About BUILD
The Boeing University Innovation Leadership Development (BUILD) Program is Boeing’s flagship annual initiative for aerospace innovation, leadership, and talent development. For its inaugural edition, Boeing will partner with the National University of Singapore (NUS) Enterprise, to provide a platform for Singapore’s startup ecosystem to foster innovation in the aerospace industry. BUILD is designed for university graduates and early-stage startup entrepreneurs across Southeast Asia.
BUILD 2026 Focus Areas
Do you have a novel solution that could shape the future of aerospace and aviation?
We continuously scout for game‑changing startups that not only solve challenges but also set new growth trends in the industry.
- Advanced TechnologyAI/Machine Learning, Cabin and Cargo, Digital Aviation Solution, Future of ground operations
- SustainabilitySustainable & Advance Materials, Energy Optimisation, Circularity and Waste Management, Future Mobility and Clean technology
- Social & Cultural ImpactSTEM education, Safety & Quality, Change Management, Community Engagement, Aerospace/Aviation Ecosystem
Prize
The top three winners will each receive USD 10,000 in funding and three months of incubation support at NUS Enterprise to help take their ideas to flight.
How can I apply?
To be eligible, you can form a team of up to 3 members (recommended), and qualify under any of these categories:
Students: If you have graduated or will graduate from NUS between 2024 to 2027, with a bachelor’s or master’s degree, or if you are enrolled in a PhD program or are a postdoctoral researcher, you are eligible to apply. Applications from professors and faculty from NUS are also welcome.
Entrepreneurs: If your startup is in an ideation stage, with a proof of concept, but without funding or an associated product and customers. (You must be an NUS students, faculty, alumni or any have an affiliation with NUS) The inaugural BUILD 2026 is limited to NUS affiliated students and entrepreneurs.
Selected finalists will participate in an entrepreneurship bootcamp run by NUS Enterprise and receive mentorship from subject-matter and industry experts, including Boeing leadership team and domain specialists, to gain industry insights. The selected teams will also get access to Boeing’s support and opportunities to refine and pitch their final propositions to Boeing and its connected ecosystem of investors, incubators, and entrepreneurs.
Key Dates
Application Deadline: 20 March 2026
Announcement Finalists: Mid-April 2026
Bootcamp: 11 – 15 May 2026
Demo Day: 20 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
I don’t know if my idea fit into one of the BUILD themes. Should we still apply?
Yes! We encourage you to apply. Applying is simple and we are looking for teams that are passionate about solving real –life problem that are related to one of our themes. Include links to videos or demo websites
What should I have in my application?
You should include in your application what is the problem you are trying to solve and why your team wants to solve it.
Here are some tips to make your application stand out:
Respect the word limit for the application
Be clear and concise
Explain the problem you’re working on and what needs to be done to solve it
What motivates you/ your team to solve the problem
How much commitment is required?
If selected, teams will go through a bootcamp. Teams will be guided by leading professors and meet with our leadership team. The boot camp is planned for 5 days. You are expected to attend the full duration of the boot camp in person. At the end, there will be a demonstration day where your team will be invited to deliver a pitch to a panel of judges.
Will I get a chance to work at Boeing?
No. BUILD is not associated with recruitment at Boeing. For applicants interested in a career at Boeing, you may refer to their careers page.
For enquiries, please write to: yeojt@nus.edu.sg
FAQs
I don’t know if my idea fit into one of the BUILD themes. Should we still apply?
Yes! We encourage you to apply. Applying is simple and we are looking for teams that are passionate about solving real –life problem that are related to one of our themes. Include links to videos or demo websites
What should I have in my application?
You should include in your application what is the problem you are trying to solve and why your team wants to solve it.
Here are some tips to make your application stand out:
Respect the word limit for the application
Be clear and concise
Explain the problem you’re working on and what needs to be done to solve it
What motivates you/ your team to solve the problem
How much commitment is required?
If selected, teams will go through a bootcamp. Teams will be guided by leading professors and meet with our leadership team. The boot camp is planned for 5 days. You are expected to attend the full duration of the boot camp in person. At the end, there will be a demonstration day where your team will be invited to deliver a pitch to a panel of judges.
Will I get a chance to work at Boeing?
No. BUILD is not associated with recruitment at Boeing. For applicants interested in a career at Boeing, you may refer to our careers page.
More information: https://tinyurl.com/BoeingBUILD2026