We're happy to announce that Balnord has joined the ESA Investor Network.
‍
The European Space Agency is building a bridge between the space sector and private capital. We're joining that effort as part of their Investor Network, a community of investors working alongside ESA to identify high-potential space companies, exchange technical expertise, and help route private funding into the sector.
‍
For us, this is a natural fit. Space is already a meaningful part of our portfolio: ATMOS Space Cargo, Astrolight, Infinite Orbits, Satim, among others. We've seen firsthand how much deep technical validation matters when evaluating companies at this frontier. Access to ESA's scientific and commercial expertise makes us better investors.
‍
Europe's technological autonomy will be built by those willing to work hand in hand: space agencies, institutions, academia, industry, deep tech founders, and private capital alike. Proud to be part of that effort.
‍
The ESA Investor Network connects space start-ups, potential investors and ESA programmes. Here's what being part of the network means in practice:‍

The members of the ESA Investor Network benefit from advice and support on matters including technical and market assessment of investments. Additional strategic initiatives benefiting both the investors and ESA can also be launched. 
‍
Members have access to exclusive opportunities stemming from ESA’s Business Incubation Centre and other ESA commercial programmes, as well as dedicated investor days. Formal meetings involving General Partners can also be organised to facilitate exchange of information between investors and co-investments.  
‍
By participating in ESA activities, selection boards and pitch competitions, members can gain early access to information and advice from technical experts. They also benefit to an access to ESA’s wider network, including its partnerships with financial institutions. 
‍
ESA is actively involved in the European Commission’s Cassini initiative and collaborates with the European Union Agency for the Space Programme (EUSPA). And it has signed collaboration agreements with the European Investment Fund and the European Investment Bank for the benefit of investors willing to invest in Space-related enterprises. Capacity-building workshops help investors gain a better understanding of processes and markets. Investors are also regularly invited to various events involving the commercial space sector around Europe. This facilitates stronger links between national ecosystems and creates business opportunities.  
‍
We're looking forward to working with the ESA team and the wider network to back the next generation of European space companies.

More details about ESA Investor Network you can find on the official site of the program.

Photo credits: ESA (European Space Agency) astronaut Luca Parmitano is pictured tethered to the International Space Station CC