The aerospace engineering industry in the US is a pivotal sector that focuses on designing, producing, and maintaining aircraft, spacecraft, and related systems. This industry involves various players, from major corporations like Boeing and Lockheed Martin to innovative startups specializing in advanced propulsion and satellite technologies. Remarkably, the sector has recently experienced a surge in interest around sustainable aviation technologies, highlighting a growing commitment to reducing carbon footprints. Additionally, trends in private space exploration and electric flight indicate a rapidly evolving future, where new solutions and ventures could fundamentally transform air travel and interstellar exploration.


The investor landscape within this industry includes corporate giants and venture capital firms, underscoring the varied approaches to funding aerospace innovation. With headquarters spanning locations like Washington, D.C., and San Francisco, these investors range in size and scope. Notably, both institutional players and emerging venture funds have shown significant activity in 2024, with investments reflecting strategic priorities hence marking the importance of the aerospace sector. From NASA, conducting over 20 investments, to smaller firms like Liquid 2 Ventures, these players are vital for the sector's long-term growth.


Top 13 Aerospace Engineering Investors in the US


1. U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)

  • Website: energy.gov
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Washington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1977
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 597
  • LinkedIn: u-s--department-of-energy

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) is a public entity established in 1977, responsible for overseeing national energy policy, energy production, and nuclear power research. It serves various stakeholders, including government entities and the public, by providing guidance on energy efficiency, funding opportunities, and conducting research to address energy challenges. In 2024, the DOE has been actively involved in the aerospace engineering sector, providing grants to several key players in the industry. Notable transactions include a $400,000 grant to GE Aerospace, a $395,000 grant to Pratt & Whitney, and a $200,000 grant to RTX, among others. These investments highlight the DOE's role in fostering innovation and development within the aerospace engineering field, particularly in projects that intersect with energy efficiency and advanced technologies.


2. Y Combinator

  • Website: ycombinator.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2005
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 802
  • LinkedIn: y-combinator

Y Combinator is a prominent startup accelerator and venture capital firm based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2005. It provides funding and mentorship to early-stage technology companies through a structured program that includes resources like the Startup School and co-founder matching services. Y Combinator has successfully launched over 4,000 startups, establishing itself as a key player in the technology startup ecosystem. Notably, Y Combinator has made significant investments in the aerospace sector, including multiple funding rounds for Boom Supersonic, which is developing the Mach-2.2 commercial airliner called Overture. In 2016, Y Combinator participated in a seed round for Boom Supersonic, followed by a Series A investment in 2017, and further contributed to a Series B round in 2019, totaling over $141 million in funding for the company. Additionally, Y Combinator invested in Wright Electric, a company focused on electric aviation, further demonstrating its commitment to supporting innovative aerospace engineering ventures.


3. Deep Tech Fund (an Alumni Ventures Fund)

  • Website: av.vc
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Manchester, New Hampshire, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2023
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 258
  • LinkedIn: deep-tech-fund-av-focused-fund

The Deep Tech Fund, part of Alumni Ventures, is a venture capital firm based in Manchester, New Hampshire, founded in 2023. It provides accredited investors and institutions with access to professionally-managed, diversified venture portfolios. With a network of over 10,000 investors, the firm focuses on connecting them with high-quality investment opportunities in the startup ecosystem. Notably, the fund has made significant investments in the aerospace sector, including a $15.9 million venture round for Venus Aerospace in June 2023 and a $100 million Series D funding for Ursa Major in April 2023. These transactions highlight the fund's active role in supporting innovative aerospace technologies and companies.


4. NASA - National Aeronautics and Space Administration

  • Website: nasa.gov
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Washington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1958
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 24
  • LinkedIn: nasa

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is a public entity focused on civil space programs and aeronautics research, founded in 1958. NASA conducts space exploration missions, supports the International Space Station, and develops advanced spacecraft. In 2023, NASA finalized a $3.2 billion contract with Boeing for the manufacture of core and upper stages for future Space Launch System (SLS) rockets, which will support Artemis missions to the Moon and beyond. Additionally, NASA awarded $253.4 million to GE Aviation and MagniX for developing electric propulsion technologies as part of its Electric Powertrain Flight Demonstration program, aiming to introduce this technology to U.S. aviation fleets by 2035. Furthermore, NASA has funded various commercial space station concepts, including a $160 million award to Northrop Grumman, showcasing its role in fostering innovation in aerospace engineering. NASA serves government entities and educational institutions, providing expertise in scientific research and technology development, making it a pivotal investor in the aerospace sector.


