Gilmour Space Technologies has secured $217 million (US$145 million) in private equity investment to support the next phase of growth in Australia's domestic space capability.
The Series E round was jointly led by the National Reconstruction Fund Corporation (NRFC) and Hostplus, with participation from Future Fund, Blackbird, Funds SA, HESTA, NGS Super, Main Sequence, QIC, and Brighter Super. It lifts the company's valuation above $1 billion, reflecting the strategic importance of its homegrown space technology, hundreds-strong supply chain and manufacturing base in the region.
Founded on the Gold Coast, Gilmour Space is building an end-to-end sovereign space capability spanning the design, manufacture, test, and launch of rockets and satellites in Australia.
Co-founder and CEO Adam Gilmour said: "This investment reflects strong investor confidence in our team and in Australia's ability to build and operate critical space infrastructure at home. We've reached important technical and business milestones. Our focus now is on delivering reliable and regular access to space for customers both at home and abroad."
“By building sovereign space capability that underpins our everyday life – from Earth observation and communications to national security – Gilmour’s efforts will secure Australia’s access to essential space services, strengthen the country’s advanced manufacturing base, and create highly-skilled jobs and opportunities in the region," NRFC CEO David Gall said.
Gilmour Space's milestones include Australia's first sovereign orbital launch attempt from home soil, the successful on-orbit operation of its 100-kilogram ElaraSat satellite platform, and the establishment of Bowen Orbital Spaceport, the country's first licensed commercial orbital launch facility in North Queensland.
Proceeds from the raise will be used to support continued development and qualification of its Eris orbital launch vehicle, scale rocket and satellite manufacturing, expand test and launch infrastructure, and grow the company's workforce to meet global demand for space launch services.