The aerospace manufacturing industry in Europe is a dynamic powerhouse fueling innovations in aviation and space technologies. This sector includes companies involved in crafting aircraft, satellite systems, and advanced propulsion solutions. Major players, ranging from established aircraft manufacturers to emerging tech startups, are pioneering advancements in sustainable aviation and space exploration. Notably, the industry is embracing eco-friendly technologies, such as electric and hybrid systems, in response to environmental challenges. With increasing investments and collaborations, Europe aims to solidify its position as a forefront leader in aerospace. As projects transition from concept to reality, the future promises exciting developments in aerial mobility and space ventures.


The list highlights a blend of corporate and venture capital investors concentrated in key European cities. Operating from locations like Paris, Brussels, and London, these investors vary in size from small firms to large public entities. Founded within diverse timeframes, with origins dating back to the mid-20th century, many deepened their impact in 2024, making notable deals. Investment counts reflect their strategic commitment to the aerospace manufacturing sector, showcasing an active pursuit of innovation. Among them are the European Innovation Council, with 57 investments, and Seraphim Space, focused on funding future-ready space technologies.


Top 16 Aerospace Manufacturing Investors in Europe


1. Bpifrance French Tech Accélération


Bpifrance French Tech Accélération is a venture capital investor 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 institution aims to foster entrepreneurship and innovation, helping businesses navigate growth and international expansion. Bpifrance has been involved in several notable transactions in the aerospace sector, including a significant investment in Exotrail, a French space logistics provider that raised $58 million in a Series B round led by Bpifrance. This funding is intended to bring their spacedrop and spacetower products to market. Additionally, Bpifrance participated in the acquisition of Sabena technics, a company that provides maintenance and services in the aerospace industry, further demonstrating its commitment to supporting aerospace manufacturing and innovation.


2. 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. Notably, the EIC has been involved in significant transactions within the aerospace manufacturing context, such as its participation in Heart Aerospace's Series B funding round, where the company raised $107 million to advance its hybrid-electric aeroplane project. Additionally, the EIC has provided grants to aerospace-related companies like Dawn Aerospace and ThrustMe, further emphasizing its commitment to supporting innovation in the aerospace sector.


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 primary focus is on helping entrepreneurs navigate the challenges of developing innovative space solutions. In 2024 alone, Seraphim Space has made 27 investments, showcasing their active role in the industry. Notable transactions include their investment in Auriga Space, which secured $5 million to develop electromagnetic technology for space launch, and their involvement with Skyrora, a company focused on developing launch vehicles. Other relevant investments include Tesseract and CisLunar Industries, both of which are engaged in aerospace-related projects. These transactions highlight Seraphim Space's commitment to advancing aerospace manufacturing technologies and solutions.


4. European Investment Bank (EIB)


The European Investment Bank (EIB) is a public entity based in Luxembourg, founded in 1958, that provides a range of financial services including loans, equity investments, guarantees, and advisory services aimed at supporting sustainable projects across various sectors. In 2024, the EIB was involved in 99 investments, showcasing its active role in the financial landscape. Among its notable transactions, the EIB provided venture debt financing of up to EUR 18 million to GomSpace, a Danish company specializing in nano-satellite technology, which is crucial for telecommunications and has significant implications for aerospace applications. Additionally, the EIB's investment in Airborne Technology, which raised over $17 million, indicates its commitment to supporting companies that may have aerospace manufacturing components. These transactions highlight the EIB's engagement in sectors that intersect with aerospace manufacturing, reinforcing its position as a relevant investor in this field.


5. Almi

  • Website: almi.se
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
  • Founded year: 1994
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • Number of deals in 2024: 7
  • LinkedIn: almi-ab

Almi AB is a financial services company based in Stockholm, Sweden, founded in 1994. It provides loans, risk capital, and business development support to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Sweden, aiming to enhance their growth and competitiveness through tailored financial solutions. Among its notable transactions, Almi has invested in Marstrom Composite, a company known for its work with composite materials, which are critical in aerospace manufacturing. Additionally, Almi has supported Airolit, Finepart Sweden, and Wematter, which are involved in advanced manufacturing technologies that could have applications in aerospace. These investments reflect Almi's commitment to fostering innovation and development in sectors that may intersect with aerospace manufacturing.


