The aerospace parts manufacturing industry in Europe is a dynamic and essential sector that produces components for aircraft, satellites, and defense systems. This industry is populated by a range of companies, from multinational corporations to specialized manufacturers, all focused on creating high-quality, innovative parts. With advancements in technology such as 3D printing and specific regulations demanding improved fuel efficiency and safety, the industry is poised for rapid growth. Furthermore, the shift toward electric and hybrid aircraft is opening new avenues for development and investment, highlighting the sector’s potential in pursuing sustainable aviation solutions.


The list of investors features a mix of corporate, venture capital, and private equity firms headquartered across Europe, with a range of company sizes from small firms to large public entities. With established backgrounds dating from the mid-20th century to the present day, these investors have shown significant activity in 2024, collectively participating in over 500 transactions. Notably, significant players like Safran and the European Investment Bank reflect a culture of innovation and investment, demonstrated by their unwavering commitment to funding aerospace advancements.


Top 18 Aerospace Parts Manufacturing Investors in Europe


1. 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 a range of 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. Notably, Bpifrance has been involved in significant transactions within the aerospace sector, including the acquisition of Sabena technics, which generated approximately €450 million in revenue in 2018. This involvement highlights Bpifrance's commitment to enhancing growth opportunities in the aerospace industry, alongside its broader investment strategy that includes various sectors.


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 provides business acceleration services, networking opportunities, and prizes to foster innovation in multiple sectors. Notably, the EIC has been involved in several transactions relevant to the aerospace industry, such as providing grants to Dawn Aerospace and ThrustMe, both of which are engaged in aerospace technology development. Additionally, the EIC participated in a significant Series B funding round for Heart Aerospace, a company focused on hybrid-electric aircraft, highlighting its commitment to advancing aerospace innovations.


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. They provide funding and support to startups in the space technology sector through various investment funds and an accelerator program. With 27 investments in 2024 alone, Seraphim Space has established itself as a key player in the SpaceTech industry. Notable transactions include investments in Tesseract and Skyrora, both of which are involved in innovative aerospace solutions. Additionally, their investment in Auriga Space, which raised $5 million to develop electromagnetic technology for space launch, highlights their commitment to advancing aerospace technologies. This focus on supporting companies that contribute to the aerospace supply chain positions Seraphim Space as a relevant investor in the aerospace parts manufacturing sector.


4. European Investment Bank (EIB)


The European Investment Bank (EIB) is a public entity based in Luxembourg, established in 1958, that provides a range of financial services including loans, equity investments, guarantees, and advisory services. EIB supports sustainable projects across various sectors, including aerospace. In recent transactions, EIB has engaged in significant funding activities relevant to the aerospace industry, such as a venture debt financing agreement of up to EUR 18 million for GomSpace, a Danish company specializing in nano-satellite technology, which is crucial for aerospace applications. Additionally, EIB has provided debt financing to Airborne Technology, further indicating its involvement in the aerospace parts manufacturing sector. With a total of 99 investments in 2024, EIB continues to play a vital role in supporting growth and innovation in various industries, including aerospace.


5. Tikehau Capital


Tikehau Capital is an investment management firm based in Paris, Île-De-France, France, founded in 2004. The firm specializes in alternative asset management, offering a diverse range of services including private debt, private equity, real assets, and capital markets strategies. Tikehau Capital serves a variety of clients, including institutional and private investors, as well as SMEs seeking tailored financing solutions to support growth and sustainability initiatives. In the aerospace sector, Tikehau has made significant investments, including a debt financing deal with Daher, a private equity round for Mecachrome France, and a post-IPO equity investment in Latecoere. Additionally, they invested €114 million in Nexteam Group, a precision mechanics and machining company, and are in exclusive negotiations to acquire Sabena Technics, a company specializing in aeronautical maintenance with substantial revenue. These transactions highlight Tikehau Capital's active role in the aerospace parts manufacturing industry.


6. 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 recent years, Safran has made significant acquisitions to strengthen its position in the aerospace industry, including the acquisition of Zodiac Aerospace for approximately $9 billion in 2017, which was part of its strategy to enhance its aerospace capabilities. Additionally, Safran acquired Aubert & Duval in 2022, further expanding its footprint in aerospace parts manufacturing. The company also finalized the acquisition of Preligens in 2024, indicating ongoing investment in technologies that support its aerospace and defense operations. With a strong focus on sustainability and technological advancement, Safran operates globally and continues to be a key player in the aerospace parts manufacturing sector.


