ITB Rector Prof. Dr. Ir. Tatacipta Dirgantara, M.T., stated that the BUILD program represents a synergy between higher education institutions and global industries in developing a sustainable innovation ecosystem. Through the program, students, young alumni, and start-ups will receive direct mentoring from Boeing to develop their ideas and innovations until they are ready for implementation.

“Many aspiring technology entrepreneurs have not yet been directly connected with major industries. Through BUILD, Boeing serves as an anchor by providing mentors and developing an ecosystem, thereby increasing the likelihood that innovations will successfully progress to the downstream implementation stage,” he said.

He also emphasized the importance of cross-sector collaboration in promoting the growth of high-value-added industries in Indonesia, particularly in aerospace, which encompasses a broad spectrum of technologies, ranging from electronic systems and materials to sustainable fuels and passenger comfort.

Director General of Research and Development at the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology, Dr. M. Fauzan Adziman, S.T., M.Eng., described the collaboration as an ideal model that directly connects industry needs with higher education. According to him, this approach enables the development of more relevant research while improving graduates’ readiness to enter the workforce.

“Aerospace is at the root of many technological innovations. Collaborations such as this not only strengthen research but also create opportunities for the establishment of start-ups and new industrial ecosystems with far-reaching impacts,” he said.

He added that the BUILD program would also encourage the integration of activities such as internships, research based on industry needs, and the development of advanced materials, including the potential use of national resources such as nickel for advanced technologies.

Managing Director of Boeing Indonesia Indra Duivenvoorde said BUILD was designed as an experiential learning program that connects participants with Boeing experts, industry mentors, and ITB’s innovation ecosystem. The program will run until September 2026 and include workshops, mentoring sessions, boot camps, and idea incubation.

“This program focuses on developing solutions in the aerospace and defense sectors, including technologies related to sustainability and social impact. Beyond technical skills, BUILD aims to develop leadership, confidence, and the ability to collaborate across sectors,” he said.

As part of the program, participants will develop ideas based on actual industry needs, which will subsequently be tested and refined. The three best teams will receive a combined total of USD 12,500 in funding, as well as six months of development support at ITB.

The launch of BUILD Indonesia 2026 reaffirms the shared commitment to developing the next generation of innovators and strengthening Indonesia’s position within the global aerospace ecosystem. The collaboration is expected to extend beyond the university environment and foster innovations and start-ups capable of delivering tangible impacts for society and Indonesia’s national industries.