The telecommunication equipment industry in the US plays a pivotal role in enabling connectivity. It includes companies that manufacture devices, systems, and software to manage and transmit information. Key players range from large corporations designing network hardware to innovative startups developing software solutions for optimizing communication networks. As technology evolves, there's a surge in demand for advanced solutions, such as 5G infrastructure and IoT integration. The industry is seeing a paradigm shift towards data-driven services and enhanced security measures, driven by increasing global digitalization. Notably, investments in telecommunications have accelerated significantly, fueled by the expanding remote work culture.

This list of investors features a mix of venture capital firms, corporate investors, and private equity groups, primarily situated in California and New York. The investors vary in size, from smaller firms with under 200 employees to multinational corporations employing over 10,000. Established since the 1980s through 2016, these investors logged numerous funding activities in 2024, reflecting their strategic focus on telecommunication technologies. Noteworthy investors include New Enterprise Associates and Qualcomm, highlighting a strong interest in fostering innovative solutions within equipment and communication networks.

Top 13 Telecommunication Equipment Investors in the US

1. 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. Notably, Intel Capital has made significant investments in the telecommunications sector, including multiple funding rounds for Tejas Networks India, which raised $20 million in Series D, $15 million in Series C, and $6.6 million in Series B. Additionally, they invested in BridgeWave Communications, which raised $10.3 million in a venture round in 2012 and $2.4 million in 2009. These transactions highlight Intel Capital's active role in supporting companies that develop telecommunication equipment and technologies, demonstrating their relevance in this industry.

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 specializes in providing funding and mentorship to early-stage technology companies, having successfully launched over 4,000 startups. Among its notable transactions, Y Combinator has invested in Astranis, a satellite startup that raised substantial funding across multiple rounds, including $13.5 million in Series A, $40 million in Series B, and $200 million in Series D. These investments highlight Y Combinator's engagement in the telecommunications sector, particularly in satellite technology, which is a critical component of telecommunication infrastructure. Additionally, Y Combinator has supported other companies like Squire Technologies and Enlightra, further showcasing its diverse investment portfolio in technology-related fields.

3. Cisco

• Website: cisco.com
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: San Jose, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1984
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 5
• LinkedIn: cisco

Cisco Systems, Inc. is a technology company based in San Jose, California, specializing in digital communications and cybersecurity solutions. Founded in 1984, Cisco has grown to become a leader in networking hardware, software, and security services, catering to businesses and organizations across various industries. Notably, Cisco has made significant investments in the telecommunications equipment sector, including the acquisition of Acacia for $4.5 billion, which bolstered its optical networking capabilities. The acquisition of BroadSoft for $1.9 billion further enhanced Cisco's cloud communications and collaboration services, positioning it strongly in the telecom market. Additionally, Cisco's acquisition of Linksys Group allowed it to enter the consumer and small office/home office market, expanding its reach in networking products. These strategic moves underscore Cisco's active role in the telecommunications equipment industry, alongside its broader technology focus.

4. New Enterprise Associates (NEA)

• Website: nea.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Menlo Park, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1977
• Headcount: 51-200
• Number of deals in 2024: 57
• LinkedIn: new-enterprise-associates

New Enterprise Associates (NEA) is a prominent venture capital firm based in Menlo Park, California, founded in 1977. Specializing in investment management and advisory services, NEA focuses on startups, particularly in technology and healthcare. The firm emphasizes long-term relationships with entrepreneurs, providing both funding and strategic guidance. NEA has made notable investments in the telecommunication equipment sector, including a $20 million Series C funding round for Mimosa Networks, aimed at expanding their wireless product line. Additionally, NEA participated in a $75 million post-IPO equity round for Airspan Networks, a company that develops advanced wireless communication solutions. They also invested in Actelis Networks through multiple funding rounds, including Series C, D, and E, supporting the development of high-speed access systems. These transactions highlight NEA's active role in the telecommunications industry, showcasing their commitment to fostering innovation in telecommunication technologies.

