The contract manufacturing industry in the US serves as a backbone for various sectors by offering specialized production services. Companies in this industry range from large firms to nimble startups, focusing on everything from electronics to pharmaceuticals. With advancements in technology, contract manufacturers are increasingly incorporating automation and precision tools into their processes. This shift not only enhances efficiency but also meets the rising demand for customized and rapid production solutions. Projections indicate healthy growth ahead, fueled by sectors aiming to minimize costs and improve scalability, underscoring the importance of innovation in manufacturing strategies.


This list features an array of contract manufacturing investors, showcasing varying types of investors such as venture capitalists and private equity firms. Headquartered in key financial hubs like New York, Boston, and California, these firms collectively executed seventy-three investments in 2024. Ranging in size from small teams to large enterprises, these investors have been active since the 1970s to 2023. By allocating funds in critical manufacturing sectors, they are securing positions at the crossroads of technology and industrial progress.


Top 18 Contract Manufacturing Investors in the US


1. 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 across various sectors, including agribusiness, solar projects, and affordable housing. Notably, Advantage Capital has also made significant investments in the contract manufacturing industry, with transactions such as Malones CNC Machining Inc., which raised $3,000,000 in a venture round in 2024, and Advanced Metal Components, which secured debt financing in 2019. Their commitment to supporting entrepreneurs and businesses in underserved communities is reflected in their flexible capital solutions, which aim to help these businesses grow and thrive, particularly in the manufacturing sector.


2. 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 driving long-term value for institutional investors, Carlyle has made significant strides in various sectors, including contract manufacturing. Noteworthy transactions include the acquisition of Albany Molecular Research in 2017, a key player in pharmaceutical contract manufacturing, and a minority stake in Resonetics LLC, a manufacturer of medical devices, in 2021. Additionally, their recent acquisition of Kyoden in 2024 further emphasizes their commitment to the manufacturing sector. Carlyle's strategic investments reflect its expertise in identifying and nurturing companies that contribute to the contract manufacturing landscape, making it a valuable investor in this field.


3. 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, particularly in areas such as AI, cloud computing, and semiconductor technologies. Intel Capital not only provides funding but also offers strategic support and access to Intel's extensive resources to help startups scale and innovate within the tech ecosystem. Among their notable transactions, Intel Capital participated in the Series B funding of Fictiv, which raised $15 million to enhance on-demand manufacturing services. Additionally, they invested in 3D Glass Solutions, which raised $30 million in Series C funding to expand its US-based manufacturing capacity for high-volume production of 3D integrated passives and substrate products. These investments highlight Intel Capital's engagement in the contract manufacturing space, supporting companies that are integral to manufacturing advancements.


4. 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 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 involved in several notable transactions, including investments in Fast Radius, a company focused on advanced manufacturing solutions, and Inkbit, which is developing metal-based 3D printing technology. These investments reflect the fund's interest in innovative manufacturing processes and technologies, aligning with the contract manufacturing sector. Additionally, their support for companies like Inchfab and Formlogic further emphasizes their engagement in the manufacturing technology landscape.


5. 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 provides asset management solutions to both institutional investors and individual clients, helping them navigate complex investment landscapes to achieve strong financial returns. Notably, KKR has been active in the industrials sector, with significant transactions such as the acquisition of Bushu Pharma for $769 million in December 2022, and the acquisition of Minnesota Rubber & Plastics from Norwest Equity Partners in October 2018. Additionally, KKR acquired LS Mtron in July 2017, further emphasizing their involvement in manufacturing-related investments. These transactions highlight KKR's strategic focus on companies that operate within the manufacturing domain, reinforcing their relevance as a contract manufacturing investor.


6. The Riverside Company


The Riverside Company is a private equity investment firm based in New York, specializing in providing flexible capital solutions and strategic guidance to smaller middle-market businesses across various industries. Founded in 1988, Riverside manages a diverse portfolio of over 140 companies globally. Among their notable transactions, they have acquired several companies relevant to the contract manufacturing sector, including Xcentric Mold & Engineering, which focuses on injection molding and CNC machining services, and Trend Technologies, which also operates in the manufacturing space. These acquisitions highlight Riverside's commitment to investing in companies that provide essential manufacturing services, making them a significant player in the contract manufacturing landscape.


7. 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 comprehensive range of services including investment banking, asset management, and wealth management, catering to a diverse clientele that includes corporations, financial institutions, and individuals. Notably, Goldman Sachs has made significant investments in the manufacturing sector, such as the acquisition of Autocam Corporation for $390 million in 2004, which specializes in precision manufacturing. Additionally, their acquisition of Boyd Corporation further emphasizes their commitment to the manufacturing industry. Goldman Sachs has also invested in Semiconductor Manufacturing International, raising substantial funds in both Series A and Series C rounds, highlighting their engagement in the semiconductor manufacturing space, a critical area of contract manufacturing.


