in Unilode Aviation Solutions, which enhances their portfolio in the aviation industry. These transactions highlight EQT Group's active role in the aircraft manufacturing space, alongside their broader investment strategy.

2. Kongsberg Maritime

• Website: kongsberg.com
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Kongsberg, Buskerud, Norway
• Founded year: 1814
• Headcount: 5001-10000
• Number of deals in 2024: 1
• LinkedIn: kongsberg-maritime

Kongsberg Maritime, part of Kongsberg Gruppen, is a technology provider founded in 1814, specializing in advanced solutions across defence, aerospace, maritime, and digital sectors. With a workforce of 5001-10000 employees, Kongsberg operates globally, focusing on sustainable practices and collaboration with stakeholders. Notably, Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace has made significant strides in the aerospace sector, including the acquisition of Aerospace Industrial Maintenance Norway AS, which enhances their military aircraft and helicopter maintenance capabilities. Additionally, Kongsberg's acquisition of NanoAvionics aims to expand their offerings in the aerospace domain, particularly in small satellite manufacturing. These transactions highlight Kongsberg's strategic focus on enhancing its aerospace capabilities, making it a notable investor in the aircraft manufacturing industry.

3. Saab

• Website: saab.com
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
• Founded year: 1937
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 1
• LinkedIn: saab

Saab AB, founded in 1937 and based in Stockholm, Sweden, is a prominent corporate investor in the aerospace and defense sector. With over 10,000 employees, Saab operates globally, providing innovative technologies in aviation, radar, and missile systems. The company has made several strategic acquisitions to bolster its capabilities in the aviation domain. Notably, in 2006, Saab acquired Aerospace Monitoring and Systems (Pty) Ltd, enhancing its avionics business, particularly in safety and monitoring systems. More recently, in 2023, Saab acquired Blue Bear Systems Research, a company specializing in autonomous technologies, which further supports its aviation and defense capabilities. These transactions highlight Saab's commitment to advancing its position in the aircraft manufacturing industry, making it a relevant player in this sector.

4. Trelleborg Group

• Website: trelleborg.com
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Trelleborg, Skåne, Sweden
• Founded year: 1905
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 7
• LinkedIn: trelleborggroup

Trelleborg Group is a corporate investor based in Trelleborg, Skåne, Sweden, specializing in engineered polymer solutions. Founded in 1905, the company has a workforce of over 10,000 employees and operates across various industries, including aerospace, automotive, healthcare, and marine. In recent years, Trelleborg has made significant strides in the aerospace sector, acquiring several companies that enhance its capabilities in manufacturing aerospace components. Notable transactions include the acquisition of a manufacturer of aerospace components in Tukwila, Washington, aimed at strengthening their position in producing elastomers for aerospace seals, and the acquisition of Aero-Plastics, a company specializing in high-performance polymer components for the aerospace industry. These strategic moves reflect Trelleborg's commitment to innovation and meeting the demanding needs of the aerospace market.

5. EQT Ventures

• Website: eqtventures.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
• Founded year: 2015
• Headcount: 11-50
• Number of deals in 2024: 28
• LinkedIn: eqt-ventures

EQT Ventures is a venture capital firm based in Stockholm, Sweden, founded in 2015. The firm specializes in investing in early-stage tech startups, providing not only financial support but also operational assistance to entrepreneurs. EQT Ventures has a strong focus on technology and innovation, connecting startups with a global network of industry experts and resources. Notably, they have invested in Heart Aerospace, a Swedish hybrid-electric aeroplane manufacturer, participating in multiple funding rounds including a $107 million Series B round in 2024. This investment aims to support the development and certification of their first hybrid-electric aircraft, the ES-30. Additionally, EQT Ventures led a €40.5M Series A funding round for The Exploration Company, which is working on a reusable space capsule, showcasing their interest in aerospace technologies. These transactions highlight EQT Ventures' active role in the aircraft manufacturing and aerospace sectors.

