What is Orbex?
Founded in 2015, Orbex has established itself as a leader in private launch services, specifically engineered to address the unique requirements of the small satellite industry. The company distinguishes itself through the development of high-performance, low-carbon micro-launch vehicles designed for precision delivery into polar and sun-synchronous low Earth orbits. By leveraging a strategic European launch location, Orbex optimizes supply chain efficiency and reduces operational overhead for its clients. The company provides a comprehensive suite of launch services, characterized by high reliability and flexible mission profiles, positioning it as a vital partner for commercial and institutional satellite operators seeking regular, scheduled access to space.
How much funding has Orbex raised?
Orbex has raised a total of $142.6M across 5 funding rounds:
Other Financing Round
$21.1M
Grant
$3M
Other Financing Round
$24M
Series C
$66M
Series D
$28.4M
Other Financing Round (2018): $21.1M, investors not publicly disclosed
Grant (2020): $3M led by The European Horizon 2020 SME Instrument Program
Other Financing Round (2020): $24M supported by BGF, High-Tech Gründerfonds, Octopus Ventures, Elecnor, and Heartcore Capital
Series C (2024): $66M featuring Octopus Ventures, Scottish National Investment Bank, BGF, Jacobs, Danish Export and Investment Fund, and Verve Ventures
Series D (2025): $28.4M backed by Eifo, UK Government, and Octopus Ventures
Key Investors in Orbex
Octopus Ventures
Octopus Ventures is a founder focused venture capital firm backing people and ideas that aim to change the world, investing in mission driven companies across software, climate, health, consumer and financial technology, offering long term capital, guidance and community.
UK Government
GOV.UK is the official website of the UK government, providing centralized access to government services, information and guidance for citizens, residents, businesses and visitors.
Danish Export and Investment Fund
Danish Export and Investment Fund is a company that operates in the State industry, focusing on providing capital to support sustainable economic growth and innovation.
What's next for Orbex?
With the successful closure of this major strategic investment, Orbex is well-positioned to transition into a phase of accelerated commercial deployment. The company's roadmap focuses on scaling its launch cadence and enhancing the technical specifications of its micro-launch vehicles to meet the increasing demand for orbital access. Future strategic initiatives will likely prioritize the optimization of launch site infrastructure and the expansion of its service portfolio to accommodate a broader range of satellite constellations. As the space economy matures, Orbex's focus on sustainable, cost-effective launch solutions will be instrumental in maintaining its competitive advantage and supporting the next generation of space-based innovation.
See full Orbex company page