The oil and gas industry in the US is a cornerstone of the economy, encompassing exploration, extraction, refining, and distribution. Companies range from major integrated firms, like Chevron and ExxonMobil, to smaller independent producers focusing on niche markets. This industry is not only pivotal for energy supply but also vital for job creation and advancements in technology and sustainability practices. With a keen eye on the energy transition, many firms are investing in cleaner energy solutions, while the demand for oil and gas continues to rise globally. Notably, the US is a leader in shale gas production, revolutionizing energy access.


The list of top oil and gas investors showcases a mix of private equity, venture capital, and corporate investors. Based in robust financial hubs like New York and Houston, these firms vary in size from small teams to thousands of employees. Established between 1926 and 1998, the investors reflect decades of expertise in the industry, having completed a collective total of 449 investments in 2024. Each investor, from KKR to Morgan Stanley, brings unique strategies and insights to the table, paving the way for oil and gas’s future amidst evolving global energy demands.


Top 16 Oil and Gas Investors in the US


1. Chevron

  • Website: chevron.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Houston, Texas, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1999
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 16
  • LinkedIn: chevron

Chevron Corporation is an energy company based in Houston, Texas, specializing in oil and natural gas exploration, production, and distribution. Founded in 1999, Chevron operates globally and is committed to sustainable practices to meet the world's energy demands. In recent years, Chevron has made several significant acquisitions in the oil and gas sector, including the acquisition of Hess Corporation for $53 million, which strengthens its positions in Guyana and the Bakken region. Additionally, Chevron acquired PDC Energy for $7.6 billion, further expanding its portfolio in the oil industry. Other notable transactions include the acquisition of Unocal Corporation in 2005 and Puma Energy Australia in 2019. While Chevron also invests in renewable energy solutions, its core operations and recent transactions firmly establish it as a key player in the oil and gas industry.


2. IFC - International Finance Corporation

  • Website: ifc.org
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Washington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1956
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 107
  • LinkedIn: ifclinkedin

The International Finance Corporation (IFC) is a not-for-profit organization established in 1956, headquartered in Washington, D.C. It focuses on private sector development in emerging markets by providing investment, advisory, and asset management services to businesses and financial institutions. IFC aims to help these entities access capital and expertise to promote economic growth and alleviate poverty. In the oil and gas sector, IFC has been involved in several notable transactions, including a $60 million acquisition of a 10% stake in Delonex Energy, which is dedicated to oil and gas exploration in Africa. Additionally, IFC participated in funding rounds for Citla Energy and Apex International Energy, and contributed to a $255 million funding effort for Seven Energy to enhance its gas business in Nigeria. These transactions highlight IFC's active role in the oil and gas industry, aligning with its mission to support sustainable development.


3. 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. Notably, KKR has made significant investments in the oil and gas sector, including a C$250 million commitment to Westbrick Energy, showcasing their confidence in the management team and potential of the company. In 2019, KKR partnered with Spur Energy Partners LLC to acquire the Permian Northwest Shelf assets of Percussion Petroleum LLC, which included interests in approximately 380 producing wells and 22,000 net acres in New Mexico. This acquisition was part of a broader multi-billion dollar investment strategy in the oil and gas space. Additionally, KKR's acquisition of Wyoming Enhanced Oil Recovery assets further highlights their active role in the oil and gas industry, making them a notable player in this sector.


4. Morgan Stanley

  • Website: morganstanley.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1986
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 79
  • LinkedIn: morgan-stanley

Morgan Stanley is a prominent investment bank and financial services firm founded in 1986, headquartered in New York, New York. With a workforce exceeding 10,000, the firm provides a wide array of services including wealth management, investment banking, and capital markets. Morgan Stanley serves a diverse clientele, including individuals, families, corporations, and governments, helping them manage and grow their financial assets. In the oil and gas sector, Morgan Stanley has made notable investments, such as a majority equity investment in Presidio Petroleum, which focuses on acquiring oil and natural gas properties in the western Anadarko Basin. They also acquired Catalyst Energy Construction, further solidifying their presence in the industry. Additionally, Morgan Stanley has participated in significant debt financing for companies like Sasol and Nabors, showcasing their active role in supporting the oil and gas market.


5. 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, New York, founded in 1998. The firm provides a comprehensive range of services, including investment banking, asset management, and wealth management, catering to a diverse clientele that includes corporations, financial institutions, and individuals. In the oil and gas sector, Goldman Sachs has been actively involved in several notable transactions, such as facilitating Sasol's $2.97 billion post-IPO debt raise in April 2023, and supporting Swan Energy's $398 million post-IPO equity raise in February 2024. Additionally, they have engaged in debt financing for OEG Offshore Ltd and Zakher Marine International, raising $138.76 million and $500 million respectively. These transactions highlight Goldman Sachs' significant role in providing financial solutions to companies within the oil and gas industry, reinforcing their position as a relevant investor in this sector.