6. Addnode Group AB

• Website: addnodegroup.com
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
• Founded year: 2003
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• Number of deals in 2024: 4
• LinkedIn: addnode-group-ab

Addnode Group AB is a corporate investor based in Stockholm, Sweden, specializing in digital solutions that enhance operational efficiency across various sectors, including construction, manufacturing, and public services. Founded in 2003, the company has a decentralized business model that supports its subsidiaries in pursuing organic growth and strategic acquisitions. Notably, in 2024, Addnode Group acquired PRIME Aerostructures GmbH, a company involved in the aerospace sector, which strengthens its position in the aircraft manufacturing industry. Additionally, the acquisition of Optimec, a partner of Dassault Systèmes specializing in Computer-Aided Engineering technologies, further enhances Addnode's capabilities in product lifecycle management, which is crucial for aircraft manufacturing. Other acquisitions, such as Intrinsys and Simuleon, also contribute to their expertise in engineering and simulation, relevant to the aerospace domain.

7. Lagercrantz Group AB

• Website: lagercrantz.com
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
• Founded year: 2001
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• Number of deals in 2024: 6
• LinkedIn: lagercrantz

Lagercrantz Group AB is a technology group based in Stockholm, Sweden, founded in 2001. The company operates approximately 80 subsidiaries that provide specialized technical solutions across various niche markets, including Electrify, Control, and TecSec. Their business model emphasizes both acquisitions and organic growth, catering primarily to business customers seeking tailored technology solutions. In 2023, Lagercrantz made a significant acquisition of DP Seals Ltd, a UK-based manufacturer of rubber sealings and mouldings, which has a turnover of £5 million and is expected to enhance Lagercrantz's capabilities in high-specification applications, particularly in the aerospace sector. This acquisition highlights Lagercrantz's strategic interest in the aerospace industry, making them a relevant player in the aircraft manufacturing context. Other recent acquisitions, such as CP Cases and Mastsystem, while not directly related to aircraft manufacturing, demonstrate the company's active expansion strategy across various technical sectors.

8. Ifs

• Website: ifs.com
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Sweden
• Founded year: 1983
• Headcount: 5001-10000
• Number of deals in 2024: 2
• LinkedIn: ifs

IFS (ifs.com) is a corporate investor based in Sweden, founded in 1983, with a workforce of 5001-10000 employees. The company specializes in providing enterprise software solutions across various industries, including Aerospace, Energy, Construction, and Manufacturing. IFS's offerings, such as IFS Cloud, Asset Management, and Field Service Management, are designed to optimize operations and enhance service delivery for businesses. Notably, IFS has made significant strides in the aviation sector, highlighted by their acquisition of Mxi Technologies Ltd. in December 2016, which focuses on maintenance management software for the aviation industry. This acquisition underscores IFS's commitment to improving efficiency and decision-making in aerospace operations. Additionally, IFS's recent acquisition of EmpowerMX in July 2024 further emphasizes their strategic focus on enhancing software solutions relevant to the aviation sector.

9. NCAB Group

• Website: ncabgroup.com
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Sundbyberg, Stockholm, Sweden
• Founded year: 1993
• Headcount: 501-1000
• Number of deals in 2024: 4
• LinkedIn: ncab-group

NCAB Group is a corporate investor based in Sundbyberg, Stockholm, Sweden, founded in 1993. The company specializes in manufacturing printed circuit boards (PCBs) for various industries, including Aerospace, Automotive, and Medical. NCAB Group has been actively expanding its operations through acquisitions, including the purchase of Elmatica, Phase 3 Technologies, and the PCB division of DVS Global, which enhance their capabilities and market presence. These acquisitions are expected to improve their earnings and position in the PCB market, particularly in sectors that require high-quality components, such as aerospace. Their commitment to delivering reliable and timely PCB solutions makes them a valuable player in the aircraft manufacturing supply chain.

