The aircraft engine manufacturing industry in the US is vital to both commercial and defense aviation. It includes major corporations, specialized manufacturers, and innovative startups. Companies are engaged in designing, producing, and maintaining jet engines and components, with a strong focus on advanced technology like fuel efficiency and sustainability. The industry is moving towards more eco-friendly propulsion methods, such as electric and hybrid engines, driven by growing environmental concerns. With a healthy demand fueled by increasing passenger air travel and defense contracts, the industry is poised for continued innovations and growth in the near future.


This listing features a well-rounded group of 17 aircraft engine manufacturing investors from various sectors, including corporate giants, venture capital firms, and private equity groups. With headquarters ranging from Bethesda, Maryland to Kirkland, Washington, these investors vary significantly in size and fiscal engagement, with some like Lockheed Martin leading the charge with 19 investments in 2024. Others, such as Y Combinator, have actively supported numerous innovative startups. Founded between 1930 and 2023, each investor brings a unique perspective to the evolving aerospace landscape, collectively representing a robust commitment to the aircraft engine manufacturing sector.


Top 17 Aircraft Engine Manufacturing Investors in the US


1. U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)

  • Website: energy.gov
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Washington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1977
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 597
  • LinkedIn: u-s--department-of-energy

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) is a public entity established in 1977, responsible for overseeing national energy policy, energy production, and nuclear power research. It serves various stakeholders, including government entities and the public, by providing guidance on energy efficiency, funding opportunities, and conducting research to address energy challenges. In the context of aircraft engine manufacturing, the DOE has been actively involved in funding projects that enhance propulsion technologies. Notable transactions include grants to Pratt & Whitney and GE Aerospace, each raising significant amounts in March 2024, as well as a grant to RTX in November 2024. Additionally, the DOE has supported companies like Wright Electric and Ampaire, which are working on innovative aircraft technologies, including hybrid-electric propulsion systems. These investments highlight the DOE's commitment to advancing technologies that are integral to the aircraft engine manufacturing sector.


2. 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. 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 companies like Wright Electric, which focuses on developing electric aircraft, and Boom Supersonic, which is working on supersonic travel solutions. These investments highlight Y Combinator's engagement in the aerospace sector, particularly in areas that may influence aircraft engine manufacturing and innovation.


3. 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 (an Alumni Ventures Fund) is a venture capital firm founded in 2023, based in Manchester, New Hampshire, USA. 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 involved in several notable transactions relevant to the aircraft engine manufacturing industry, including a $13 million investment in ZeroAvia, which is pioneering hydrogen-electric powertrains for aircraft, and a $20 million investment in H3X Technologies, focused on electric propulsion systems. Additionally, their participation in the funding round for Heart Aerospace, a company developing hybrid-electric aircraft, further highlights their commitment to innovations in aviation technology.


4. Starburst


Starburst is a consulting firm founded in 2012, based in El Segundo, California, specializing in the aerospace and defense industry. They provide startup acceleration, strategy consulting, and venture investments to help clients innovate in these sectors. Starburst has been involved in several notable transactions, including investments in ZeroAvia, which is pioneering hydrogen-powered aviation solutions, and Ampaire, focused on electric aircraft technology. These investments highlight their commitment to advancing technologies that are directly relevant to aircraft engines. Additionally, they have participated in funding rounds for other innovative companies like Destinus, which aims to develop hydrogen-powered supersonic flight, further emphasizing their focus on cutting-edge aerospace technologies.


5. 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. NASA focuses on civil space programs and aeronautics research, conducting space exploration missions and developing advanced spacecraft. In recent years, NASA has been actively involved in funding innovative technologies in the aviation sector, particularly through grants aimed at enhancing aircraft propulsion systems. Notably, NASA awarded $179 million to GE Aviation and $74.3 million to MagniX as part of its Electric Powertrain Flight Demonstration (EPFD) program, aimed at developing electric propulsion technologies for aircraft. This funding is intended to facilitate the introduction of these technologies into U.S. aviation fleets by 2035. Additionally, NASA has engaged with other aerospace companies, such as Boeing, to support various aerospace initiatives, further demonstrating its commitment to advancing aeronautics and aircraft engine technologies.


