Top 15 Satellite Manufacturing Investors in the US
Top 15 Satellite Manufacturing Investors in the US
The satellite manufacturing industry in the US is pivotal in shaping how we connect, communicate, and observe our planet. Companies in this sector design, build, and operate satellites for various applications, including telecommunications, Earth monitoring, and scientific research. Key players range from established aerospace giants to innovative startups that leverage cutting-edge technology, particularly in miniaturization and propulsion systems. The industry is ramping up in response to the growing demand for satellite services, with a notable shift towards smaller, more cost-effective satellites. As of now, sustainability and debris mitigation are critical themes guiding future developments, marking a decisive change in industry practices.
This article highlights the top satellite manufacturing investors in the US, showcasing a mix of venture capital firms and corporate giants. The investors range from established names like Intel Capital, based in Santa Clara, to innovative newcomers like Deep Tech Fund in New Hampshire. With sizes varying from small teams to large organizations, these investors have collectively reported significant deal counts in 2024. Whether focusing on early-stage technology or government-backed initiatives, their impact on the sector will drive growth and innovation as they seize emerging opportunities and trends in satellite manufacturing.
Top 15 Satellite 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 helps entrepreneurs launch and grow their businesses. Y Combinator has successfully launched over 4,000 startups, making it a key player in the technology startup ecosystem. Among its notable investments, Y Combinator has funded Turion Space, which raised $125,000 in a Pre-Seed round in June 2021, focusing on satellite technology. Additionally, Y Combinator has invested in Relativity Space, a company that has raised significant funding across multiple rounds, including $140 million in Series C and $35 million in Series B, both of which are relevant to the satellite manufacturing and launch industry. These transactions highlight Y Combinator's active role in supporting innovative companies within the satellite manufacturing sector.
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
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 actively involved in the satellite manufacturing industry, with notable investments including Phase Four, a company focused on satellite propulsion technology, and Starfish Space, which raised $29 million in Series A funding in 2024 for its satellite services. Additionally, the fund has connections to Capella Space, a specialist in SAR satellite data, which raised $97 million in Series C financing to expand its satellite capabilities. These transactions highlight the fund's commitment to investing in innovative technologies within the satellite sector.
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 focused on civil space programs and aeronautics research, founded in 1958. With over 10,000 employees, NASA conducts space exploration missions, supports the International Space Station, and develops advanced spacecraft. In recent transactions, NASA has finalized a $3.2 billion contract with Boeing for the manufacture of core and upper stages for future Space Launch System (SLS) rockets, which are integral to satellite deployment and space exploration. Additionally, NASA has awarded significant grants to SpaceX for various projects, including satellite launches, and has funded Northrop Grumman for its work on satellite servicing through the Cygnus cargo spacecraft. These transactions highlight NASA's commitment to advancing satellite technology and its collaborative efforts with leading aerospace companies.
4. Starburst
- Website: starburst.aero
- Type: Venture Capital
- Headquarters: El Segundo, California, United States (USA)
- Founded year: 2012
- Headcount: 51-200
- Number of deals in 2024: 3
- LinkedIn: starburst-aerospace-accelerator
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, Starburst has been involved in several relevant transactions in the satellite manufacturing context, including investments in Reflex Aerospace, which raised $1.9 million in a seed round, and Modularity Space, which secured funding in a venture round. Additionally, they have invested in Morpheus Space and Starfish Space, both of which are engaged in satellite technology development. These transactions highlight Starburst's active role in supporting the growth of companies within the satellite manufacturing industry.
5. 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. Intel Capital provides funding, strategic support, and access to Intel's extensive resources to help startups scale and innovate within the tech ecosystem. Notably, Intel Capital has invested in Skylo Technologies, a non-terrestrial network service provider, which raised significant funding to enhance connectivity for smartphones and IoT devices, indicating a strategic interest in satellite communications. Additionally, their investment in Delair, a global supplier of commercial drone solutions, further showcases their engagement in technologies that may intersect with satellite applications. These transactions highlight Intel Capital's potential relevance in the satellite manufacturing sector.
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 based in Bethesda, Maryland, is a leading defense contractor specializing 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. Recently, Lockheed Martin has made significant strides in the satellite manufacturing sector, notably through their definitive agreement to acquire Terran Orbital for approximately $450 million, which is expected to close in Q4 2024. This acquisition aims to bolster Lockheed Martin's satellite manufacturing capabilities. Furthermore, Lockheed Martin has previously invested $100 million in Terran Orbital through convertible notes and warrants, showcasing their strategic interest in the satellite industry. Their involvement in various funding rounds for Terran Orbital, including a Series B round, highlights their commitment to expanding satellite manufacturing and technology.