10. SKF Group

• Website: skf.com
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
• Founded year: 1907
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 3
• LinkedIn: skf

AB SKF is a manufacturing company founded in 1907, specializing in the production of bearings, seals, and lubrication systems. With a global presence and a workforce of over 10,000 employees, SKF serves various industries, enhancing machinery performance and reliability. Notably, SKF has made strategic acquisitions to bolster its capabilities in sectors relevant to aircraft manufacturing. For instance, the acquisition of Magnetic Group in 2002, which manufactures actuation systems, positions SKF to provide essential components for aerospace applications. Additionally, the recent acquisition of 2C Composites in 2023, a supplier of high-performance fiber composites, further strengthens SKF's portfolio in advanced materials that are increasingly used in the aerospace industry. These transactions highlight SKF's commitment to expanding its influence in markets that intersect with aircraft manufacturing.

11. Course Corrected

• Website: cc.vc
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
• Founded year: 2021
• Headcount: 1-10
• Number of deals in 2024: 6
• LinkedIn: course-corrected

Course Corrected is a venture capital fund based in Stockholm, Sweden, founded in 2021. The firm focuses on climate impact investments, supporting entrepreneurs and startups that develop scalable solutions to combat climate change. In 2024, Course Corrected participated in a significant seed funding round for Cosmic Aerospace, which raised $4.5 million for the development of its long-range, all-electric regional airplane, Skylark. This investment highlights their commitment to sustainable aviation. Additionally, they have been involved in other climate tech investments, such as Modvion, which focuses on renewable energy solutions. By providing funding and advisory services, Course Corrected aims to drive innovation in sustainability and help businesses achieve their growth potential, including those in the aircraft manufacturing sector.

12. Summa Equity

• Website: summaequity.com
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
• Founded year: 2016
• Headcount: 51-200
• Number of deals in 2024: 6
• LinkedIn: summa-equity

Summa Equity is a private equity firm based in Stockholm, Sweden, founded in 2016. The firm specializes in thematic investments that address global challenges, focusing on sustainable investment solutions across various sectors, including resource efficiency and technology. Summa Equity's commitment to aligning financial returns with positive societal impact is evident in their investment strategy. Notably, they have been actively involved in funding ZeroAvia, a company pioneering hydrogen-electric powertrains for aircraft. Summa Equity participated in several funding rounds for ZeroAvia, including a Series C round that raised $34 million in September 2024, and earlier rounds that cumulatively raised over $100 million. These investments support ZeroAvia's efforts towards certification of its engines and the development of larger powertrains for commercial aircraft applications, highlighting Summa Equity's engagement in the aircraft manufacturing sector.

Aircraft Manufacturing Insights: Key Investors in the Nordics

Investor	Headquarter	Size	Founded	Deals 2024
EQT Group	Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden	1001-5000	1994	30
Kongsberg Maritime	Kongsberg, Buskerud, Norway	5001-10000	1814	1
Saab	Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden	10001+	1937	1
Trelleborg Group	Trelleborg, Skåne, Sweden	10001+	1905	7
EQT Ventures	Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden	11-50	2015	28
Addnode Group AB	Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden	1001-5000	2003	4
Lagercrantz Group AB	Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden	1001-5000	2001	6
Ifs	Sweden	5001-10000	1983	2
NCAB Group	Sundbyberg, Stockholm, Sweden	501-1000	1993	4
SKF Group	Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden	10001+	1907	3
Course Corrected	Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden	1-10	2021	6
Summa Equity	Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden	51-200	2016	6

Want to find more investors focusing on the aircraft manufacturing industry?

If you want to find more investors that are active in the aircraft manufacturingindustry, you can do that with Inven. We built this list and analysis throughInven's Investor Search, and there are a lot more private equity, venturecapital, and corporate investors like these globally.

With Inven, you'll also get to know:

• Deal History: Number of deals and their sizes.
• Portfolio: Companies they've invested in.
• Contact data: Key dealmakers, including their emails and phonenumbers.
• ...and much more!