The spacecraft components manufacturers industry in the US focuses on creating essential parts and systems for both crewed and uncrewed space missions. Companies range from seasoned aerospace giants like Boeing and Lockheed Martin to nimble startups innovating in satellite technologies. With ambitions to expand beyond Earth, the industry is set for a transformation, fueled by increased demand due to commercial space endeavors, lunar missions, and Mars exploration. Notably, advancements in propulsion systems and satellite manufacturing are paving the way for new opportunities and investment prospects, making this sector a significant player in the aerospace economy.


The investors in the spacecraft components manufacturers sector present a mix of corporate powerhouses and venture capital firms, headquartered in strategic locations like California and Virginia. With deal counts in 2024 ranging from a handful to several hundred, investors such as Lockheed Martin, Y Combinator, and NASA demonstrate diverse engagement levels. Founded from as early as 1912 to as recently as 2023, these firms vary in size, supporting startups and established companies alike with robust financial backing. Their investments reflect a keen focus on aerospace innovation and technology advancement, contributing to the industry’s growth.


Top 19 Spacecraft Components Manufacturers Investors in the US


1. 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 includes resources like the Startup School and co-founder matching services. Y Combinator has successfully launched over 4,000 startups, establishing itself as a key player in the technology startup ecosystem. Among its notable investments in the aerospace sector, Y Combinator has backed companies such as Relativity Space, which has raised significant funding across multiple rounds, including $140 million in Series C and $35 million in Series B. This involvement highlights Y Combinator's commitment to supporting innovative companies in the aerospace industry, particularly those focused on rocket manufacturing and spacecraft components.


2. 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 focused on civil space programs and aeronautics research, founded in 1958. With a workforce of over 10,000, NASA conducts space exploration missions, supports the International Space Station, and develops advanced spacecraft. In recent years, NASA has engaged in significant transactions within the spacecraft components sector, including a $3.2 billion contract with Boeing for the manufacture of core and upper stages for the Space Launch System (SLS) rockets, which are crucial for future Artemis missions to the Moon and beyond. Additionally, NASA has provided grants to companies like Blue Origin and SpaceX, further emphasizing its role in supporting the development of spacecraft components through financial backing and partnerships. These activities highlight NASA's commitment to advancing aerospace technology and its integral role in the spacecraft components manufacturing industry.


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

Deep Tech Fund (an Alumni Ventures Fund) is a venture capital firm founded in 2023, based in Manchester, New Hampshire. 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. Notably, the fund has made significant investments in the aerospace sector, including multiple rounds of funding for Ursa Major, which raised $100 million in its Series D round in April 2023, and previous rounds in 2021 and 2020. Additionally, the fund has invested in Phase Four, a company focused on propulsion systems, further emphasizing its commitment to the aerospace and spacecraft components industry.


4. Starburst


Starburst is a venture capital firm based in El Segundo, California, founded in 2012. It specializes in the aerospace and defense industry, providing startup acceleration, strategy consulting, and venture investments to help clients innovate and navigate the complexities of these sectors. Starburst has been actively involved in funding various startups within the aerospace domain, including Modularity Space, Morpheus Space, Canopy Aerospace, Reflex Aerospace, and Launcher. These transactions highlight their commitment to supporting companies that are developing technologies relevant to spacecraft components and systems, making them a significant player in the aerospace investment landscape.


5. 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 headquartered 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. Recently, Lockheed Martin has made significant investments in the spacecraft components sector, particularly through its involvement with Terran Orbital. In August 2024, Lockheed Martin announced a definitive agreement to acquire Terran Orbital for approximately $450 million, aimed at enhancing its satellite manufacturing capabilities. Additionally, Lockheed Martin invested $100 million in Terran Orbital in October 2022, further solidifying its commitment to the spacecraft components industry. These transactions highlight Lockheed Martin's strategic focus on expanding its capabilities in satellite and spacecraft technologies, making it a relevant investor in this field.


6. 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, with a focus on areas such as AI, cloud computing, and semiconductor technologies. Intel Capital provides funding, strategic support, and access to Intel's extensive resources to help startups scale and innovate within the tech ecosystem. Notably, Intel Capital has participated in significant funding rounds for companies like 3D Glass Solutions, which raised $30 million in a Series C round in 2023, aimed at increasing manufacturing capacity for advanced materials that could be utilized in aerospace applications. Their involvement in this transaction, alongside Lockheed Martin Ventures, highlights their interest in sectors that may overlap with spacecraft components manufacturing. Additionally, their investments in Skyport Systems and Sand 9, while not directly related to spacecraft components, reflect a broader engagement in technology that could have applications in aerospace.