7. 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 invests in technology startups to enhance U.S. national security, partnering with various government agencies to identify innovative solutions in areas such as software and materials sciences. IQT has been involved in several notable transactions within the satellite manufacturing context, including a Series A investment in Apex, a spacecraft mass manufacturing company, which raised $16M to expand its production capabilities. Additionally, IQT participated in funding rounds for ClearSpace, a company focused on sustainable space operations and debris removal, highlighting its commitment to supporting technologies that impact the satellite industry. These investments reflect IQT's strategic interest in advancing capabilities that are crucial for national security and space operations.
8. 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 participated in several significant transactions within the satellite manufacturing context. They led a seed round for Alba Orbital, which raised $3.4 million to scale satellite manufacturing. They also invested in Momentus, which raised $25.5 million in Series A funding to support satellite transportation services. Additionally, their investment in Quindar, which raised $2.5 million for its mission management software for satellite constellations, highlights their commitment to the satellite industry. Overall, Liquid 2 Ventures is focused on supporting exceptional founders to build lasting companies, including those in the satellite manufacturing sector.
9. 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 leading aerospace manufacturer that designs, manufactures, and sells a wide range of products, including airplanes, rotorcraft, rockets, and satellites. Boeing serves commercial airlines, government agencies, and military organizations, providing innovative solutions for safe and efficient air travel and defense capabilities. Notably, Boeing has made strategic acquisitions to enhance its satellite and space portfolio, including the acquisition of Millennium Space Systems, a company specializing in small-satellite solutions, announced on August 16, 2018. This acquisition allows Boeing to strengthen its position in the satellite market. Additionally, Boeing's acquisition of Hughes Electronics Corporation's space and communications business for $3.75 billion in cash on January 13, 2000, significantly boosted its revenues and established it as a leader in integrated space-based information and communications. Furthermore, Boeing HorizonX Ventures led a Series B funding round for Accion Systems, which raised $11 million to produce thrusters for satellites, showcasing Boeing's active investment in satellite technology development.
10. Space Capital
- Website: spacecapital.com
- Type: Venture Capital
- Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
- Founded year: 2012
- Headcount: 1-10
- Number of deals in 2024: 3
- LinkedIn: spacecapital
Space Capital is a venture capital fund based in New York, specializing in early-stage investments in space technology companies. Founded in 2012, the firm focuses on unlocking the value in space technology stacks and provides both capital and strategic support to startups in the space sector. Their portfolio reflects a commitment to the growth of the space economy. Notably, Space Capital has participated in significant funding rounds for companies like ICEYE, which is known for its SAR satellite constellation, and Made In Space, which focuses on in-space manufacturing technologies. Their investments in SpaceX, which raised substantial funds in 2018 and 2019, further highlight their active role in the satellite and broader space industry.
11. United States Department of Defense
- Website: defense.gov
- Type: Corporate
- Headquarters: Washington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)
- Founded year: 1949
- Headcount: 10001+
- Number of deals in 2024: 53
- LinkedIn: deptofdefense
The United States Department of Defense (DoD) is a public entity responsible for national security and military operations, founded in 1949. It provides military forces and services to deter war and ensure the safety of the nation. The DoD serves government entities and allied nations, focusing on military readiness and disaster response efforts. In recent years, the DoD has actively engaged in funding satellite manufacturing and related technologies through grants. Notable transactions include a $72 million grant to Northrop Grumman, a key player in satellite systems, and a $3 million grant to Portal Space Systems, which specializes in satellite technology. Other relevant grants include $3 million to Accion Systems and $2.9 million to Comtech Telecommunications, both of which contribute to satellite and telecommunications advancements. These investments highlight the DoD's commitment to enhancing military capabilities through satellite technology.
12. Airbus Ventures
- Website: airbusventures.vc
- Type: Venture Capital
- Headquarters: Menlo Park, California, United States (USA)
- Founded year: 2016
- Headcount: 1-10
- Number of deals in 2024: 8
- LinkedIn: airbus-ventures
Airbus Ventures is a venture capital firm founded in 2016, based in Menlo Park, California. The firm specializes in investing in deep tech startups across various sectors, including aerospace, autonomous mobility, and advanced materials. Airbus Ventures provides not only capital but also strategic support to entrepreneurs, helping them navigate the complexities of bringing innovative technologies to market. Among their notable transactions, they have invested in Isar Aerospace, which focuses on launch services for small satellites, raising significant funds in multiple rounds (Series A, B, and C). Additionally, they co-led a €40 million Series B funding round for Aerospacelab, a company dedicated to increasing satellite production capacity and deploying satellite constellations for Earth monitoring. These investments underscore Airbus Ventures' commitment to fostering growth in the satellite manufacturing sector.
