Airbus Ventures Launches $155 Million Fund for Space Startups

Airbus Ventures, a prominent investor in space startups, has announced a new $155 million fund, "Fund-Y," dedicated to supporting early-stage deep tech companies. The fund aims to capitalize on the burgeoning space industry and broader "deep tech" ecosystem, targeting startups tackling challenging scientific and engineering problems.

• Fund-Y marks Airbus Ventures' fourth fund, expanding its portfolio to $465 million under management.
• The fund reflects the increasing investment activity in the space industry, particularly from venture capital, after a period of reduced investment.

A Focus on Deep Tech and Long-Term Opportunities

Airbus Ventures defines deep tech as companies pushing the boundaries of science and engineering, often facing significant technical hurdles. The fund's focus on long-term opportunities aligns with the nature of the space industry, where returns may take years to materialize.

• Historically, Airbus Ventures has allocated about a third of its capital to the space sector, backing 14 companies.
• Notable investments include Impulse, a propulsion startup founded by SpaceX veteran Tom Mueller, lunar cargo company ispace, and space tracking service LeoLabs.

Airbus Ventures' Approach to Space Investment

Airbus Ventures distinguishes itself from traditional corporate venture capital arms by maintaining a distance from its parent company, Airbus. This approach allows the firm to operate independently and attract investment from outside sources.

• More than half of Fund-Y comes from external capital, including institutional investors, private equity firms, and family offices.
• The firm emphasizes the importance of funding founders with proven execution abilities and a deep understanding of their respective fields.

Expanding Global Reach and Focus on Europe and Japan

While Airbus Ventures has traditionally focused on the US space industry, Fund-Y will have a global scope. The firm sees significant potential in the space startups emerging in Europe and Japan.

• Airbus Ventures believes that the space industry is not a "place of immediate reward," requiring patience and a focus on long-term growth.
• The firm aims to identify and support founders who can navigate the complexities and challenges inherent in the space industry.

Investing in the Future of Space

Airbus Ventures' commitment to investing in space startups reflects the growing importance of the space industry as a driver of innovation and economic growth. The firm's focus on deep tech and long-term opportunities positions it as a key player in shaping the future of space exploration and technology.

• The space industry is expected to continue attracting substantial investment in the coming years as private companies increasingly drive exploration and commercialization efforts.
• Airbus Ventures' Fund-Y demonstrates the continued confidence in the space industry's potential for growth and disruption.