The Aerospace and Defense industry involves the development, production, and maintenance of aircraft, spacecraft, and defense systems. This includes commercial aviation, military aviation, space exploration, and defense technologies.
The global aerospace and defense market was valued at approximately $850 billion in 2020 and is projected to reach $1.2 trillion by 2026, growing at a CAGR of 5.8%. The growth of this industry is driven by increasing demand for air travel, advancements in aerospace technology, and the need for national security and defense capabilities.
Aerospace and defense have a significant impact on society by enabling global connectivity, advancing scientific research, and ensuring national security. Commercial aviation supports international trade and tourism, providing economic benefits and fostering cultural exchange.
Military aviation and defense systems protect national interests and maintain geopolitical stability. These systems are crucial for ensuring national security and responding to global threats.
Space exploration drives technological innovation, contributing to our understanding of the universe and enabling new applications such as satellite communications and Earth observation. This sector is key to advancing scientific knowledge and developing new technologies.
The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the aerospace industry, with reduced air travel demand and supply chain disruptions. However, the industry has shown resilience, with continued investment in defense and space exploration.
The industry faces challenges related to environmental sustainability, regulatory compliance, and the high costs of research and development. Addressing these challenges is crucial for sustaining growth and innovation.
Despite these challenges, the potential benefits of aerospace and defense innovations are immense. Continued investment and innovation in this sector are essential for driving growth. As technology continues to advance, the aerospace and defense industry will play a crucial role in shaping the future of transportation, security, and exploration, providing innovative solutions that enhance connectivity, safety, and scientific discovery.
To connect with VCs in the Aerospace & Defense sector, target firms such as Andreessen Horowitz, Bessemer Venture Partners, and Lux Capital. Research their investment portfolios to understand their focus areas and tailor your approach accordingly.
Networking through industry conferences, aerospace summits, and defense forums can provide opportunities to meet VC partners. These events are crucial for building relationships and understanding investor interests in aerospace and defense innovations.
When pitching, focus on demonstrating the market potential, technological innovation, and scalability of your aerospace or defense solution. Be prepared to discuss your business model, customer acquisition strategies, and revenue projections in detail to highlight the viability and growth potential of your solution.
Participating in demo days hosted by aerospace accelerators or incubators can help you showcase your technology to a broader audience of VCs. These events provide a platform to present your innovation and receive valuable feedback from potential investors.
Crafting a compelling story about your product’s impact and the problem it solves will resonate well with VC investors who are looking for high-growth potential startups. Emphasize the unique value proposition and real-world applications of your technology.
Following up with a comprehensive pitch deck that includes market analysis, go-to-market strategy, and potential exit opportunities can further strengthen your case. This demonstrates that you have a strategic plan for growth and impact.
Highlighting any strategic partnerships or collaborations with major aerospace or defense companies can also add weight to your pitch. Demonstrating established connections can reassure VCs of your industry relevance and network strength.
Ensuring that you present a well-rounded team with expertise in both aerospace technology and business development will appeal to VCs looking for capable execution of your vision. A strong team is often a critical factor in investment decisions.
To connect with VCs in the Aerospace & Defense sector, target firms such as Sequoia Capital, Andreessen Horowitz, and Lux Capital. These firms have a strong track record of investing in successful aerospace and defense startups.
Sequoia Capital, known for backing companies like SpaceX and Northrop Grumman, focuses on high-growth potential and market disruption. They seek startups that offer groundbreaking technologies and significant industry impact.
Andreessen Horowitz, with investments in companies like Planet Labs and Orbital Insight, looks for innovative aerospace solutions that can scale globally. Their interest lies in technologies that provide significant advancements and broad applications.
Lux Capital, with a portfolio including Zoox and Vicarious, seeks out startups with strong aerospace technologies and scalable business models. They prioritize companies that can offer substantial technological progress and market viability.
To connect with these VCs, research their investment portfolios and identify partners who have shown interest in your industry. Attend industry conferences, aerospace summits, and defense forums where these VCs are likely to be present.
Participating in demo days hosted by aerospace tech accelerators or incubators can also provide exposure. These events offer opportunities to showcase your product to a broader audience of potential investors.
When pitching to VCs, emphasize your startup’s market opportunity, technological innovation, and scalability. Be prepared to discuss your business model, customer acquisition strategies, and revenue projections in detail.