6. European Space Agency - ESA

  • Website: esa.int
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Paris, Île-De-France, France
  • Founded year: 1975
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 10
  • LinkedIn: european-space-agency

The European Space Agency (ESA) is a public entity dedicated to space exploration and research, founded in 1975 and headquartered in Paris, France. With a workforce of 1001-5000 employees, ESA conducts human spaceflight missions, Earth observation, and satellite navigation, serving governments and research organizations. It collaborates with international partners to advance space technology and provide critical data for scientific research and environmental monitoring. In recent years, ESA has been involved in several significant transactions that highlight its role as an investor in the aerospace manufacturing sector. For instance, it provided grants to Dawn Aerospace, Skyrora, and Rocket Factory Augsburg, supporting their development of launch systems and satellite technologies. These investments are part of ESA's broader strategy to enhance the capabilities of the European aerospace industry and promote innovation in manufacturing processes for space applications.


7. 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 leading aerospace manufacturer and defense contractor based in Paris, Île-De-France, France. Founded in 2005, the company specializes in aircraft equipment, propulsion systems, and defense technologies, serving a diverse clientele that includes aircraft manufacturers and military organizations. Safran is committed to providing innovative solutions that enhance safety and operational efficiency in the aviation and defense sectors. In 2017, Safran made a significant move by acquiring Zodiac Aerospace for approximately $9 billion, a strategic acquisition aimed at bolstering their position in the aerospace market. More recently, in 2024, Safran finalized the acquisition of Preligens, further expanding their portfolio. Additionally, Safran has invested in Cranfield Aerospace, participating in funding rounds focused on hydrogen-electric propulsion technology, showcasing their dedication to sustainability and technological advancement in aerospace manufacturing.


8. Tikehau Capital


Tikehau Capital is an investment management firm based in Paris, Île-De-France, France, specializing in alternative asset management. Founded in 2004, the firm offers a range of services including private debt, private equity, real assets, and capital markets strategies. Tikehau Capital serves a diverse clientele, including institutional and private investors, as well as SMEs seeking tailored financing solutions to support growth and sustainability initiatives. Notably, Tikehau has been involved in several key transactions within the aerospace manufacturing sector, such as providing debt financing to Daher, a prominent aerospace company, and participating in a private equity round for Mecachrome France, which specializes in precision engineering for the aerospace industry. They also invested in Latecoere, a company known for its aerostructures and services for the aerospace sector, and made a significant investment in Nexteam Group, a precision mechanics and machining company. Most recently, Tikehau Capital entered exclusive negotiations to acquire Sabena Technics, a company specializing in aeronautical maintenance, further solidifying their commitment to the aerospace manufacturing industry.


9. 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 founded in 2011, based in London, England. The firm focuses on 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 invested in Walker Precision Engineering, which received £4m to expand operations in the space market, and Orbex Space, which raised $20.77 million in a Series C funding round in 2024. These transactions highlight BGF's commitment to supporting companies in the aerospace manufacturing sector, alongside their broader investment strategy.


10. 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, founded in 2003 and headquartered in Blagnac, Occitanie, France, is a prominent corporate investor in the aerospace manufacturing sector. The company specializes in the design and production of commercial aircraft, helicopters, defense systems, and space technology, serving a diverse global customer base that includes airlines, military organizations, and space agencies. Airbus has made several strategic acquisitions to enhance its position in the aerospace market, including the acquisition of Bombardier's stake in the A220 program for $591 million, which solidified its control over the A220 aircraft. Additionally, Airbus acquired Satair A/S, a Danish aircraft parts distributor, for approximately $483 million, further expanding its supply chain capabilities. These transactions reflect Airbus's commitment to innovation and sustainability in aerospace technology, reinforcing its role as a key player in the industry.


11. 3i Group plc

  • Website: 3i.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 1945
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • Number of deals in 2024: 3
  • LinkedIn: 3i-group-plc

3i Group plc is a London-based private equity and infrastructure investment firm founded in 1945. The company specializes in providing capital and expertise to mid-market companies, helping them achieve sustainable growth. With a strong international presence and a diverse portfolio, 3i Group aims to create value for its stakeholders through strategic investments. Notably, 3i Group has made significant investments in the aerospace manufacturing sector, including a $6.7 million investment in Collins Aerospace in 2005 and an undisclosed investment in Pilatus Business Aircraft Ltd the same year. Furthermore, their acquisition of Dynatect Manufacturing in 2014, a company that serves the aerospace industry, highlights their commitment to this sector. These transactions demonstrate 3i Group's active role in supporting and growing aerospace manufacturing companies.