8. Advent


Advent International Corporation is a private equity firm founded in 1984 and based in Boston, Massachusetts. The firm specializes in buyouts and investments across various sectors, focusing on long-term value creation for its portfolio companies. Advent has been active in the pharmaceutical industry, exemplified by their recent acquisition of a 50.1% stake in Suven Pharmaceuticals, a drug industry supplier, for approximately USD 761.5 million. Notably, Advent also acquired Baxter Pharmaceutical Solutions LLC, which provides contract development and manufacturing services for pharmaceuticals, highlighting their engagement in the contract manufacturing space. Additionally, they have invested in ZCL Chemicals, further demonstrating their commitment to the pharmaceutical sector. Advent operates globally, providing capital and strategic guidance to help companies achieve growth and navigate market challenges.


9. 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 established in 1949, responsible for national security and military operations. It plays a crucial role in providing military forces and services to ensure the safety of the nation. The DoD has been actively involved in various transactions that support contract manufacturing, particularly in the context of enhancing domestic production capabilities. For instance, it secured a $410 million long-term loan for National Resilience to establish biomanufacturing capacity for vaccines and biologics, aiming to strengthen the domestic supply chain. Additionally, the DoD has provided grants to companies like SkyWater Technology, which focuses on semiconductor manufacturing, and TTM Technologies, indicating its commitment to fostering advanced manufacturing technologies. These transactions highlight the DoD's role in promoting manufacturing initiatives that are vital for national security and public health.


10. 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 prominent investment management firm based in New York, specializing in alternative investments across various sectors, including private equity, real estate, and credit solutions. Founded in 1985, Blackstone has built a reputation for its strategic investments aimed at creating strong businesses and delivering lasting value. Among its notable transactions in the contract manufacturing context, Blackstone acquired MB Aerospace, a company focused on engine component manufacturing and repair, and Interplex, which provides customized connector solutions. Additionally, their acquisition of Essel Propack, a packaging company, and a significant offer for a China-based outsourcing company further illustrate their engagement in sectors related to manufacturing and outsourcing. These investments reflect Blackstone's strategy to capitalize on high-growth markets and enhance its portfolio in the manufacturing domain.


11. Platinum Equity

  • Website: platinumequity.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Beverly Hills, California, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1995
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • Number of deals in 2024: 20
  • LinkedIn: platinum-equity

Platinum Equity is a private equity firm founded in 1995 and based in Beverly Hills, California. The firm specializes in mergers, acquisitions, and operations management, focusing on investing in established companies across various industries. With a portfolio of approximately 50 companies and managing over $48 billion in assets, Platinum Equity provides capital and operational expertise to enhance growth and profitability. Notably, the firm has made significant investments in the contract manufacturing sector, including the acquisition of PCI Limited, a Singapore-based electronics manufacturing services provider, and Husky Injection Molding Systems, a leader in injection molding equipment for the plastics industry. These strategic acquisitions highlight Platinum Equity's active role in the contract manufacturing landscape, further solidifying its relevance in this field.


12. Plug and Play Tech Center


Plug and Play Tech Center is an innovation hub and venture capital firm based in Sunnyvale, California, founded in 2006. They connect startups with corporations to foster growth and innovation, offering various programs including accelerator initiatives and investment opportunities. In 2023, they participated in seed funding for Imajin, a manufacturing startup, which highlights their engagement in the manufacturing sector. Additionally, they have been involved in other transactions such as Spherecube and Mantle, although these are less directly related to contract manufacturing. Their model focuses on facilitating partnerships and providing resources to enhance business development, making them a versatile investor in the technology and manufacturing landscape.


13. New Enterprise Associates (NEA)

  • Website: nea.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Menlo Park, California, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1977
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 57
  • LinkedIn: new-enterprise-associates

New Enterprise Associates (NEA) is a prominent venture capital firm based in Menlo Park, California, founded in 1977. NEA specializes in investment management and advisory services for startups, particularly in the technology and healthcare sectors. The firm partners with entrepreneurs to provide funding and strategic guidance, helping them navigate the challenges of building successful businesses. NEA operates through a collaborative approach, emphasizing long-term relationships with founders. Notably, NEA has been involved in significant transactions that intersect with contract manufacturing, such as their investment in Resilience, a biopharmaceutical company focused on transforming pharmaceutical manufacturing through innovative technologies. Additionally, NEA's investment in Semiconductor Manufacturing International underscores their engagement in the semiconductor manufacturing industry. Their involvement in Desktop Metal, a company specializing in metal 3D printing, further illustrates their interest in advanced manufacturing technologies, making them a versatile investor in the contract manufacturing landscape.