5. Starburst


Starburst is a venture capital firm based in El Segundo, California, founded in 2012. It specializes in the aerospace and defense industry, providing startup acceleration, strategy consulting, and venture investments to help clients innovate and navigate the complexities of these sectors. Starburst has been involved in several notable transactions within the aerospace engineering context, including investments in ZeroAvia, which focuses on hydrogen-powered aviation, and Atomic-6, an innovative aerospace company that has secured significant funding. Their portfolio also includes investments in Destinus, a startup aiming to develop hydrogen-powered supersonic flight, and Ampaire, which is working on electric aircraft solutions. Starburst's clients range from startups to corporations and government entities, all seeking to enhance their technological capabilities and secure funding in the aerospace domain.


6. Boeing

  • Website: boeing.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Arlington, Virginia, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2002
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 7
  • LinkedIn: boeing

The Boeing Company, founded in 2002 and headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, is a prominent aerospace manufacturer known for designing, manufacturing, and selling a diverse range of products, including airplanes, rotorcraft, rockets, and satellites. Boeing serves various sectors, including commercial airlines, government agencies, and military organizations, providing innovative solutions for safe and efficient air travel and defense capabilities. In 2024, Boeing announced its acquisition of Spirit AeroSystems for approximately $8.3 billion, which will enhance its manufacturing capabilities in the aerospace sector. Additionally, Boeing's acquisition of Aurora Flight Sciences, a leader in autonomous flight technology, reflects its focus on advancing aerospace engineering. Boeing has also invested in Accion Systems, supporting the development of satellite thruster technology, which further emphasizes its commitment to innovation in aerospace engineering.


7. Lockheed Martin

  • Website: lockheedmartin.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Bethesda, Maryland, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1912
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 19
  • LinkedIn: lockheed-martin

Lockheed Martin Corporation, founded in 1912 and headquartered in Bethesda, Maryland, is a leading defense contractor known for its specialization in aerospace and military technologies. The company provides advanced solutions to government entities, including the U.S. Department of Defense and foreign governments, focusing on enhancing national security through innovative products like the F-35 and various missile systems. In recent years, Lockheed Martin has made significant investments in aerospace-related companies, such as a $20 million equity investment in Sintavia, which specializes in additive manufacturing for advanced thermodynamic components used in aerospace applications, including the F-35 fighter jet. Additionally, Lockheed Martin has been involved in the acquisition of Gyrocam Systems, which develops gyrostabilized optical surveillance systems for military use, and has participated in funding rounds for Agile Space Industries, a company focused on in-space propulsion solutions for lunar missions. These transactions highlight Lockheed Martin's commitment to advancing aerospace engineering technologies and its strategic investments in the sector.


8. Government of Canada

  • Website: canada.ca
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Canada, Kentucky, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1999
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 137
  • LinkedIn: government-of-canada

The Government of Canada is a public entity that provides a wide range of services and information to Canadian citizens and residents, addressing various needs including employment, immigration, health care, and taxation. Founded in 1999, it operates through multiple departments and agencies to ensure access to essential services and support for individuals and businesses across the country. In the aerospace engineering context, the Government of Canada has been active in funding initiatives that support the industry. For instance, it provided a grant of $186,000 to the Alberta Aviation Council in November 2024, which is aimed at promoting aviation in Alberta. Additionally, it supported Harwood Custom Composites with a grant of $165,750 in August 2023, which is involved in aerospace manufacturing. Other notable transactions include grants to the Berger Group and APF Villeneuve, further indicating its commitment to fostering growth in the aerospace sector.


9. Liquid 2 Ventures

  • Website: liquid2.vc
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2015
  • Headcount: 1-10
  • Number of deals in 2024: 91
  • LinkedIn: liquid-2-ventures

Liquid 2 Ventures is a venture capital firm based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2015. The firm specializes in investing in technology startups at the pre-seed and seed stages, as well as growth-stage companies. They provide capital, mentorship, and access to a vast network of industry insiders to help founders navigate their entrepreneurial journeys. Notably, Liquid 2 Ventures has made significant investments in the aerospace sector, including Destinus, a Swiss startup focused on hydrogen-powered supersonic flight, and Momentus, which is developing space transportation services. Additionally, they have invested in Stralis Aircraft, which is also relevant to aerospace engineering. These transactions highlight their commitment to supporting innovative companies in the aerospace industry.