Crafting a compelling story about your product’s impact and the problem it solves will resonate well with VC investors. Highlight the unique aspects and potential of your solution.
Follow up with a comprehensive pitch deck that includes market analysis, competitive landscape, and potential exit opportunities. This will provide VCs with a clear understanding of your business and its potential.
Highlighting any strategic partnerships or collaborations with major aerospace companies or defense organizations can also add weight to your pitch. These relationships can demonstrate market validation and growth potential.
Ensuring that you present a well-rounded team with expertise in both aerospace technology and business development will appeal to VCs looking for capable execution of your vision. A strong team is crucial for successful implementation and growth.
San Francisco California - San Francisco Bay Area - New York City, U.S.A.
Software (Web Marketplace Saas..) • Media • Businesses Solutions • FinTech (& Financials services) • Hardware (& Manufacturing) • Retail (& E-Commerce) • Blockchain (& Cryptos) • Gaming (& eSports) • Cloud Services (& Infrastructure) • Impact • Payments • Robotics • Aerospace (& Defense) • Nanotechnology • Online Social • Consumer
Goldman Sachs is a global leader in corporate equity investing. Since 1986, Goldman Sachs Sachs and its predecessor business have invested over $82 billion of equity in over 600 companies globally. Goldman Sachs is currently investing its GS Capital Partners VI fund, comprised of $20 billion of equity, including over $7.4 billion of capital from Goldman Sachs. The fund invests across a broad range of industries in the Americas, Europe and Asia with investment targets ranging from $50 million to $800 million. In addition, the technology group within Goldman Sachs Principal Investment Area, invests in innovative technology companies across the many stages of a company's lifecycle. As of December 31, 2008 the Goldman Sachs Private Equity Group (PEG) managed over $32.8 billion across primary commitments, co-investments and secondary-market investments, with over $2.0 billion invested by Goldman Sachs and its employees. Private Capital Investing (PCI) is Goldman Sachs' investment platform dedicated to providing preferred equity and mezzanine capital to growth and middle market companies based in North America. PCI invests $20 million - $150 million of equity per transaction in the form of common, preferred, and structured equity.
New York City - , U.S.A.
Software (Web Marketplace Saas..) • PropTech • IT (& TMT) • Hospitality (& Events) • Media • Education • Businesses Solutions • FinTech (& Financials services) • Retail (& E-Commerce) • IoT (& Wearables) • CleanTech • A.I. (& Big Data) • HealthTech (& Fitness) • Web Security (& Privacy) • Gaming (& eSports) • Advertising • Analytics • Cloud Services (& Infrastructure) • Developer tools • Medical Devices (& Hospital Services) • Robotics • Aerospace (& Defense) • Real Estate (& Construction) • Healthcare (& Wellness) • Investment Management • Mobile • Online Social • Consumer
FirstMark Capital is an early stage venture capital firm investing in technology and technology-enabled companies. The firm primarily seeks to make seed and early stage investments, but also invests in later stage companies and makes follow-on investments through their opportunity fund series. It was founded in 2008 and is based in New York, New York.
New York - City, U.S.A.
Software (Web Marketplace Saas..) • PropTech • IT (& TMT) • Media • Education • BioTech • AgroTech • Businesses Solutions • FinTech (& Financials services) • Hardware (& Manufacturing) • Energy • Retail (& E-Commerce) • Sales (& Marketing) • Cosmetics (& Fashion) • Entertainment (& Sports) • IoT (& Wearables) • CleanTech • A.I. (& Big Data) • HealthTech (& Fitness) • Blockchain (& Cryptos) • Web Security (& Privacy) • Gaming (& eSports) • Advertising • Analytics • Cloud Services (& Infrastructure) • Developer tools • GovTech • Insurance (& InsurTech) • Local commerce • Logistics (& Distribution) • Material Science • Medical Devices (& Hospital Services) • Payments • Robotics • Aerospace (& Defense) • Real Estate (& Construction) • DeepTech • Healthcare (& Wellness) • Mobile • Mobility • Nanotechnology • Online Social • Consumer • Woman Focused
Bessemer Venture Partners is a venture capital firm based in Redwood City, California. The firm focuses on investing in companies operating in the clean technology, energy, healthcare, financial services, mobile, data security, cloud computing, software, communications and manufacturing sectors.