7. 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 specializes in providing growth funding and value creation support to small and mid-sized businesses across 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 several transactions relevant to the aerospace parts manufacturing sector, including a £4 million investment in Walker Precision Engineering, which aims to expand operations to meet increasing demand from the space market. Additionally, BGF invested £6 million in Prodrive Composites, a company focused on carbon fibre composites, which are essential in aerospace applications. These investments demonstrate BGF's commitment to supporting companies that play a crucial role in the aerospace industry.


8. 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 managing diverse investment portfolios across multiple sectors, including private equity, infrastructure, real estate, growth equity, and venture capital. Among their notable transactions, EQT acquired EIS Aircraft Group in 2015, which focuses on products and services for civil and military aviation, highlighting their engagement in the aerospace parts manufacturing industry. Additionally, EQT's acquisition of Zeus Industrial Products in December 2023 further showcases their active investment strategy, although the specific relevance to aerospace is less clear. Overall, EQT Group's diverse investment approach and specific transactions in the aerospace sector position them as a significant player in this industry.


9. 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 firm specializes in providing capital and expertise to mid-market companies, focusing on sustainable growth. With a strong international presence, 3i Group has built a diverse portfolio that includes significant investments in the aerospace sector. Notable transactions include their investments in Collins Aerospace and Pilatus Business Aircraft Ltd, both of which are prominent in aerospace parts manufacturing. Additionally, their acquisition of Dynatect Manufacturing, which raised $110 million in a private equity round, highlights their strategic interest in companies that serve the aerospace industry. Through these investments, 3i Group aims to create value for stakeholders while contributing to the growth of the aerospace sector.


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 aerospace manufacturer known for its innovative solutions in commercial aircraft, helicopters, defense systems, and space technology. With a workforce of over 10,000 employees, Airbus serves a global customer base, including airlines, military organizations, and space agencies. The company is committed to sustainability and advancing aerospace technology. Notably, Airbus has made strategic acquisitions that enhance its capabilities in the aerospace parts manufacturing sector. For instance, the acquisition of Satair A/S, a Danish aircraft parts distributor, for approximately $483 million, underscores Airbus's commitment to expanding its parts distribution network. Additionally, the acquisition of Vector Aerospace Corp for nearly $648 million further solidifies Airbus's position in the aerospace maintenance and repair sector. These transactions reflect Airbus's strategic focus on enhancing its manufacturing and service capabilities within the aerospace industry.


11. Crédit Mutuel Equity


Crédit Mutuel Equity is a private equity investment firm based in Paris, Île-De-France, France, founded in 1988. The firm focuses on providing capital and strategic support to businesses across various sectors, integrating economic and ESG considerations into their strategies. Notably, Crédit Mutuel Equity has been involved in several transactions relevant to the aerospace industry, including a significant investment in Satys, which raised approximately $46.3 million in a venture round in September 2021. Satys specializes in aerospace coatings and services, highlighting the firm's engagement in the aerospace sector. Other transactions include investments in NSE Group, CRENO, and SDMS, although the specific relevance of these companies to aerospace parts manufacturing is less clear. Overall, Crédit Mutuel Equity's diverse investment strategy and involvement in aerospace-related companies position it as a noteworthy player in the investment landscape for aerospace parts manufacturing.


12. Scottish Enterprise


Scottish Enterprise is a public entity established in 1991, headquartered in Glasgow, Scotland. It plays a vital role in enhancing Scotland's economic landscape by providing funding, business development advice, and support for innovation and exports. In 2024, Scottish Enterprise was involved in 55 investments, including significant contributions to the aerospace sector. Notably, they participated in funding rounds for Aurora Avionics, a company specializing in space technology, which raised over £320,000 to advance its research and development in rocket control systems. Additionally, they supported Mage Control Systems and Sofant Technologies, further indicating their engagement in aerospace-related technologies. Through these transactions, Scottish Enterprise demonstrates its commitment to fostering growth in the aerospace parts manufacturing industry, alongside its broader economic development objectives.


