FedEx launches ALFA Centre at IIT Bombay

FedEx Express and the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay have formally launched the FedEx Centre for Advanced Logistics and Focused Innovation (FedEx ALFA) to conduct research in logistics and supply chain innovation with a focus on AI, air cargo efficiency, cold-chain monitoring, digital twins, and even cognitive wellness. The launch was attended by Kami Viswanathan, President – MEISA, FedEx.

The centre was inaugurated by IIT Bombay alumnus and FedEx CEO Rajesh Subramaniam in December 2023 and is supported by a USD 10 million corporate social responsibility grant from FedEx to IIT Bombay and IIT Madras.

The Centre aims to conduct research in the domains of logistics and supply chains, training students in these domains, addressing challenges faced by these industries, and incubating novel ideas.

Located at the IIT Bombay campus, the ALFA Centre aims to enhance operational efficiency in logistics using quantitative models, network planning tools and digital technologies. The partnership will also support the development of a talent pipeline and foster startup growth through fellowships and incubation.

The collaboration has already supported over 160 students through mentorship and microgrants, with more than 20 postgraduate fellowships awarded through the IDEAS programme.

Alongside the research centre, FedEx also opened the FedEx Lounge within the Project Evergreen complex at IIT Bombay. The lounge offers students a space to relax, collaborate and exchange ideas informally.

The initiative is part of a broader plan to establish a Centre of Excellence across IIT Bombay and IIT Madras that will support advanced logistics R&D, academic programmes and entrepreneurship in India.