Blue Origin seeks $10 billion in first outside funding round

Blue Origin is raising $10 billion as it works to catch up with SpaceX, according to Business Insider. CEO Dave Limp told employees in a memo that the company would raise funds at a $130 billion valuation.

The move is notable because it marks the first time Blue Origin has tapped external investors. Jeff Bezos founded the company in 2000 and has self-funded it ever since, Business Insider reported.

In the memo, Limp said Blue Origin is entering a period in which “opportunities in space are expanding rapidly.” He described the investment as a “clear vote of confidence” from investors and said it validates the company’s long-term ambition and credibility.

Limp also cautioned employees not to treat valuation as the mission or finish line. He wrote that execution, innovation, and delivering for customers would remain the key measures.

The funding push comes as Blue Origin races to close the gap with Elon Musk’s SpaceX. Business Insider reported that SpaceX has completed hundreds of rocket launches, while Blue Origin has completed a handful of orbital tests.

SpaceX also raised a record-breaking $86 billion when it went public last month, surpassing a $2 trillion valuation. That contrast helps explain why outside capital could matter for Blue Origin’s next phase.

The New York Times’ DealBook earlier reported the raise is being led by asset management firm Coatue Management, with a $2 billion contribution from Bezos, according to Business Insider. Blue Origin did not immediately respond to Business Insider’s request for comment.

Limp told employees the company would share more details as available and take questions at an upcoming Town Hall on July 30. For readers tracking the commercial space race, the key questions are investor appetite, execution, and how quickly Blue Origin can turn new funding into progress.