13. 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. However, Omnes has also made notable investments in the aerospace industry, highlighting their versatility as an investor. Among their significant transactions is the acquisition of SOURIAU SAS in 2006, a company likely involved in aerospace components. In 2017, Omnes invested EUR11.7 million in Aero Negoce International, a fasteners distributor dedicated to the aerospace industry, which had an annual revenue of EUR16 million as of June 2017. This investment reflects their commitment to supporting growth in the aerospace sector. Additionally, they have been involved in other companies like Satys and Porcher Industries, which may also have ties to aerospace applications. Overall, Omnes Capital combines a focus on sustainable investments with a strategic interest in aerospace parts manufacturing.


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 capital appreciation and tax reliefs for investors. Their focus is on high-growth companies across multiple sectors, including AI, life sciences, and cleantech. Notably, Parkwalk Advisors has invested in Wayland Additive, a manufacturer of electron beam 3D printing machines, which raised significant funding in 2021 and 2023 to enhance production capabilities and support research and development. This investment aligns with the aerospace industry's growing reliance on advanced manufacturing technologies, making Parkwalk Advisors a relevant player in the aerospace parts manufacturing landscape.


15. 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 while promoting diversity and inclusion within its workforce. In recent years, Crowdcube has been involved in several notable transactions in the aerospace sector, including funding for Hybrid Air Vehicles, which raised significant amounts through convertible notes in 2020 and 2021. Additionally, Crowdcube has supported companies like Graphene Composites, which, while not exclusively focused on aerospace, operates in sectors that may intersect with aerospace applications. These transactions highlight Crowdcube's active role in facilitating investments in the aerospace parts manufacturing industry.


16. 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, commonly known as LDC, is a private equity firm based in London, England, founded in 1981. As part of Lloyds Banking Group, LDC specializes in providing growth capital and strategic support to mid-market businesses across various sectors. The firm focuses on helping management teams achieve their growth ambitions through investment and advisory services, fostering long-term partnerships to drive business success. LDC has been actively involved in the aerospace parts manufacturing sector, with significant acquisitions including MB Aerospace in 2007, AIM Altitude in 2010, Airline Services Interiors in 2012, and Precision Micro in 2018. These investments highlight LDC's commitment to the aerospace industry, making them a key player in supporting growth and innovation within this field.


17. 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. In recent years, they have made notable investments in the aerospace sector, including a significant investment in SpaceX, which raised nearly $486 million in December 2018, and Relativity Space, which raised $650 million in June 2021. They also participated in a Series D funding round for Relativity Space in November 2020, aimed at advancing their manufacturing capabilities in aerospace. Furthermore, Baillie Gifford led a $105 million Series B funding round for Merlin Labs in July 2022, a company focused on autonomous flight technology, showcasing their commitment to innovative aerospace solutions. Additionally, their investment in Lilium, a company developing electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, further emphasizes their engagement in the aerospace industry.


18. Ardian

  • Website: ardian.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Paris, Île-De-France, France
  • Founded year: 1996
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 21
  • LinkedIn: ardian

Ardian is a prominent investment management firm founded in 1996, headquartered in Paris, Île-De-France, France. Specializing in private equity, real assets, and credit solutions, Ardian provides tailored investment strategies to institutional investors, family offices, and pension funds, aiming to create lasting value through high-quality private market investments. Notably, Ardian has been involved in several transactions that intersect with the aerospace sector, such as the acquisition of Alvest, a company that supplies airport ground support equipment, which is crucial for the aviation industry. Additionally, Ardian's investment in SERMA Group, a provider of consulting and services in electronic technologies, may also have applications in aerospace technology, although it is not directly related to parts manufacturing. These transactions highlight Ardian's engagement in sectors that support the aerospace industry, suggesting a potential interest in aerospace-related investments.



Aerospace Parts 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
Tikehau CapitalParis, Île-De-France, France501-100020046
SafranParis, Île-De-France, France10001+20059
BgfLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)51-200201153
EQT GroupStockholm, Stockholm, Sweden1001-5000199430
3i Group plcLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)201-50019453
AirbusBlagnac, Occitanie, France10001+20036
Crédit Mutuel EquityParis, Île-De-France, France51-20019882
Scottish EnterpriseGlasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)1001-5000199155
OmnesParis, Île-De-France, France51-20019998
Parkwalk AdvisorsLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)11-50200917
CrowdcubeLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)51-20020103
LdcLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)51-200198115
Baillie GiffordEdinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)1001-5000190813
ArdianParis, Île-De-France, France1001-5000199621


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