6. 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. With over 10,000 employees, Boeing serves commercial airlines, government agencies, and military organizations, providing innovative solutions to ensure safe and efficient air travel and defense capabilities. In 2024, Boeing announced its acquisition of Spirit AeroSystems for approximately $8.3 billion, which is a key player in the aerospace supply chain, including components for aircraft engines. Additionally, Boeing finalized the acquisition of De Havilland Canada for US$130 million, further expanding its footprint in the aircraft manufacturing sector. These transactions highlight Boeing's strategic investments in companies that are integral to the aircraft manufacturing ecosystem, including those involved in engine production and support.


7. 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 is known for providing advanced solutions to government entities, including the U.S. Department of Defense. In recent years, Lockheed Martin has made several strategic investments that align with the aircraft engine manufacturing sector. Notably, they invested $20 million 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 led the Series A funding round for Electra.aero, a company that raised significant capital to develop innovative aviation solutions. These transactions highlight Lockheed Martin's commitment to enhancing aerospace technologies, particularly in areas that intersect with aircraft engine manufacturing.


8. 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 an 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 by 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 Arkwin Industries for $286 million, which is involved in aerospace components, and Calspan Corporation for approximately $725 million, a provider of testing and technology development services for the aerospace and defense industry. These acquisitions highlight TransDigm's commitment to enhancing its portfolio in the aerospace sector, particularly in areas that support aircraft engine manufacturing.


9. 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 focus on delivering tailored investment solutions to institutional investors, Carlyle has established itself as a key player in various industries. Notably, in the aerospace sector, Carlyle has made significant investments, including the acquisition of Paradigm Precision, a company involved in manufacturing precision components for aircraft engines, and StandardAero, which provides maintenance and repair services for aircraft engines. Additionally, their investment in Nordam Group, an aerospace repair and manufacturing company, highlights their commitment to supporting companies within the aerospace industry. These transactions demonstrate Carlyle's strategic interest in the aircraft engine manufacturing sector, making them a relevant investor in this field.


10. 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 manufacturer specializing in electronic instruments and electromechanical devices, founded in 1930 and based in Berwyn, Pennsylvania. The company provides advanced analytical and measurement solutions to various sectors, including aerospace, energy, and medical. Ametek has made significant strides in the aerospace industry through strategic acquisitions, enhancing its capabilities in the aircraft engine manufacturing context. Notable transactions include the acquisition of Muirhead Aerospace Limited in 2008, which specializes in motion technology products and avionics repair services, and Aero Components International Corp. in 2012, which focuses on FAA-certified aviation repair operations. These acquisitions demonstrate Ametek's commitment to expanding its footprint in the aerospace sector, particularly in areas that support aircraft engine manufacturing and maintenance.


11. 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 made significant investments in the aviation sector, including a $20 million Series A investment in H3X Technologies, which has developed an Ultra High Power Density Motor Drive for electric aircraft. Additionally, they participated in funding rounds for Stralis Aircraft and Destinus, the latter focusing on hydrogen-powered supersonic flight, showcasing their commitment to supporting innovative technologies in the aircraft industry.


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 is a leading aerospace manufacturer based in Hollywood, Florida, specializing in FAA-approved aircraft replacement parts and repair services. Founded in 1957, Heico serves major airlines and military organizations, providing essential components and solutions that enhance operational efficiency and safety in aviation. In recent years, Heico has made significant acquisitions to bolster its position in the aerospace market. Notably, the acquisition of Wencor Group for $2.05 billion marks their largest purchase to date, expanding their reach in the aerospace aftermarket. Additionally, their acquisition of Blue Aerospace, a supplier of military aircraft parts, further emphasizes their focus on the aircraft sector. Heico's commitment to quality and innovation positions them as a trusted partner in the aerospace and defense sectors, making them a relevant player in the aircraft engine manufacturing industry.


13. 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, 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 invested in Hermeus, a company that is developing advanced aircraft, including the Quarterhorse and Darkhorse models, with funding rounds of $100 million in Series B and $16 million in Series A. Additionally, they participated in funding for Transonic Combustion, which focuses on innovative combustion technologies that could have applications in aerospace. These transactions highlight Khosla Ventures' engagement in the aerospace sector, particularly in companies that are pushing the boundaries of aircraft technology.