5. Qualcomm Ventures

• Website: qualcommventures.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: San Diego, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2000
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 18
• LinkedIn: qualcomm-ventures

Qualcomm Ventures is a venture capital firm based in San Diego, California, founded in 2000. The firm specializes in investing in early to growth stage technology companies, with a strong focus on the wireless ecosystem. Qualcomm Ventures provides capital and strategic support to startups across various sectors, including automotive, digital health, and IoT. Notably, they have made significant investments in the telecommunication equipment sector, including multiple funding rounds for Siklu, a company specializing in millimeter-wave technology for wireless communications, where they participated in Series B, C, and D funding rounds. Additionally, they invested in BaiCells Technologies, which focuses on providing 4G and 5G solutions, and Reliance Jio, a major player in the telecommunications market in India. These transactions highlight Qualcomm Ventures' active role in supporting companies that are integral to the telecommunication equipment industry.

6. Goldman Sachs

• Website: goldmansachs.com
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1998
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 59
• LinkedIn: goldman-sachs

Goldman Sachs is a prominent investment bank and financial services firm based in New York, founded in 1998. It offers a wide range of services, including investment banking, asset management, and wealth management, catering to a diverse clientele of corporations, financial institutions, and individuals. In the telecommunications equipment sector, Goldman Sachs has made notable investments, such as a $24 million investment in Tejas Networks in 2007, a significant participation in the $877 million funding round for Cellnex Telecom in 2020, and involvement in the recent ₹1,000 Crore funding for Sterlite Technologies in 2024. Additionally, they invested $10.6 million in Alphion in 2005 and $130 million in IHS Towers in 2014. These transactions highlight Goldman Sachs' active role in the telecommunications equipment industry, making them a relevant investor in this space.

7. Motorola Solutions

• Website: motorolasolutions.com
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1928
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 3
• LinkedIn: motorolasolutions

Motorola Solutions, Inc. is a leading telecommunications equipment and software provider based in Chicago, Illinois, founded in 1928. The company specializes in critical communications and video security solutions, serving public safety agencies and enterprises. Their product offerings include two-way radios, body cameras, and cybersecurity services, ensuring reliable communication tools for safety and operational efficiency. Motorola Solutions has been actively involved in the telecommunications sector, as evidenced by their investments in companies like OpenCloud, where they participated in a Series B funding round, and Ruckus Wireless, which received multiple rounds of funding (Series C, D, and E) from various investors, including Motorola. These transactions highlight Motorola's commitment to advancing telecommunications technology and supporting innovative companies in the industry.

8. 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

Deep Tech Fund (an Alumni Ventures Fund) 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, leveraging a network of over 10,000 investors to connect them with high-quality investment opportunities in the startup ecosystem. The fund has been involved in several significant transactions in the telecommunications sector, including Movandi, which raised $27 million in Series C funding to enhance 5G technology, and Ayar Labs, which raised $155 million in Series D funding for its innovative optical interconnect solutions. These investments highlight the fund's engagement with companies that are pivotal in advancing telecommunications equipment and infrastructure.

9. Kkr

• Website: kkr.com
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1976
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• Number of deals in 2024: 74
• LinkedIn: kkr

KKR & Co. Inc. is a prominent investment firm based in New York, specializing in private equity, credit, infrastructure, and real estate. Founded in 1976, KKR has established itself as a global leader in asset management, providing tailored solutions to institutional investors and individual clients. The firm has made significant strides in the telecommunications sector, highlighted by its acquisition of Hitachi Kokusai Electric, where it acquired a 60% stake in the video and communication solutions business. KKR also participated in substantial funding rounds for major telecommunications companies, including a $4.6 billion investment in Reliance Jio and an $807 million investment in Singtel. Furthermore, KKR's acquisition of Deutsche Glasfaser and Sirti showcases its strategic focus on enhancing telecommunications infrastructure and services, reinforcing its role as a key player in the telecommunication equipment 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 to enhance U.S. national security by partnering with various government agencies to identify innovative solutions. IQT has been involved in several notable transactions in the telecommunications equipment sector, including investments in Lime Microsystems, which raised $3,988,233 in a Series C round in 2011, and Etherstack, which raised an undisclosed amount in a venture round in 2007. These investments highlight IQT's commitment to supporting advancements in telecommunications technology, alongside its broader focus on software and materials sciences.