7. 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

IQT (In-Q-Tel) 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 has made significant investments in the aerospace sector, including a Series A funding round for Apex, a spacecraft mass manufacturing company, and participation in Hermeus's $100 million Series B funding round, which focuses on developing advanced aircraft. Additionally, IQT has invested in ClearSpace, a leader in in-orbit servicing and active space debris removal, highlighting its commitment to sustainable space operations. These transactions illustrate IQT's active role in supporting the development of technologies relevant to spacecraft components and the broader aerospace industry.


8. 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. Notably, Boeing has made strategic acquisitions to enhance its position in the space sector, including the acquisition of Millennium Space Systems, a company specializing in small-satellite solutions, and Hughes Electronics Corporation's space and communications business for $3.75 billion. Additionally, Boeing HorizonX Ventures led a Series B funding round for Accion Systems, which focuses on producing thrusters for satellites. These transactions highlight Boeing's active role in the spacecraft components industry and its commitment to advancing space technology.


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. With a workforce exceeding 10,000, the DoD plays a crucial role in providing military forces and services to ensure the safety of the nation. In 2024, the DoD was involved in 53 investments, including significant grants to companies in the aerospace sector. Notable transactions include a $3 million grant to Portal Space Systems in April 2024, aimed at supporting innovative space technologies, and a $72 million grant to Northrop Grumman in December 2023, which is a major player in aerospace and defense. Additionally, the DoD has funded Accion Systems with a $3 million grant in 2015, which focuses on propulsion systems for small satellites. These transactions highlight the DoD's engagement in advancing technologies relevant to spacecraft components, reinforcing its role as an investor in this field.


10. 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. They focus on supporting entrepreneurs and businesses in underserved communities, offering flexible capital solutions to help them grow and thrive. Notably, Advantage Capital has been involved in several transactions relevant to the aerospace industry, including multiple debt financing rounds for ACT Aerospace between 2015 and 2018. This involvement highlights their engagement in the aerospace sector, which is pertinent to spacecraft components manufacturing. Additionally, they recently invested in Malones CNC Machining Inc., a company that may have applications in precision machining relevant to aerospace components. Overall, Advantage Capital's diverse investment portfolio and specific transactions in the aerospace sector position them as a potential investor in spacecraft components manufacturers.


11. 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 headquartered in Berwyn, Pennsylvania. The company provides advanced analytical and measurement solutions to various sectors, including aerospace, energy, and medical. Ametek has made several strategic acquisitions to bolster its presence in the aerospace industry, such as the acquisition of Muirhead Aerospace Limited, which specializes in motion technology products and avionics repair services. This acquisition, along with others like NSI-MI Technologies, demonstrates Ametek's commitment to enhancing its capabilities in aerospace and defense markets. With a workforce of over 10,000 employees and a focus on innovation and operational excellence, Ametek addresses complex challenges faced by its customers through a diverse range of products and services.


12. 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 invested in several companies within the space industry, including Momentus, which raised $25.5 million in Series A funding to conduct demonstration flights, and Starfish Space, which raised $7 million in a seed round for its satellite servicing operations. Additionally, they invested in Quindar, which focuses on mission management software for satellite constellations, highlighting their commitment to supporting innovative solutions in the spacecraft components sector.


13. Government of Canada

  • Website: canada.ca
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Canada, Kentucky, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1999
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 137
  • LinkedIn: government-of-canada

The Government of Canada is a public entity that provides a wide range of services and information to Canadian citizens and residents, addressing various needs including employment, immigration, health care, and taxation. Founded in 1999, it operates through multiple departments and agencies to ensure access to essential services and support for individuals and businesses across the country. In the context of investments, the Government of Canada has been involved in several significant transactions related to the aerospace sector, including grants to Harwood Custom Composites and Maxar Technologies, as well as debt financing for H55 and Telesat. These transactions highlight the government's commitment to supporting the aerospace industry, particularly in spacecraft components manufacturing, by providing financial assistance to key players in the sector.


14. 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 a Cleveland, Ohio-based aerospace manufacturer founded in 1993, specializing in engineered aerospace components. The company serves both commercial and military aircraft manufacturers and operators, 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 Data Device Corp. for $1 billion, which specializes in high-reliability databus and power controller products for aerospace and defense applications, highlighting their commitment to advanced aerospace technologies. Additionally, their acquisition of Arkwin Industries for $286 million and AmSafe Global Holdings for approximately $750 million further demonstrates their strategic focus on enhancing their portfolio in the aerospace sector, which is closely related to spacecraft components manufacturing.


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 focus on providing tailored investment solutions to institutional investors, Carlyle aims to drive long-term value. Notably, Carlyle has made significant investments in the aerospace sector, including a private equity round for SolAero Technologies, which specializes in solar power solutions for space applications, and an equity investment in Nordam Group, an aerospace repair and manufacturing company that has been pivotal in supporting the aerospace industry. These transactions highlight Carlyle's commitment to investing in companies that contribute to the aerospace and spacecraft components manufacturing sectors, showcasing their relevance in this industry.


