The aerospace parts manufacturing industry in the US plays a critical role in aircraft development and maintenance. It is comprised of companies that produce components like engines, avionics, and landing gears, ensuring safety and efficiency in aviation. The industry is not only pivotal in supporting commercial airlines and military operations, but it is also evolving with technological advancements such as 3D printing and sustainable materials. These innovations are expected to reduce costs and environmental impact in manufacturing processes. As air traffic grows, the demand for high-quality aerospace parts will continue to rise, leading to opportunities for growth and investment.


This list highlights notable investors in the aerospace parts manufacturing sector, including venture capital, private equity, and corporate firms. Predominantly headquartered in major cities like San Francisco and Washington, D.C., these investors vary in size, from small firms to corporate giants with thousands of employees. Established between 1912 and 2023, they participated in a significant number of deals—802 in total for 2024 alone. This substantial investment activity underscores the vital interest in enhancing aerospace innovation and addressing growing industry demands.


Top 14 Aerospace Parts Manufacturing Investors in the US


1. 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. With over 4,000 startups launched, Y Combinator has established itself as a key player in the technology startup ecosystem. Notably, Y Combinator has invested in aerospace-related companies such as Boom Supersonic, which is developing a Mach-2.2 commercial airliner called Overture, and Wright Electric, which focuses on electric aircraft. These investments highlight Y Combinator's engagement in the aerospace sector, particularly in innovative technologies that could impact aerospace parts manufacturing.


2. 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 founded in 2023, based in Manchester, New Hampshire. 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 $13 million investment in ZeroAvia, which is pioneering hydrogen-electric powertrains for aviation, and a $100 million investment in Ursa Major, a company developing advanced rocket engines. These transactions highlight the fund's commitment to supporting innovative technologies in aerospace, aligning with its deep tech focus.


3. 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 established in 1958, headquartered in Washington, D.C. It is primarily focused on civil space programs and aeronautics research, conducting space exploration missions and supporting the International Space Station. NASA plays a crucial role in developing advanced spacecraft and technologies, collaborating with various aerospace companies. In 2023, NASA finalized a $3.2 billion contract with Boeing for the manufacture of core and upper stages for the Space Launch System (SLS) rockets, which are essential for future Artemis missions. Additionally, NASA awarded $253.4 million to GE Aviation and MagniX for developing electric propulsion technologies, further emphasizing its commitment to advancing aerospace manufacturing. NASA has also funded commercial space station concepts, including a $125.6 million award to Northrop Grumman, showcasing its investment in innovative aerospace solutions. Through these transactions, NASA not only supports aerospace parts manufacturing but also drives technological advancements in the industry.


4. 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 parts manufacturing industry, with transactions involving companies such as ACT Aerospace and Numet Machining Techniques. These investments, primarily in the form of debt financing, highlight their commitment to supporting businesses in the aerospace sector. In 2024, they further expanded their portfolio by investing in Malones CNC Machining Inc., which is also relevant to aerospace manufacturing. This diverse investment strategy showcases Advantage Capital's flexibility in capital solutions and their role in fostering growth in underserved communities, including those in the aerospace industry.


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 complex landscape of these sectors. Starburst's clientele includes startups, corporations, and government entities looking to enhance their technological capabilities and secure funding. Notably, they have been involved in several relevant transactions, including funding for Atomic-6, an innovative aerospace company, and Canopy Aerospace, which raised funds in a seed round. Their investments in companies like ZeroAvia and Launcher further demonstrate their commitment to advancing aerospace technologies, making them a significant player in the aerospace parts manufacturing context.