Austin Texas, U.S.A.
Software (Web Marketplace Saas..) • IT (& TMT) • Media • Education • Businesses Solutions • FinTech (& Financials services) • Energy • Retail (& E-Commerce) • Sales (& Marketing) • CleanTech • A.I. (& Big Data) • HealthTech (& Fitness) • Web Security (& Privacy) • Autonomous vehicles (& Cars) • Cloud Services (& Infrastructure) • GovTech • Robotics • Aerospace (& Defense) • DeepTech • Mobile • Mobility • Online Social • Woman Focused
Scout Ventures is a venture capital firm that invests in early stage companies. The firm invests in the sectors like mobile and digital payments, big data analytics, commerce and services, cloud infrastructure, social content, ad tech, the shared economy, health and quantified self and frontier tech such as AR/VR, drones, robotics and autonomous vehicles.
New York City, United States
Software (Web Marketplace Saas..) • IT (& TMT) • Education • Businesses Solutions • FinTech (& Financials services) • Hardware (& Manufacturing) • Retail (& E-Commerce) • CleanTech • A.I. (& Big Data) • HealthTech (& Fitness) • Web Security (& Privacy) • Insurance (& InsurTech) • Logistics (& Distribution) • Material Science • Medical Devices (& Hospital Services) • Aerospace (& Defense) • Real Estate (& Construction) • Mobile
Growth and venture investor, entrepreneur, imperfect father, and burgeoning travel enthusiast
Arsenal Capital Partners, founded in 2000, is an industry-focused investor in middle-market niche products and services companies. The firm has $1.67 billion of committed capital under management and targets businesses across all sectors in the $50 to $250 million enterprise value range. In April 2013, Arsenal closed its third fund, Capital Partners III, with $875 million worth of commitments. The firm works closely with its portfolio companies by aggregating buying power and sharing best practices in procurement & supply chain, human capital, information technology, quality & six sigma, and program management. The firm focuses on the following end markets: Healthcare Pharmaceutical Services (Medical Devices, Healthcare Services); Specialty Industrial Specialty Chemicals & Materials (Aerospace Defense, Transportation & Logistics, Commercial / Industrial Services, Printing & Packaging); and Financial Services (Transaction Processing, Business Services, Financial Technology, Commercial & Consumer Finance, Insurance & Brokerage, Asset Management). Arsenal Capital Partners targets equity investments of $25 to $75 million in each portfolio company. Arsenal has an additional office in Shanghai, China.
Irvine, California, U.S.A.
IT (& TMT) • BioTech • Businesses Solutions • Hardware (& Manufacturing) • Energy • CleanTech • A.I. (& Big Data) • Material Science • Medical Devices (& Hospital Services) • Robotics • Aerospace (& Defense) • Real Estate (& Construction) • Investment Management • Mobile
Lux Capital is a venture capital firm based in New York, New York. The firm was established in 2000 and invests in emerging technologies in the physical and life science sectors.
Seattle - Washington, U.S.A.
Software (Web Marketplace Saas..) • PropTech • IT (& TMT) • Education • BioTech • AgroTech • Businesses Solutions • FinTech (& Financials services) • Hardware (& Manufacturing) • Energy • Retail (& E-Commerce) • IoT (& Wearables) • CleanTech • A.I. (& Big Data) • HealthTech (& Fitness) • Blockchain (& Cryptos) • Web Security (& Privacy) • Analytics • Autonomous vehicles (& Cars) • Cloud Services (& Infrastructure) • Developer tools • Food & Beverage • GovTech • Impact • Local commerce • Logistics (& Distribution) • Material Science • Medical Devices (& Hospital Services) • Payments • Robotics • Aerospace (& Defense) • Real Estate (& Construction) • DeepTech • Healthcare (& Wellness) • Mobile • Nanotechnology • Online Social • Consumer • Woman Focused
Khosla Ventures is a venture capital firm that focuses on making investments in early and later stage companies as well as seed funding for early-stage companies. The firm invests in the enterprise, advertising, financial services, semiconductors, health, big data, agriculture/food, sustainable energy and robotics industries, with a particular focus on the internet and clean technology sectors. It was established in 2004 and is headquartered in Menlo Park, California.
