Boeing India

Boeing India is the Indian subsidiary of The Boeing Company, the global aerospace and defence corporation. Beyond its core business operations, Boeing India runs the BUILD (Boeing University Innovation Leadership Development) program — a startup innovation initiative launched in 2019 that partners with academic incubators across India to identify and support startups working on aerospace, defence, sustainability, and advanced technology challenges.

Role in the Startup Ecosystem

Boeing India operates as a corporate innovation partner in the Indian startup ecosystem. Through the BUILD program, it provides startups with access to Boeing's technical expertise, mentorship from aerospace professionals, and potential commercial pathways into Boeing's global supply chain. Unlike typical accelerators, BUILD leverages Boeing's domain-specific knowledge in aerospace engineering, advanced manufacturing, and defence systems to support deep-tech ventures that align with the company's strategic interests.

Programs and Initiatives

The BUILD program is Boeing India's flagship startup initiative. Now in its fourth edition (BUILD 4.0), the program partners with seven leading incubators across India — including FITT at IIT Delhi, SID at IISc, T-Hub, IIT Madras Incubation Cell, IIT Gandhinagar, and KIIT-TBI. Startups are selected through a competitive process that attracted 2,000+ ideas from 2,700+ participants in recent editions. Selected startups receive mentorship, access to Boeing engineers and facilities, and potential pilot or procurement opportunities. BUILD covers themes including green aviation, autonomous systems, advanced materials, and sustainable manufacturing.

Notable Alumni

BUILD alumni include Thrustworks Dynetics, HyPrix Aviation, Trishul Space, Nexus Power, Rapha Bionics, and SAP Aerospace — startups working on electric propulsion, hybrid aircraft, space technology, and aerospace components. While still early-stage, these companies represent India's emerging aerospace startup ecosystem.

Who Benefits

Indian deep-tech founders working on aerospace engineering, unmanned systems, advanced manufacturing, green aviation, defence technology, sustainability, and related domains. Startups should have a technology proposition relevant to Boeing's operational areas. The program does not require founders to relocate — startups work through Boeing's partner incubators in their respective cities. Founders who want exposure to a global OEM's supply chain and engineering network will find unique value here.

Strategic Impact

Boeing India's BUILD program is significant because it opens a channel between Indian deep-tech startups and one of the world's largest aerospace companies. For a startup working on aerospace components or sustainable aviation technology, a relationship with Boeing — even at the pilot stage — is a powerful validation signal and potential commercial pathway that few other programs can offer.