14. 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 employees, the firm provides a wide array of services including wealth management, investment banking, and capital markets. Morgan Stanley has a global presence and leverages its expertise to offer tailored financial solutions to individuals, families, corporations, and governments. In recent years, Morgan Stanley has been active in various sectors, including pharmaceuticals and chemicals, which are closely linked to contract manufacturing. For instance, their investment in Comar, a manufacturer of packaging solutions for the healthcare industry, highlights their engagement in contract manufacturing. Additionally, their participation in funding rounds for companies like Syngene, which focuses on drug research, and Maiva Pharma, which has secured significant investments for pharmaceutical development, further illustrates their involvement in industries that rely on contract manufacturing capabilities.


15. 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 leading manufacturer specializing in electronic instruments and electromechanical devices, founded in 1930 and headquartered in Berwyn, Pennsylvania. The company has a strong focus on innovation and operational excellence, providing advanced analytical and measurement solutions to various sectors, including aerospace, energy, and medical. In recent years, Ametek has made significant acquisitions to bolster its manufacturing capabilities. Notably, they acquired Kern Microtechnik, a manufacturer of high-precision machining and optical inspection solutions, enhancing their precision manufacturing capabilities. Additionally, the acquisition of Paragon Medical for approximately $1.9 billion allows Ametek to strengthen its position in the MedTech sector, focusing on medical components and instruments. Furthermore, their acquisition of B&S Aircraft Parts & Accessories and Global Tubes demonstrates Ametek's commitment to expanding its footprint in the aerospace and medical manufacturing sectors, respectively. These strategic moves highlight Ametek's role as a significant player in the contract manufacturing landscape.


16. American Industrial Partners


American Industrial Partners is a private equity firm based in New York, founded in 2005, that specializes in operationally-oriented investments in industrial businesses. With a team size of 51-200, they focus on enhancing the performance of their portfolio companies through strategic financial support and operational improvements. Their investment strategy includes acquiring companies that are integral to the manufacturing sector. Notable transactions include the acquisition of Crestview Aerospace Corporation, a manufacturer of aircraft components, for $540 million, which highlights their commitment to the aerospace manufacturing industry. Additionally, their acquisition of ADDMAN Engineering in 2021 further emphasizes their focus on advanced manufacturing capabilities. Other relevant transactions include the acquisition of Ichor Systems and Verico Technology, both of which are involved in manufacturing processes. These investments reflect American Industrial Partners' strategic approach to optimizing operations and driving growth within the industrial and manufacturing sectors.


17. 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. The IFC aims to foster economic growth and address poverty challenges in over 100 countries. Notably, the IFC has engaged in significant transactions that align with the manufacturing sector, such as a $30 million investment in Craftsman Automation, which specializes in manufacturing solutions, and a $50 million investment in Hikal Ltd., a company involved in the production of specialty chemicals and pharmaceuticals. These investments demonstrate the IFC's commitment to enhancing manufacturing capabilities and supporting sustainable development in emerging markets, making it a relevant player in the contract manufacturing industry.


18. Ampersand Capital Partners


Ampersand Capital Partners is a private equity firm based in Boston, Massachusetts, founded in 1988. The firm specializes in growth equity investments primarily in the healthcare sector, focusing on laboratory products, services, and specialty pharmaceuticals. Ampersand provides capital and strategic guidance to help its portfolio companies achieve growth and market leadership. Notably, they have been involved in significant transactions such as the acquisition of Vibalogics GmbH, a contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) that specializes in complex live biological products, highlighting their commitment to the contract manufacturing industry. Additionally, their investment in Genezen, which is expanding its technology and laboratory capabilities, further underscores their interest in supporting companies that may engage in contract manufacturing activities.



Contract Manufacturing Insights: Key Investors in the US


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
Advantage CapitalNew Orleans, Louisiana, United States (USA)51-20019925
The Carlyle GroupWashington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)1001-5000198725
Intel CapitalSanta Clara, California, United States (USA)11-50199123
Deep Tech Fund (an Alumni Ventures Fund)Manchester, New Hampshire, United States (USA)51-2002023258
KkrNew York, New York, United States (USA)1001-5000197674
The Riverside CompanyNew York, New York, United States (USA)201-500198812
Goldman SachsNew York, New York, United States (USA)10001+199859
AdventBoston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)501-1000198417
United States Department of DefenseWashington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)10001+194953
BlackstoneNew York, New York, United States (USA)1001-5000198557
Platinum EquityBeverly Hills, California, United States (USA)201-500199520
Plug and Play Tech CenterSunnyvale, California, United States (USA)501-10002006253
New Enterprise Associates (NEA)Menlo Park, California, United States (USA)51-200197757
Morgan StanleyNew York, New York, United States (USA)10001+198679
AmetekBerwyn, Pennsylvania, United States (USA)10001+19301
American Industrial PartnersNew York, New York, United States (USA)51-20020058
IFC - International Finance CorporationWashington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)1001-50001956107
Ampersand Capital PartnersBoston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)11-5019886


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