6. 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 specializing in aerospace and military technologies. The company is known for its advanced solutions provided to government entities, including the U.S. Department of Defense. In 2023, Lockheed Martin made a notable $20 million equity investment in Sintavia, acquiring an 18% stake in the company, which focuses on additive manufacturing for advanced thermodynamic components used in aerospace applications, including the F-35 fighter jet. Additionally, Lockheed Martin Ventures participated in funding rounds for Agile Space Industries, a provider of in-space propulsion solutions, and X-Bow Launch Systems, which is developing solid rocket motor technology. These transactions highlight Lockheed Martin's commitment to enhancing aerospace capabilities and its strategic investments in companies that are integral to the aerospace parts manufacturing industry.


7. Ametek

  • Website: ametek.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Berwyn, Pennsylvania, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1930
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 1
  • LinkedIn: ametek

AMETEK, Inc. is a corporate investor based in Berwyn, Pennsylvania, specializing in the manufacturing of electronic instruments and electromechanical devices. Founded in 1930, the company provides advanced analytical and measurement solutions across various sectors, including aerospace, energy, and medical. Ametek has made significant strides in the aerospace industry through strategic acquisitions, including B&S Aircraft in 2007, Muirhead Aerospace Limited in 2008, Southern Aeroparts Inc in 2006, and Aero Components International Corp. in 2012. These acquisitions have bolstered Ametek's capabilities in aerospace and defense markets, particularly in areas such as avionics repair and aerospace aftermarket services, showcasing its commitment to innovation and operational excellence in addressing complex challenges faced by its customers in the aerospace sector.


8. 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 that designs, manufactures, and sells a diverse range of products including airplanes, rotorcraft, rockets, and satellites. With over 10,000 employees, Boeing serves 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 is expected to enhance its aerospace parts manufacturing capabilities. Additionally, Boeing finalized the acquisition of De Havilland Canada for US$130 million, aimed at modernizing manufacturing facilities and ensuring the continuation of product lines. These transactions highlight Boeing's active role in the aerospace parts manufacturing industry, alongside their previous acquisitions such as AeroInfo Systems and Aurora Flight Sciences, which further bolster their technological and service offerings in aviation.


9. 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 serves both commercial and military aircraft manufacturers and operators, providing critical components that ensure the safety and reliability of aircraft operations. TransDigm operates through a disciplined acquisition strategy, focusing on proprietary aerospace businesses with significant aftermarket content. Notable transactions include the acquisition of DART Aerospace for approximately $360 million, which enhances their offerings in helicopter mission equipment solutions. Additionally, their acquisition of AmSafe Global Holdings for around $750 million underscores their commitment to safety and restraint equipment in the aerospace industry. Other significant acquisitions include Arkwin Industries and SCHROTH Safety Products, both of which contribute to TransDigm's strong presence in the aerospace parts manufacturing sector.


10. 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 specializes in investing in early-stage technology companies, with a focus 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 within the tech ecosystem. Notably, Intel Capital has participated in several transactions that have implications for the aerospace industry, including investments in 3D Glass Solutions, which raised $30 million in a Series C funding round to enhance its manufacturing capacity for products that could be utilized in aerospace applications. Their collaboration with Lockheed Martin Ventures in this investment further emphasizes their engagement in sectors that intersect with aerospace parts manufacturing. Other investments, such as those in Skyport Systems and Fictiv, while not directly related to aerospace parts, showcase Intel Capital's broader interest in advanced manufacturing and technology solutions that could support aerospace innovations.


11. The Carlyle Group

  • Website: carlyle.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Washington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1987
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 25
  • LinkedIn: the-carlyle-group

The Carlyle Group Inc. is a prominent investment management firm founded in 1987, headquartered in Washington, D.C. Specializing in private equity, real assets, and private credit, Carlyle serves a diverse range of institutional investors, including pension funds and sovereign wealth funds. With a global presence and extensive expertise, Carlyle aims to drive long-term value for its clients. In the aerospace sector, Carlyle has made significant investments, including the acquisition of Nordam Group, an aerospace repair and manufacturing company, which was crucial for the company's exit from Chapter 11 bankruptcy. This investment is expected to support Nordam's growth and legacy in the aerospace industry. Additionally, Carlyle has acquired other aerospace-related companies such as StandardAero and Paradigm Precision, further demonstrating their active role in the aerospace parts manufacturing industry. These strategic investments highlight Carlyle's commitment to enhancing the capabilities and growth of aerospace manufacturers.


