The rocket engine manufacturing industry in Europe has seen significant growth in recent years, characterized by a shift towards innovative propulsion solutions. This sector includes a mix of established aerospace giants like Airbus and Safran and nimble startups focusing on advanced technologies and sustainable propulsion systems. Companies in this industry develop a range of products, from traditional chemical engines to cutting-edge electric propulsion solutions. With the rise of NewSpace ventures and increasing demand for satellite launches, the industry's trajectory points towards more environmentally friendly designs and increased collaborations between public and private entities, positioning Europe as a future hub for space exploration.


The investors listed here represent a spectrum of corporate, venture capital, and private equity firms that are pivotal in shaping the rocket engine manufacturing ecosystem in Europe. Predominantly located in key cities like Paris, London, and Munich, these investors vary in size from small firms to multinational corporations, with founding years ranging from 1908 to 2015. In 2024 alone, these investors collectively completed a notable array of investments across the industry, with deal counts highlighting an ongoing enthusiasm for funding innovation and technology in aerospace.


Top 15 Rocket Engine Manufacturing Investors in Europe


1. European Innovation Council (EIC)


The European Innovation Council (EIC) is a public entity based in Brussels, Belgium, established to support innovation and entrepreneurship across Europe. Founded in 1958, the EIC offers various funding programs, including the EIC Accelerator and EIC Pathfinder, aimed at helping startups and SMEs develop and scale their technologies. The EIC also provides business acceleration services, networking opportunities, and prizes to foster innovation across different sectors. In the context of rocket engine manufacturing, the EIC has been involved in several notable transactions, including grants to Dawn Aerospace and ThrustMe, both of which are engaged in developing propulsion technologies. Additionally, Aurora Propulsion Technologies has received both seed funding and grants from the EIC, further emphasizing its commitment to supporting innovation in the aerospace and rocket engine sectors.


2. Bpifrance French Tech Accélération


Bpifrance French Tech Accélération is a venture capital firm based in Paris, Île-De-France, France, founded in 2015. As a public entity and financial institution, Bpifrance supports entrepreneurs and businesses in France and internationally through various services, including direct funding, export credit insurance, and private equity investments. The firm aims to foster entrepreneurship and innovation, helping businesses navigate growth and international expansion. In the context of the rocket engine manufacturing industry, Bpifrance has been involved in significant transactions such as investing in Latitude, a French NewSpace company that is developing the Zephyr launcher, and Exotrail, a space logistics provider that raised substantial funding to bring its products to market. These investments highlight Bpifrance's role in supporting companies that are directly or indirectly related to rocket technology and manufacturing.


3. Seraphim Space

  • Website: seraphim.vc
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 2016
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 27
  • LinkedIn: seraphim-capital

Seraphim Space is a London-based venture capital firm founded in 2016, specializing in SpaceTech investments. They provide funding and support to startups in the space technology sector through various investment funds and an accelerator program. Their focus is on helping entrepreneurs navigate the challenges of developing innovative space solutions. Notably, Seraphim Space has participated in several relevant transactions, including an investment in Auriga Space, which secured $5 million to develop electromagnetic technology for space launch, and Skyrora, which is engaged in the development of small satellite launch vehicles. These investments highlight their commitment to advancing technologies that are integral to rocket engine manufacturing and space launch capabilities.


4. Safran

  • Website: safran-group.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Paris, Île-De-France, France
  • Founded year: 2005
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 9
  • LinkedIn: safran

Safran is a corporate investor based in Paris, Île-De-France, France, specializing in aerospace manufacturing and defense contracting. Founded in 2005, the company has a workforce of over 10,000 employees and is known for its innovative solutions that enhance safety and operational efficiency in aviation and defense sectors. In 2017, Safran made a significant acquisition of Zodiac Aerospace for over $9 billion, expanding its capabilities in aerospace technologies. More recently, in 2022, Safran co-invested in Cranfield Aerospace Solutions Ltd, which is focused on developing hydrogen-electric propulsion systems, indicating their interest in sustainable propulsion technologies. This investment aligns with their strategic focus on technological advancement and sustainability in the aerospace industry. Additionally, Safran's acquisition of Preligens in 2024 further demonstrates their active engagement in the aerospace sector, although it is more aligned with defense technologies. Overall, Safran's activities reflect a strong commitment to propulsion systems, making them a relevant investor in the rocket engine manufacturing context.