16. Lux Capital

  • Website: luxcapital.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2000
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 47
  • LinkedIn: lux-capital

Lux Capital is a venture capital firm based in New York, founded in 2000, that specializes in investing in science and technology companies. They provide venture capital investment and advisory services to startups across various innovative sectors, helping them navigate challenges and achieve growth. Notably, Lux Capital has participated in significant funding rounds for companies like Varda Space Industries, which raised a total of $90 million in a Series B round to scale up production of spacecraft for pharmaceutical manufacturing in orbit. They also participated in Varda's earlier funding rounds, including a $42 million Series A and a $9 million seed round. Additionally, Lux Capital invested in Relativity Space, which is known for its innovative approach to rocket manufacturing. These transactions highlight Lux Capital's commitment to supporting advancements in the aerospace and spacecraft components sectors.


17. Space Capital

  • Website: spacecapital.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2012
  • Headcount: 1-10
  • Number of deals in 2024: 3
  • LinkedIn: spacecapital

Space Capital is a venture capital fund based in New York, founded in 2012, that focuses on early-stage investments in space technology companies. They provide capital and strategic support to startups in the space sector, aiming to unlock the value in space technology stacks. Their portfolio reflects a commitment to the growth of the space economy, with notable investments including SpaceX, which raised significant funding in multiple rounds, and companies like Made In Space and Astrobotic Technology, both of which are involved in developing technologies for space applications. Additionally, Space Capital participated in the Seed funding round for Lunar Outpost, a company focused on commercial planetary mobility, further emphasizing their engagement in the spacecraft components and technology landscape.


18. Airbus Ventures

  • Website: airbusventures.vc
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Menlo Park, California, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2016
  • Headcount: 1-10
  • Number of deals in 2024: 8
  • LinkedIn: airbus-ventures

Airbus Ventures is a venture capital firm founded in 2016 and based in Menlo Park, California. The firm specializes in investing in deep tech startups, with a strong focus on aerospace, autonomous mobility, and advanced materials. Airbus Ventures provides both capital and strategic support to entrepreneurs, helping them navigate the challenges of bringing innovative technologies to market. Among their notable transactions, they have invested in Morpheus Space, which is involved in developing propulsion systems for small satellites, and Isar Aerospace, a company focused on launching small satellites. These investments highlight Airbus Ventures' commitment to fostering growth in the aerospace sector, particularly in areas that are crucial for spacecraft components and technologies.


19. 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, founded in 1957 and based in Hollywood, Florida, is a leading aerospace manufacturer specializing in FAA-approved aircraft replacement parts and repair services. The company serves major airlines and military organizations, providing essential components and solutions to enhance operational efficiency and safety in aviation. In recent years, Heico has made significant strides in the spacecraft components sector through strategic acquisitions. Notably, in June 2017, Heico acquired Carbon by Design, a composites manufacturer specializing in complex carbon composites for commercial launch vehicles and spacecraft, which enhances their offerings in the commercial aviation and space markets. Additionally, their subsidiary, 3D PLUS, has made acquisitions such as TRAD SAS, a company focused on electronic component radiation testing, and VPT, Inc., which specializes in microelectronic products. These transactions reflect Heico's commitment to expanding its footprint in the aerospace and space industries, positioning them as a trusted partner in the spacecraft components market.



Spacecraft Components Manufacturers Insights: Key Investors in the US


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
Y CombinatorSan Francisco, California, United States (USA)51-2002005802
NASA - National Aeronautics and Space AdministrationWashington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)10001+195824
Deep Tech Fund (an Alumni Ventures Fund)Manchester, New Hampshire, United States (USA)51-2002023258
StarburstEl Segundo, California, United States (USA)51-20020123
Lockheed MartinBethesda, Maryland, United States (USA)10001+191219
Intel CapitalSanta Clara, California, United States (USA)11-50199123
IQT (In-Q-Tel)Arlington, Virginia, United States (USA)51-200199924
BoeingArlington, Virginia, United States (USA)10001+20027
United States Department of DefenseWashington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)10001+194953
Advantage CapitalNew Orleans, Louisiana, United States (USA)51-20019925
AmetekBerwyn, Pennsylvania, United States (USA)10001+19301
Liquid 2 VenturesSan Francisco, California, United States (USA)1-10201591
Government of CanadaCanada, Kentucky, United States (USA)10001+1999137
TransDigm Group Inc.Cleveland, Ohio, United States (USA)10001+19932
The Carlyle GroupWashington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)1001-5000198725
Lux CapitalNew York, New York, United States (USA)11-50200047
Space CapitalNew York, New York, United States (USA)1-1020123
Airbus VenturesMenlo Park, California, United States (USA)1-1020168
HeicoHollywood, Florida, United States (USA)1001-500019572


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