12. Heico

  • Website: heico.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Hollywood, Florida, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1957
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 2
  • LinkedIn: heico-aerospace

HEICO Corporation, founded in 1957 and based in Hollywood, Florida, is a leading aerospace manufacturer specializing in FAA-approved aircraft replacement parts and repair services. The company serves major airlines and military organizations, providing essential components and solutions that enhance operational efficiency and safety in aviation. Heico's extensive product offerings and commitment to quality position them as a trusted partner in the aerospace and defense sectors. In recent years, Heico has made significant acquisitions to bolster its presence in the aerospace parts manufacturing industry. Notably, the acquisition of Wencor Group for $2.05 billion marks Heico's largest purchase to date, expected to close in January 2024. Additionally, the acquisition of Carbon by Design in 2017, which specializes in complex carbon composites for commercial launch vehicles and spacecraft, enhances Heico's offerings in the commercial aviation and space markets. Furthermore, the acquisition of Blue Aerospace, a supplier of military aircraft parts, underscores Heico's strategic focus on expanding its aerospace capabilities. These transactions reflect Heico's active engagement in the aerospace parts manufacturing sector.


13. 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 enhance U.S. national security. IQT collaborates with various government agencies to identify and support innovative solutions in areas such as software and materials sciences. Among its notable transactions, IQT participated in a $100 million Series B funding round for Hermeus, a company developing advanced aircraft, which highlights its engagement in the aerospace sector. Additionally, IQT has invested in companies like Morpheus Space, which, while primarily focused on space technology, also contributes to the broader aerospace industry. These investments reflect IQT's commitment to fostering innovation that can have implications for aerospace parts manufacturing and related technologies.


14. Khosla Ventures

  • Website: khoslaventures.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Menlo Park, California, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2004
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 97
  • LinkedIn: khosla-ventures

Khosla Ventures is a venture capital firm founded in 2004 and based in Menlo Park, California. The firm specializes in providing funding and strategic guidance to startups, particularly in technology, healthcare, and sustainability sectors. Notably, Khosla Ventures has made significant investments in the aerospace industry, including funding rounds for Hermeus, a company developing advanced aircraft, and Rocket Lab, a prominent player in the space launch sector. In 2022, Khosla Ventures participated in a $100 million Series B funding round for Hermeus, which aims to complete the development of its aircraft and begin flight operations. Additionally, they were involved in earlier funding rounds for Hermeus, including a $16 million Series A in 2020 and a seed round in 2019. Khosla Ventures also invested in Rocket Lab, contributing to their Series E funding round of $140 million in 2018, which was aimed at scaling production of the Electron rocket. These transactions highlight Khosla Ventures' active role in supporting aerospace innovation and manufacturing.



Aerospace Parts Manufacturing Insights: Key Investors in the US


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
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
Advantage CapitalNew Orleans, Louisiana, United States (USA)51-20019925
StarburstEl Segundo, California, United States (USA)51-20020123
Lockheed MartinBethesda, Maryland, United States (USA)10001+191219
AmetekBerwyn, Pennsylvania, United States (USA)10001+19301
BoeingArlington, Virginia, United States (USA)10001+20027
TransDigm Group Inc.Cleveland, Ohio, United States (USA)10001+19932
Intel CapitalSanta Clara, California, United States (USA)11-50199123
The Carlyle GroupWashington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)1001-5000198725
HeicoHollywood, Florida, United States (USA)1001-500019572
IQT (In-Q-Tel)Arlington, Virginia, United States (USA)51-200199924
Khosla VenturesMenlo Park, California, United States (USA)51-200200497


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