10. IQT (In-Q-Tel)

  • Website: iqt.org
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Arlington, Virginia, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1999
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 24
  • LinkedIn: in-q-tel

In-Q-Tel (IQT) is a not-for-profit venture capital firm founded in 1999, based in Arlington, Virginia. It specializes in investing in technology startups that can enhance U.S. national security. IQT collaborates with various government agencies to identify and support innovative solutions in fields such as software, materials sciences, and aerospace engineering. Among its notable transactions, IQT participated in a $100 million Series B funding round for Hermeus, a company focused on developing advanced aircraft, which will aid in the completion of their first aircraft, Quarterhorse. Additionally, IQT's investment in ClearSpace, a leader in in-orbit servicing and active space debris removal, highlights its commitment to sustainable aerospace practices. These investments reflect IQT's strategic focus on technologies that align with national security interests, particularly in the aerospace domain.


11. Advantage Capital


Advantage Capital is a venture capital firm based in New Orleans, Louisiana, founded in 1992. The firm specializes in providing equity and debt financing to small businesses across various sectors, including agribusiness, solar projects, and affordable housing. Notably, Advantage Capital has also made significant investments in the aerospace engineering sector, particularly through multiple debt financing transactions with ACT Aerospace from 2015 to 2018. These transactions highlight their involvement in supporting aerospace companies, showcasing their flexibility in capital solutions to help businesses grow. Additionally, they have engaged with other manufacturing firms, such as Numet Machining Techniques and Malones CNC Machining Inc., further emphasizing their interest in industries that intersect with aerospace engineering.


12. Intel Capital

  • Website: intelcapital.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Santa Clara, California, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1991
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 23
  • LinkedIn: intelcapital

Intel Capital is a venture capital firm based in Santa Clara, California, founded in 1991. The firm invests in early-stage technology companies, focusing on areas such as AI, cloud computing, and semiconductor technologies. In addition to providing funding, Intel Capital offers strategic support and access to Intel's extensive resources to help startups scale and innovate. Notably, Intel Capital has participated in funding rounds for companies like Delair, a leading global supplier of commercial drone solutions, which aligns with aerospace engineering. Delair's focus on drone technology and the development of the Intel Insight Platform highlights Intel Capital's engagement in the aerospace sector. Other investments, such as those in Skyport Systems, further demonstrate Intel Capital's interest in technologies that intersect with aerospace applications.


13. TransDigm Group Inc.

  • Website: transdigm.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Cleveland, Ohio, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1993
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 2
  • LinkedIn: transdigm-goup-inc-

TransDigm Group Incorporated is a leading aerospace manufacturer based in Cleveland, Ohio, specializing in engineered aerospace components. Founded in 1993, the company has established itself as a key player in the aerospace industry, serving both commercial and military aircraft manufacturers and operators. TransDigm's disciplined acquisition strategy focuses on proprietary aerospace businesses with significant aftermarket content, ensuring a steady revenue stream from ongoing maintenance and support. Notable transactions include the acquisition of Calspan Corporation for approximately $725 million, which provides essential testing and technology development services for the aerospace and defense sectors. Additionally, TransDigm has acquired companies like Data Device Corp. for $1 billion, known for its high-reliability databus and power controller products, and AmSafe Global Holdings for $750 million, recognized for its innovative safety and restraint equipment in aerospace. These strategic acquisitions underscore TransDigm's commitment to enhancing its portfolio in the aerospace engineering domain.



Aerospace Engineering Insights: Key Investors in the US


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)Washington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)10001+1977597
Y CombinatorSan Francisco, California, United States (USA)51-2002005802
Deep Tech Fund (an Alumni Ventures Fund)Manchester, New Hampshire, United States (USA)51-2002023258
NASA - National Aeronautics and Space AdministrationWashington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)10001+195824
StarburstEl Segundo, California, United States (USA)51-20020123
BoeingArlington, Virginia, United States (USA)10001+20027
Lockheed MartinBethesda, Maryland, United States (USA)10001+191219
Government of CanadaCanada, Kentucky, United States (USA)10001+1999137
Liquid 2 VenturesSan Francisco, California, United States (USA)1-10201591
IQT (In-Q-Tel)Arlington, Virginia, United States (USA)51-200199924
Advantage CapitalNew Orleans, Louisiana, United States (USA)51-20019925
Intel CapitalSanta Clara, California, United States (USA)11-50199123
TransDigm Group Inc.Cleveland, Ohio, United States (USA)10001+19932


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