13. 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 context of satellite manufacturing, the Government of Canada has been involved in several notable transactions, including a grant of $53.7 million to Maxar Technologies in 2018, which is a key player in satellite technology. Additionally, in 2024, the government participated in a significant post-IPO debt transaction for Telesat, raising approximately $1.87 billion, highlighting its commitment to supporting the satellite industry. Other transactions include grants to Canadian UAVs and General Dynamics Mission Systems - Canada, further demonstrating its engagement in sectors related to satellite technology and manufacturing.
14. Lux Capital
- Website: luxcapital.com
- Type: Venture Capital
- Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
- Founded year: 2000
- Headcount: 11-50
- Number of deals in 2024: 47
- LinkedIn: lux-capital
Lux Capital is a venture capital firm based in New York, specializing in investing in science and technology companies. Founded in 2000, the firm provides venture capital investment and advisory services to startups across various innovative sectors. Lux Capital has been involved in several significant transactions within the satellite manufacturing context, including multiple rounds of investment in Kymeta, a company that develops satellite communications technology, raising substantial amounts such as $62 million in a Series D round and $50 million in a Series C round. Additionally, their early investment in Relativity Space, which focuses on 3D-printed rockets, further demonstrates their engagement in the satellite and aerospace sectors. This focus on companies at the forefront of technological advancements positions Lux Capital as a relevant player in the satellite manufacturing industry.
15. Gaingels
- Website: gaingels.com
- Type: Venture Capital
- Headquarters: Burlington, Vermont, United States (USA)
- Founded year: 2015
- Headcount: 11-50
- Number of deals in 2024: 60
- LinkedIn: gaingels
Gaingels is a venture capital firm founded in 2015, based in Burlington, Vermont, dedicated to investing in companies with diverse leadership. The firm provides capital and support to startups, particularly those led by underrepresented groups, to foster diversity and inclusion in the innovation economy. In addition to their scholarship programs and advisory services aimed at enhancing board diversity, Gaingels has made notable investments in the satellite manufacturing sector. They participated in a $4.7 million seed round for Turion Space, a startup focused on satellite servicing and space debris removal. They also invested in Radian Aerospace, which raised $27.5 million to develop an orbital space plane, and in Gravitics, which aims to be a core supplier for space stations and in-space habitats. These transactions highlight Gaingels' commitment to supporting innovative companies in the satellite industry while promoting diversity in leadership.
Satellite Manufacturing Insights: Key Investors in the US
| Investor | Headquarter | Size | Founded | Deals 2024 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Y Combinator | San Francisco, California, United States (USA) | 51-200 | 2005 | 802 |
| Deep Tech Fund (an Alumni Ventures Fund) | Manchester, New Hampshire, United States (USA) | 51-200 | 2023 | 258 |
| NASA - National Aeronautics and Space Administration | Washington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA) | 10001+ | 1958 | 24 |
| Starburst | El Segundo, California, United States (USA) | 51-200 | 2012 | 3 |
| Intel Capital | Santa Clara, California, United States (USA) | 11-50 | 1991 | 23 |
| Lockheed Martin | Bethesda, Maryland, United States (USA) | 10001+ | 1912 | 19 |
| IQT (In-Q-Tel) | Arlington, Virginia, United States (USA) | 51-200 | 1999 | 24 |
| Liquid 2 Ventures | San Francisco, California, United States (USA) | 1-10 | 2015 | 91 |
| Boeing | Arlington, Virginia, United States (USA) | 10001+ | 2002 | 7 |
| Space Capital | New York, New York, United States (USA) | 1-10 | 2012 | 3 |
| United States Department of Defense | Washington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA) | 10001+ | 1949 | 53 |
| Airbus Ventures | Menlo Park, California, United States (USA) | 1-10 | 2016 | 8 |
| Government of Canada | Canada, Kentucky, United States (USA) | 10001+ | 1999 | 137 |
| Lux Capital | New York, New York, United States (USA) | 11-50 | 2000 | 47 |
| Gaingels | Burlington, Vermont, United States (USA) | 11-50 | 2015 | 60 |
Want to find more investors focusing on the satellite manufacturing industry?
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