Boeing Opens Applications for Fifth BUILD Program, Fueling India's Startup Ecosystem
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Boeing announced the fifth edition of its BUILD program for 2025-26, reinforcing support for India's student innovators and early-stage startups.
Key Takeaways
- •Boeing opened applications for the fifth edition of its BUILD program (2025-26) on February 3, focusing on India's student innovators and early-stage startups.
- •The program targets innovation in aerospace and defence, technology, social impact, and sustainability sectors.
- •Winners will receive a financial grant of INR 10 lakh (approximately $12,000 USD) and mentorship from Boeing industry experts.
- •The initiative supports the projected demand for nearly 3,300 new aircraft in India and South Asia by 2044, requiring a strong local talent pipeline.
The Boeing University Innovation Leadership Development (BUILD) program has opened applications for its fifth edition, running from 2025–2026. This initiative reinforces Boeing's long-standing support for India student innovators and early-stage startups. The program, launched in 2019, offers a platform for graduates and entrepreneurs. It helps them pitch and develop their ideas into market-ready solutions.
Nurturing Innovation in India
BUILD is designed to de-risk early-stage innovation in India. It strengthens startup readiness and accelerates the journey from concept to deployment. The program supports ideas across four key areas. These include aerospace and defence, technology, social impact and sustainability.
In 2024, the program's fourth edition saw record participation. Over 2,000 ideas were submitted by more than 2,700 participants. This high engagement highlights the depth of the India startup ecosystem.
Boeing's commitment goes beyond mentorship. The company sources over $1.25 billion annually from India. It also employs nearly 7,000 people in the country.
Bill McSherry, Boeing's vice president of State Advocacy and Global Engagement, noted the program's success. He stated that BUILD has a proven track record. It helps shape students' and entrepreneurs' dreams and ambitions.
The Path to Viable Business Offerings
The Boeing BUILD program brings together key stakeholders. It connects academia, industry, investors, and incubators. This integrated approach is crucial for success. Salil Gupte, president of Boeing India and South Asia, praised the local talent. He said India's startup community offers bold thinking and deep technical capability.
Partner Incubators and Mentorship
Boeing partners with seven top technology business incubator organizations. These partners are integral to the program's structure. They include the Society for Innovation at IIT Bombay and FITT at IIT Delhi. Other partners are IIT Gandhinagar, IIT Madras, IISC Bengaluru, T-Hub Hyderabad, and KIIT Bhubaneshwar.
Shortlisted teams will attend a regional boot camp. Finalists then pitch their ideas on Boeing Immersion Day and the BUILD finals in July 2026. Winners receive a financial grant of INR 10 lakh each. Boeing industry expertise and mentors work closely with the finalists. They refine ideas into viable business offerings.
Strategic Importance for Aviation
The program is a strategic investment in future talent. It addresses the growing needs of India's aviation sector. Boeing forecasts strong demand in the region. The company projects a need for nearly 3,300 new aircraft by 2044. This massive growth requires a deep and diverse talent base.
Key opportunities for innovators lie in sustainable aviation. They also exist in digital solutions and advanced materials. Initiatives like BUILD help create a globally competitive talent base. This talent is essential for supporting safety and quality as the sector scales. The program is critical for accelerating ideas and solutions that will define the future of flight. Interested applicants can find more details on the official Boeing India BUILD website.
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Written by Ujjwal Sukhwani
Aviation News Editor & Industry Analyst delivering clear coverage for a worldwide audience. Covers flight operations, safety regulations, and market trends with expert analysis.
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