11. Bessemer Venture Partners

• Website: bvp.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1911
• Headcount: 11-50
• Number of deals in 2024: 78
• LinkedIn: bessemer-venture-partners

Bessemer Venture Partners is a venture capital firm founded in 1911, based in San Francisco, California. The firm specializes in providing funding and investment management services to startups and growth-stage companies across various sectors, including technology and healthcare. Notably, Bessemer has made significant investments in the telecommunications equipment sector, including early-stage funding for Ciena in both Series B and Series C rounds, as well as a $23 million investment in Sonus Networks. Additionally, they led a Series C funding round for Affirmed Networks, a company focused on network function virtualization solutions, which highlights their commitment to supporting innovative technologies in telecommunications. With a diverse portfolio and a strong track record in the telecommunications industry, Bessemer Venture Partners plays a crucial role in helping companies scale and succeed in this competitive market.

12. Silicon Valley Bank

• Website: svb.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Santa Clara, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1983
• Headcount: 5001-10000
• Number of deals in 2024: 31
• LinkedIn: silicon-valley-bank

Silicon Valley Bank is a commercial bank founded in 1983, specializing in providing financial services to the innovation economy, particularly tech startups and venture capital firms. They offer a range of products including business banking, global payments, and asset management, helping clients navigate financial challenges and support their growth. Notably, Silicon Valley Bank has been involved in several significant transactions within the telecommunications sector, such as providing a $50 million venture round for Calix in 2009, supporting OpenCloud with a debt package in a Series B funding round, and facilitating debt financing for companies like Cambridge Broadband Networks, Boingo Wireless, and Icera. These transactions highlight their active role in financing and supporting the growth of companies in the telecommunication equipment industry.

13. Accel

• Website: accel.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Palo Alto, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1983
• Headcount: 51-200
• Number of deals in 2024: 101
• LinkedIn: accel-vc

Accel is a venture capital firm founded in 1983, based in Palo Alto, California, specializing in investing in startups and early-stage companies primarily within the technology sector. The firm has a global presence with offices in San Francisco, London, India, and China. Notably, Accel has invested in several companies within the telecommunication equipment space, including Cambridge Broadband Networks, which has raised significant funding across multiple rounds, totaling over $50 million. Additionally, Accel's investment in Sonim Technologies, which raised $8 million, highlights their involvement in the telecommunications sector, particularly in mobile communication devices. These investments reflect Accel's strategy of supporting innovative companies that are shaping the future of telecommunications.

Telecommunication Equipment Insights: Key Investors in the US

Investor	Headquarter	Size	Founded	Deals 2024
Intel Capital	Santa Clara, California, United States (USA)	11-50	1991	23
Y Combinator	San Francisco, California, United States (USA)	51-200	2005	802
Cisco	San Jose, California, United States (USA)	10001+	1984	5
New Enterprise Associates (NEA)	Menlo Park, California, United States (USA)	51-200	1977	57
Qualcomm Ventures	San Diego, California, United States (USA)	10001+	2000	18
Goldman Sachs	New York, New York, United States (USA)	10001+	1998	59
Motorola Solutions	Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)	10001+	1928	3
Deep Tech Fund (an Alumni Ventures Fund)	Manchester, New Hampshire, United States (USA)	51-200	2023	258
Kkr	New York, New York, United States (USA)	1001-5000	1976	74
IQT (In-Q-Tel)	Arlington, Virginia, United States (USA)	51-200	1999	24
Bessemer Venture Partners	San Francisco, California, United States (USA)	11-50	1911	78
Silicon Valley Bank	Santa Clara, California, United States (USA)	5001-10000	1983	31
Accel	Palo Alto, California, United States (USA)	51-200	1983	101

Want to find more investors focusing on the telecommunication equipment industry?

If you want to find more investors that are active in the telecommunication equipmentindustry, 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!