Boeing Opens Application for University Innovation Program

Boeing has launched the application period for the 2024-25 Boeing University Innovation Leadership Development (BUILD) program, inviting university graduates and early-stage entrepreneurs to participate. This year, the BUILD launch featured 40 angel investors and venture capitalists who reviewed past winners’ start-up ideas, offering valuable exposure and potential investment.

Dr. G. Satheesh Reddy, President of the Aeronautical Society of India, praised the program for nurturing India’s young innovators and advancing the aerospace and defense sectors.

Chris Raymond, Boeing’s EVP and CEO of Boeing Global Services, highlighted India’s growing innovation opportunities and emphasized the BUILD program’s role in supporting the country’s start-up ecosystem.

Boeing is partnering with seven Indian incubators, including those from IITs and IISc, to run the program. Applicants are encouraged to submit ideas related to aerospace, defense, technology, social impact, and sustainability.

Salil Gupte, President of Boeing India and South Asia, expressed confidence that the collaboration with investors and incubators will help promising ideas secure necessary funding and support.

This year’s finalists will be selected for regional boot camps and will pitch their ideas on Boeing Immersion Day in January 2025. Winners will receive INR 10 lakh each to advance their projects, with guidance from Boeing mentors and industry experts.

Applications are open until October 15, 2024, at [www.boeing.co.in/boeing-in-india/build](http://www.boeing.co.in/boeing-in-india/build). Eligibility includes 2024 university graduates, faculty members, and emerging entrepreneurs.

In 2023, BUILD attracted over 1,200 ideas from more than 2,200 participants. Boeing India continues to support skill development through initiatives like the HorizonX India Innovation Challenge and the Accelerated Aircraft Maintenance Engineers Apprenticeship.