6. EnCap Investments L.P.


EnCap Investments L.P. is a Houston-based private equity firm founded in 1988, specializing in providing growth capital to independent energy companies. The firm has raised over $40 billion and has a strong track record of successful investments in the energy sector, particularly in the upstream and midstream oil and gas markets. Notable transactions include an initial $300 million equity commitment to Sabalo Energy II, which focuses on large-scale unconventional oil and gas assets, and investments in companies like Chord Energy, XCL Resources, Grayson Mill Energy, and Laramie Energy II, all of which are involved in various aspects of the oil and gas industry. EnCap's strategic guidance and capital support have been instrumental in enhancing the operations of these companies, solidifying their position as a key player in the energy investment landscape.


7. Blackstone

  • Website: blackstone.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1985
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 57
  • LinkedIn: blackstonegroup

Blackstone Inc. is a leading investment management firm based in New York, specializing in alternative investments. Founded in 1985, the firm has built a diverse portfolio that includes private equity, real estate, and credit solutions for both institutional and individual investors. Blackstone has been actively involved in the oil and gas sector, with significant transactions such as the $300 million investment in Kosmos Energy Ltd. in 2004, which focuses on oil exploration and production. Additionally, Blackstone participated in the post-IPO equity round for Genesis Energy in 2017, a company engaged in the transportation and storage of crude oil and natural gas. More recently, in 2024, Blackstone invested $1.1 billion in Tallgrass Energy, which operates in the midstream sector of the oil and gas industry. These transactions highlight Blackstone's commitment to building strong businesses and delivering lasting value in the oil and gas market.


8. Warburg Pincus LLC

  • Website: warburgpincus.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1966
  • Headcount: 501-1000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 24
  • LinkedIn: warburg-pincus

Warburg Pincus LLC is a leading global private equity firm specializing in growth investments, founded in 1966 and based in New York, New York. With over $83 billion in assets under management, the firm partners with management teams across various sectors, including healthcare, technology, and financial services. Notably, Warburg Pincus has made significant investments in the oil and gas sector, including a $44 million investment in MEG Energy in 2004, a $300 million investment in Kosmos Energy Ltd. in the same year, and a $500 million investment in Apex International Energy in 2016. Additionally, they invested $500 million in Trident Energy in 2016 and committed over $1 billion to WildFire Energy, which focuses on the acquisition and development of oil and gas assets in the US. This diverse portfolio highlights their strategic approach to growth investments, including a strong focus on the energy sector.


9. Post Oak Energy Capital


Post Oak Energy Capital is a private equity firm based in Houston, Texas, founded in 2006. The firm specializes in investments in the energy sector, particularly focusing on upstream, midstream, and oilfield services. They partner with experienced management teams to provide growth capital and strategic support, aiming to create successful oil and gas businesses. Notable transactions include the acquisition of Sandridge Energy in 2006, and participation in funding rounds for LINN Energy, Chaparral Energy LLC, and RAM Energy Resources. These transactions highlight their commitment to developing a diversified portfolio of middle market energy investments, particularly in the oil and gas domain.


10. First Reserve


First Reserve is an investment firm founded in 1983, based in Stamford, Connecticut, specializing in private equity and real asset strategies within the energy sector. With over 40 years of experience, First Reserve partners with management teams to drive growth and enhance value in energy, utility, and industrial markets. Notably, they have acquired a controlling stake in Amromco Energy, a Romanian oil and gas producer, marking their intent to establish an oil and gas platform in Central and Eastern Europe. Additionally, they have participated in significant funding rounds for companies such as Phillips 66 Partners and Lucero Energy, further solidifying their commitment to the oil and gas industry.


11. Stonepeak

  • Website: stonepeak.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2011
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • Number of deals in 2024: 16
  • LinkedIn: stonepeak-partners

Stonepeak is a private equity investment firm based in New York, specializing in infrastructure and real estate investments. Founded in 2011, the firm manages assets on behalf of large institutions, including pension funds and endowments, with a focus on creating value through strategic investments in critical infrastructure that supports daily life. Stonepeak has been actively involved in the oil and gas sector, with significant transactions including investments in Phillips 66 Partners, Targa Resources Partners, and Venture Global LNG. In 2016, they participated in a $1 billion post-IPO equity raise for Targa Resources Partners, and in 2019, they invested in Venture Global LNG, highlighting their commitment to the energy sector. More recently, in December 2023, Stonepeak agreed to provide up to $400 million to Clean Energy Fuels Corp for the development of renewable natural gas production facilities, further emphasizing their role in the evolving energy landscape.