5. Bgf

  • Website: bgf.co.uk
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 2011
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 53
  • LinkedIn: bgfinvestments

BGF Investment Management Limited is a venture capital firm based in London, England, founded in 2011. The firm specializes in providing growth funding and value creation support to small and mid-sized businesses in the UK and Ireland. BGF addresses the funding gap in the market through minority investments and extensive support services. Notably, BGF has been involved in significant transactions within the rocket engine manufacturing context, particularly with Orbex Space. They participated in multiple funding rounds for Orbex, including a £40.4 million Series C round in October 2022 and a Series B round in December 2020, totaling over $20 million in investments. These investments are aimed at scaling up resources for Orbex's maiden flight of its Prime launch vehicle, showcasing BGF's active role in the rocket launch sector.


6. Scottish Enterprise


Scottish Enterprise is a public entity established in 1991, dedicated to fostering economic development in Scotland. With a workforce of 1001-5000, it provides a variety of services including funding, business development advice, and support for innovation and exports. In 2024, Scottish Enterprise was involved in 55 investments, showcasing its active role in supporting businesses. Among its notable transactions, Scottish Enterprise invested in Aurora Avionics, a space technology start-up that raised funds to enhance research and design for rocket control systems. This investment highlights their commitment to advancing technology in the rocket sector. Additionally, they supported Craft Prospect Limited, which is engaged in space missions, indicating their broader interest in the space industry, including rocket engine manufacturing. Their involvement in these transactions positions them as a significant player in the economic landscape of Scotland's space technology sector.


7. Omnes

  • Website: omnescapital.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Paris, Île-De-France, France
  • Founded year: 1999
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 8
  • LinkedIn: omnes-capital

Omnes Capital is a private equity firm based in Paris, Île-De-France, France, founded in 1999. The firm specializes in investment management with a focus on sectors such as renewable energy and sustainable cities. Omnes emphasizes long-term partnerships to foster growth and sustainability in critical infrastructure projects. Notably, they have been involved in significant transactions, including a recent investment in The Exploration Company, which raised $158 million in a Series B round in November 2024. This company is working on a reusable space capsule, Nyx, which is directly relevant to the aerospace sector and, by extension, rocket engine manufacturing. Additionally, they participated in a €40.5 million Series A funding round for The Exploration Company in February 2023, further demonstrating their interest in the aerospace industry. Other investments, such as those in 3D Plus and ARX Robotics, while not directly related to rocket engines, indicate a diverse portfolio that includes technology and innovation sectors.


8. Baillie Gifford

  • Website: bailliegifford.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 1908
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 13
  • LinkedIn: baillie-gifford

Baillie Gifford & Co is an investment management firm based in Edinburgh, Scotland, specializing in managing equity, fixed-income, and multi-asset portfolios. Founded in 1908, the firm serves professional investors, including institutions and high-net-worth individuals, by providing expert investment management and advisory services focused on long-term growth opportunities. Baillie Gifford employs a research-driven approach to deliver sustainable returns for its clients. Notably, the firm has made significant investments in the aerospace sector, including a $486 million investment in SpaceX during its Series J funding round in December 2018, and a $650 million investment in Relativity Space during its Series E funding round in June 2021. Additionally, Baillie Gifford participated in a $500 million Series D funding round for Relativity Space in November 2020, which aims to advance the company's initiatives in launch vehicle development and 3D printing technologies. These transactions highlight Baillie Gifford's active role in supporting companies that are pivotal to the future of rocket engine manufacturing.


9. Airbus

  • Website: airbus.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Blagnac, Occitanie, France
  • Founded year: 2003
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 6
  • LinkedIn: airbusgroup

Airbus SE is a leading aerospace manufacturer based in Blagnac, Occitanie, France, specializing in the design and production of commercial aircraft, helicopters, defense systems, and space technology. Founded in 2003, Airbus serves a global customer base, including airlines, military organizations, and space agencies, providing innovative solutions that enhance connectivity, security, and exploration. In 2024, Airbus participated in a Series C funding round for ZeroAvia, which raised $34 million to support the certification of its hydrogen-powered engine and the development of larger engines for commercial aircraft applications. This investment highlights Airbus's commitment to advancing aerospace technology and sustainability, particularly in the context of engine innovation. Additionally, Airbus has a history of strategic acquisitions, such as Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd., which further emphasizes its focus on expanding its capabilities in the aerospace sector.


10. Bayern Kapital

  • Website: bayernkapital.de
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Landshut, Bavaria, Germany
  • Founded year: 1995
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 27
  • LinkedIn: bayern-kapital-gmbh

Bayern Kapital is a venture capital firm based in Landshut, Bavaria, Germany, founded in 1995. The firm specializes in providing investment and growth capital to innovative high-tech startups and scale-ups in Bavaria. Bayern Kapital supports its clients with financial resources and access to a network of industry experts, helping them navigate the challenges of growth and development in various sectors, including life sciences and software. Notably, Bayern Kapital has made significant investments in the rocket engine manufacturing sector, including a substantial Series C funding round for Isar Aerospace, which raised over €155 million to advance its rocket engine development and production capabilities. This investment highlights Bayern Kapital's commitment to fostering innovation in the aerospace industry, particularly in the development of rocket engines. Additionally, they have participated in funding rounds for other aerospace-related companies, further solidifying their position as a relevant player in the rocket engine manufacturing investment landscape.