San Francisco California - San Francisco Bay Area, U.S.A.
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Crosslink Capital is a venture capital and growth equity firm that invests in the big data and analytics, consumer internet, core technology, digital health, digital marketing, fintech, internet services and software services sectors. The firm was founded in 1989 and is based in based in San Francisco, California.
Menlo Park - California, U.S.A.
Software (Web Marketplace Saas..) • PropTech • Hospitality (& Events) • Media • Education • BioTech • AgroTech • Businesses Solutions • FinTech (& Financials services) • Hardware (& Manufacturing) • Energy • Retail (& E-Commerce) • Sales (& Marketing) • IoT (& Wearables) • CleanTech • A.I. (& Big Data) • HealthTech (& Fitness) • Blockchain (& Cryptos) • Web Security (& Privacy) • Gaming (& eSports) • Advertising • Analytics • Autonomous vehicles (& Cars) • Cloud Services (& Infrastructure) • Developer tools • Future Of Work • Food & Beverage • GovTech • Impact • Insurance (& InsurTech) • Local commerce • Logistics (& Distribution) • Material Science • Medical Devices (& Hospital Services) • Messaging • Payments • Robotics • Aerospace (& Defense) • Real Estate (& Construction) • Healthcare (& Wellness) • Investment Management • Mobile • Mobility • Nanotechnology • Online Social • Consumer • Pharmaceutical (& Medicine) • Woman Focused
Andreessen Horowitz is a venture capital firm that is headquartered in Menlo Park, California and was founded in 2009. The firm specializes in seed, early stage, mid stage, later stage and growth stage investments. The firm invests in media, software, mobile, internet, infrastructure and technology sectors.
Miami - Florida, U.S.A.
Software (Web Marketplace Saas..) • PropTech • Other • IT (& TMT) • Media • Education • BioTech • Businesses Solutions • FinTech (& Financials services) • Hardware (& Manufacturing) • Energy • CleanTech • A.I. (& Big Data) • HealthTech (& Fitness) • Blockchain (& Cryptos) • Analytics • GovTech • Impact • Insurance (& InsurTech) • Logistics (& Distribution) • Medical Devices (& Hospital Services) • Payments • Robotics • Aerospace (& Defense) • Real Estate (& Construction) • Healthcare (& Wellness) • Investment Management • Mobility • Consumer
Founded in 2005, Founders Fund is a venture capital firm headquartered in San Francisco, California. The firm invests in the consumer internet, biotechnology, advanced machines and intelligence, aerospace, transportation, analytic, software, nanotechnology, telecommunication, education, robotics, healthcare, information technology, and media sectors.
The firm and its partners have been early backers of some of the most impactful companies of the past decade, including Airbnb, Facebook, Palantir and SpaceX.
Founders Fund pursues a founder-friendly investment strategy, providing maximum support with minimum interference.
As of 2022, Founders Fund an aditional $5 billion in new capital and brought the firm's aggregate capital under management to more than $11 billion
However, we have learned from different sources that in 2023 Founders Fund has quietly cut the size of its eighth venture capital fund in half, from around $1.8 billion to around $900 million, to adapt to uncertain market conditions. [1]
[1] - axios.com/2023/03/03/founders-fund-slashes-vc-peter-thiel
New York City, U.S.A.
Software (Web Marketplace Saas..) • BioTech • Businesses Solutions • FinTech (& Financials services) • Retail (& E-Commerce) • CleanTech • A.I. (& Big Data) • HealthTech (& Fitness) • Blockchain (& Cryptos) • Web Security (& Privacy) • Developer tools • Robotics • Aerospace (& Defense) • DeepTech • Nanotechnology • Consumer • Woman Focused
Founded in 2016, Afore Capital is a San Francisco, California based venture capital firm to support product-oriented founders at the very earliest stage (pre-seed).
San Francisco Bay Area - San Francisco California, U.S.A.
BioTech • Hardware (& Manufacturing) • Energy • CleanTech • Impact • Material Science • Robotics • Aerospace (& Defense) • Woman Focused
Cantos is a pre-seed and seed-stage venture capital investment fund that invests in the application of new technologies to earth-shaping industries. The firm was founded in 2016 and is based in San Francisco, California. It invests in the industrial technology, financial technology, computational biology, artificial intelligence and health-tech sectors.