14. 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, founded in 1998. It provides a wide range of services, including investment banking, asset management, and wealth management, catering to a diverse clientele that includes corporations and financial institutions. In recent years, Goldman Sachs has been involved in significant transactions within the aerospace sector, such as facilitating a $15.81 billion post-IPO debt raise for The Boeing Company and a $350 million post-IPO debt raise for Embraer. These transactions highlight Goldman Sachs' active role in financing major aerospace companies, which are integral to the aircraft engine manufacturing industry. Additionally, their investment in Terran Orbital Corporation, which focuses on manufacturing equipment for aerospace applications, further underscores their involvement in the sector.


15. Breakthrough Energy


Breakthrough Energy is a not-for-profit organization founded in 2015, based in Kirkland, Washington, dedicated to accelerating the transition to a net-zero economy. They focus on supporting innovative technologies and advocating for policies that promote clean energy solutions. In 2024, they participated in a significant Series C funding round for ZeroAvia, raising $34 million, which aims to advance the certification of its hydrogen-powered engines for commercial aircraft. Additionally, they were part of earlier funding rounds for ZeroAvia, including a $35 million Series B and multiple Series A rounds totaling $24.3 million and $13 million. These transactions highlight Breakthrough Energy's commitment to investing in the future of sustainable aviation technology, particularly in the aircraft engine manufacturing sector.


16. Senior Aerospace

  • Website: seniorplc.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Bartlett, Illinois, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1933
  • Headcount: 5001-10000
  • LinkedIn: senior-aerospace

Senior Aerospace, a division of Senior plc, is a corporate investor based in Bartlett, Illinois, specializing in high-technology components and systems for the aerospace, defense, land vehicle, and power & energy markets. Founded in 1933, the company serves original equipment manufacturers with innovative solutions aimed at addressing the challenges of transitioning to sustainable practices. Senior Aerospace has been involved in several significant acquisitions in the aerospace manufacturing sector, including the acquisition of Thermal Engineering in 2013, which is expected to enhance its growth in the aerospace domain. Other notable acquisitions include Senior Aerospace Ketema, Senior Aerospace AMT, and Senior Aerospace Bird Bellows, all of which demonstrate the company's commitment to expanding its footprint in the aerospace industry. These transactions highlight Senior Aerospace's strategic focus on enhancing its capabilities in manufacturing components that are likely relevant to aircraft engines.


17. 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 partners with various government agencies to identify and support innovative solutions in areas such as software and materials sciences. Notably, IQT participated in a $100 million Series B funding round for Hermeus, a company developing advanced aircraft, including its Quarterhorse and Darkhorse models. This investment highlights IQT's commitment to supporting innovations in the aerospace sector, particularly those that may have implications for national security. Additionally, IQT has been involved in other technology investments, but its engagement with Hermeus is particularly relevant to the aircraft engine manufacturing context.



Aircraft Engine Manufacturing Insights: Key Investors in the US


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)Washington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)10001+1977597
Y CombinatorSan Francisco, California, United States (USA)51-2002005802
Deep Tech Fund (an Alumni Ventures Fund)Manchester, New Hampshire, United States (USA)51-2002023258
StarburstEl Segundo, California, United States (USA)51-20020123
NASA - National Aeronautics and Space AdministrationWashington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)10001+195824
BoeingArlington, Virginia, United States (USA)10001+20027
Lockheed MartinBethesda, Maryland, United States (USA)10001+191219
TransDigm Group Inc.Cleveland, Ohio, United States (USA)10001+19932
The Carlyle GroupWashington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)1001-5000198725
AmetekBerwyn, Pennsylvania, United States (USA)10001+19301
Liquid 2 VenturesSan Francisco, California, United States (USA)1-10201591
HeicoHollywood, Florida, United States (USA)1001-500019572
Khosla VenturesMenlo Park, California, United States (USA)51-200200497
Goldman SachsNew York, New York, United States (USA)10001+199859
Breakthrough EnergyKirkland, Washington, United States (USA)51-200201538
Senior AerospaceBartlett, Illinois, United States (USA)5001-1000019330
IQT (In-Q-Tel)Arlington, Virginia, United States (USA)51-200199924


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