11. Future Planet Capital


Future Planet Capital is a venture capital firm based in London, England, founded in 2015. They manage over $400M in assets and focus on impact-led investments that address global challenges, aligning with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Their investment strategy includes supporting high-growth companies across various sectors. Notably, Future Planet Capital has invested in Oxford Space Systems, a company that specializes in developing innovative technologies for the aerospace industry, including satellite systems and components that could be relevant to rocket engine manufacturing. Their transactions include multiple funding rounds for Oxford Space Systems, indicating a commitment to supporting advancements in aerospace technology.


12. Possible Ventures

  • Website: possible.ventures
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Munich, Bavaria, Germany
  • Founded year: 2021
  • Headcount: 1-10
  • Number of deals in 2024: 9
  • LinkedIn: possible-vc

Possible Ventures is a venture capital firm based in Munich, Bavaria, Germany, founded in 2021. The firm focuses on innovative startups across various sectors, including fintech, but has also shown a significant interest in the space industry. Notably, Possible Ventures participated in the funding round for Auriga Space, which is developing electromagnetic technology for space launch, and InSpacePropulsion Technologies, which is working on propulsion solutions. These investments highlight Possible Ventures' commitment to supporting advancements in space technology, including areas related to rocket engine manufacturing.


13. CDP Venture Capital SGR


CDP Venture Capital SGR is a venture capital firm based in Rome, Italy, founded in 2015. The firm focuses on supporting startups and innovative companies across various sectors in Italy, providing financial backing and strategic resources for growth. Notably, CDP Venture Capital has been involved in several transactions within the aerospace industry, including investments in Sidereus Space Dynamics, which raised €5.1M for pre-flight and flight test phases, and D-Orbit, a company specializing in space logistics that raised significant funding in Series C rounds. Additionally, their participation in funding rounds for Picosats, a company working on advanced satellite technology, further emphasizes their engagement in the aerospace sector, which is closely related to rocket engine manufacturing.


14. Verve Ventures

  • Website: verve.vc
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
  • Founded year: 2010
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 25
  • LinkedIn: investiere-venture-capital

Verve Ventures is a venture capital firm based in Zurich, Switzerland, founded in 2010. The firm specializes in deep tech investments across Europe, providing funding and strategic support to science and technology startups. Their investment focus includes sectors such as climate tech, industrial technology, and health & bio. Notably, Verve Ventures participated in a Series C funding round for Orbex Space, a UK-based launch startup, which raised £40.4 million to scale up resources for its Prime launch vehicle. This investment highlights their engagement in the aerospace sector, particularly in companies involved in rocket launch technologies. Additionally, they have invested in other innovative startups like 9T Labs, which, while not directly related to rocket engines, showcases their commitment to supporting advanced technology ventures.


15. Ldc

  • Website: ldc.co.uk
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 1981
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 15
  • LinkedIn: ldc

Lloyds Development Capital (Holdings) Limited, known as LDC, is a private equity firm based in London, England, that specializes in providing growth capital and strategic support to mid-market businesses across various sectors. Founded in 1981, LDC is part of Lloyds Banking Group and focuses on helping management teams achieve their growth ambitions through investment and advisory services. Notable transactions include the acquisition of MB Aerospace in 2007, which is involved in aerospace engineering and manufacturing, including components for rocket engines. Additionally, LDC has made significant investments in companies like Angus Fire, AIM Altitude, and Precision Micro, showcasing their diverse portfolio and experience in supporting businesses that may intersect with the aerospace and defense industries.



Rocket Engine Manufacturing Insights: Key Investors in Europe


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
European Innovation Council (EIC)Brussels, Brussels, Belgium201-500195857
Bpifrance French Tech AccélérationParis, Île-De-France, France1-102015198
Seraphim SpaceLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)11-50201627
SafranParis, Île-De-France, France10001+20059
BgfLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)51-200201153
Scottish EnterpriseGlasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)1001-5000199155
OmnesParis, Île-De-France, France51-20019998
Baillie GiffordEdinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)1001-5000190813
AirbusBlagnac, Occitanie, France10001+20036
Bayern KapitalLandshut, Bavaria, Germany11-50199527
Future Planet CapitalLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)11-5020157
Possible VenturesMunich, Bavaria, Germany1-1020219
CDP Venture Capital SGRRome, Lazio, Italy51-200201541
Verve VenturesZurich, Zurich, Switzerland11-50201025
LdcLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)51-200198115


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