12. Apollo Global Management, Inc.

  • Website: apollo.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1990
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 46
  • LinkedIn: apollo-global-management-inc

Apollo Global Management, Inc. is a prominent asset management firm based in New York, specializing in alternative assets and retirement solutions. Founded in 1990, the firm manages a diverse portfolio across credit, private equity, and real assets, catering to institutional investors, corporations, and individual clients. Apollo has been actively involved in the oil and gas sector, with notable transactions including the acquisition of Parallel Petroleum Corp. for approximately $483 million in 2009, which included both cash and debt assumption. They also participated in a private equity round for Talos Energy in 2012, showcasing their investment strategy in the energy market. Furthermore, their investment in New Fortress Energy, which raised $800 million in post-IPO debt in 2020, highlights their ongoing engagement in the energy sector. These transactions reflect Apollo's commitment to providing innovative capital solutions within the oil and gas industry.


13. 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, with a strong emphasis on supporting entrepreneurs in underserved communities. Their investment strategy includes venture capital, capital investment consulting, and management of investment funds. Notably, Advantage Capital has made significant investments in the oil and gas sector, including Hornbeck Offshore, which raised funds in a venture round in 2000, and OMNI Energy Services, which also secured funding in 1996. Additionally, they have invested in energy-related companies like Virent Energy Systems, which focuses on renewable energy solutions, indicating a broader interest in energy investments. Their diverse portfolio reflects a commitment to flexible capital solutions that help businesses grow across various industries, including oil and gas.


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 based in Menlo Park, California, founded in 2004. The firm specializes in providing funding and venture assistance to startups, particularly in technology, healthcare, and sustainability sectors. Khosla Ventures supports entrepreneurs with resources and strategic guidance to help them navigate the challenges of building their businesses. Notably, Khosla Ventures has been involved in multiple funding rounds for Gevo, a company focused on producing renewable fuels and chemicals from biomass. Their investment history with Gevo includes several rounds from 2007 to 2010, indicating a sustained interest in the energy sector, particularly in sustainable alternatives to traditional oil and gas. This involvement highlights Khosla Ventures' engagement with the oil and gas industry, albeit through the lens of renewable energy.


15. 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, specializing in private equity, real assets, and private credit. With a global presence and a workforce of 1001-5000 employees, Carlyle serves a diverse range of institutional investors, including pension funds and sovereign wealth funds, by providing tailored investment solutions and access to alternative asset classes. Among their significant transactions in the oil and gas sector, Carlyle invested $500 million in Mazarine Energy in 2016, participated in a private equity round for Varo Energy in 2013, and invested $75 million in SemGroup in 2004. These investments highlight Carlyle's active role in the oil and gas industry, showcasing their commitment to driving long-term value in this sector.


16. SCF Partners

  • Website: scfpartners.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Houston, Texas, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1989
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 4
  • LinkedIn: scf-partners

SCF Partners is a Houston-based private equity firm founded in 1989, specializing in the energy sector. The firm provides capital and strategic support to entrepreneurs and management teams, helping them build companies that deliver energy services, products, and technology. SCF Partners is particularly focused on driving innovation and transformation within the energy industry. Notably, they have been involved in several significant transactions in the oil and gas context, including the acquisition of Newpark Fluid Systems, which enhances efficiency in drilling and completions fluids. Other relevant acquisitions include Centurion Group and Variperm (Canada), both of which contribute to the oil and gas supply chain. Through these investments, SCF Partners aims to create lasting value in the energy sector, demonstrating their active role in oil and gas investments.



Oil and Gas Insights: Key Investors in the US


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
ChevronHouston, Texas, United States (USA)10001+199916
IFC - International Finance CorporationWashington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)1001-50001956107
KkrNew York, New York, United States (USA)1001-5000197674
Morgan StanleyNew York, New York, United States (USA)10001+198679
Goldman SachsNew York, New York, United States (USA)10001+199859
EnCap Investments L.P.Houston, Texas, United States (USA)51-20019881
BlackstoneNew York, New York, United States (USA)1001-5000198557
Warburg Pincus LLCNew York, New York, United States (USA)501-1000196624
Post Oak Energy CapitalHouston, Texas, United States (USA)11-5020063
First ReserveStamford, Connecticut, United States (USA)51-20019830
StonepeakNew York, New York, United States (USA)201-500201116
Apollo Global Management, Inc.New York, New York, United States (USA)1001-5000199046
Advantage CapitalNew Orleans, Louisiana, United States (USA)51-20019925
Khosla VenturesMenlo Park, California, United States (USA)51-200200497
The Carlyle GroupWashington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)1001-5000198725
SCF PartnersHouston, Texas, United States (USA)11-5019894


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