12. Crowdcube

  • Website: crowdcube.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 2010
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 3
  • LinkedIn: crowdcube-limited

Crowdcube is a London-based crowdfunding platform founded in 2010 that enables businesses to raise capital through equity investments. It connects startups and SMEs with potential investors, facilitating the funding process. The platform promotes diversity and inclusion within its workforce while providing investment management services to its clients. Notably, Crowdcube has been involved in several transactions relevant to the aerospace manufacturing sector, including funding Hybrid Air Vehicles through convertible notes in 2020 and 2021, which focuses on innovative airship technology. Additionally, Crowdcube has supported Graphene Composites, a company that may have applications in aerospace materials, through equity crowdfunding. These transactions highlight Crowdcube's engagement with the aerospace industry, making it a noteworthy investor in this field.


13. EQT Group

  • Website: eqtgroup.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
  • Founded year: 1994
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 30
  • LinkedIn: eqt-partners

EQT Group is a prominent private equity investment firm based in Stockholm, Sweden, founded in 1994. The firm specializes in a diverse range of investment strategies, including private equity, infrastructure, real estate, growth equity, and venture capital. EQT serves institutional investors by providing expertise in managing varied investment portfolios across multiple sectors and geographies. Notably, EQT has made significant investments in the aerospace manufacturing sector, including the acquisition of EIS Aircraft Group in 2015, which focuses on products and services for civil and military aviation, such as cabin interiors and maintenance services. Additionally, EQT's investment in Unilode Aviation Solutions highlights their commitment to the aviation industry. These transactions demonstrate EQT's active role in the aerospace manufacturing landscape, alongside their broader investment activities.


14. Parkwalk Advisors


Parkwalk Advisors is a London-based venture capital investment management firm founded in 2009. They specialize in venture capital investments in university spin-outs and innovative technologies, managing various EIS funds aimed at providing capital appreciation and tax reliefs for investors. With a focus on high-growth companies, Parkwalk has made significant investments in sectors such as AI, life sciences, and cleantech. Notably, they have invested in Wayland Additive, a manufacturer of electron beam 3D printing machines, which raised substantial funding in 2024 and 2023 to enhance production capabilities and support R&D, indicating a strong connection to aerospace manufacturing. Additionally, their investment in Silicon MicroGravity, which has raised funds to commercialize technology with potential aerospace applications, further highlights their engagement in the aerospace sector. Overall, Parkwalk Advisors demonstrates a commitment to supporting innovative technologies that intersect with aerospace manufacturing.


15. 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, focusing on sectors such as renewable energy and sustainable cities. However, Omnes has also made notable investments in the aerospace manufacturing industry. They acquired SOURIAU SAS, a company known for its aerospace connectors, in 2006, and Porcher Industries, which has applications in aerospace, in 1998. More recently, in 2017, Omnes invested EUR11.7 million in Aero Negoce International, a fasteners distributor dedicated to the aerospace industry, highlighting their commitment to supporting growth in this sector. Through these transactions, Omnes Capital demonstrates its ability to foster growth and sustainability in critical infrastructure projects, including those in aerospace manufacturing.


16. 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, demonstrating its active role in supporting businesses. Notably, it has invested in aerospace-related companies such as Aurora Avionics, which raised funds to enhance research and design for rocket control systems, and Mage Control Systems, which received a grant. These transactions highlight Scottish Enterprise's commitment to advancing the aerospace manufacturing sector in Scotland.



Aerospace Manufacturing Insights: Key Investors in Europe


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
Bpifrance French Tech AccélérationParis, Île-De-France, France1-102015198
European Innovation Council (EIC)Brussels, Brussels, Belgium201-500195857
Seraphim SpaceLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)11-50201627
European Investment Bank (EIB)Luxembourg1001-5000195899
AlmiStockholm, Stockholm, Sweden201-50019947
European Space Agency - ESAParis, Île-De-France, France1001-5000197510
SafranParis, Île-De-France, France10001+20059
Tikehau CapitalParis, Île-De-France, France501-100020046
BgfLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)51-200201153
AirbusBlagnac, Occitanie, France10001+20036
3i Group plcLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)201-50019453
CrowdcubeLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)51-20020103
EQT GroupStockholm, Stockholm, Sweden1001-5000199430
Parkwalk AdvisorsLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)11-50200917
OmnesParis, Île-De-France, France51-20019998
Scottish EnterpriseGlasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)1001-5000199155


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