FirstBuild

FirstBuild is a global co-creation community and innovation lab backed by GE Appliances, a Haier company, that focuses on accelerating the development of new hardware products. While primarily known for consumer appliances, the company has established a significant presence in the healthcare sector through a strategic partnership with the Texas Medical Center (TMC) to prototype and manufacture medical devices. Notable healthcare-related projects include the G9 emergency ventilator, UV-C disinfection technology, and open-source personal protective equipment developed during the COVID-19 pandemic. By utilizing a community-driven design model and micro-manufacturing capabilities, FirstBuild bridges the gap between early-stage concepts and commercial-ready medical and consumer products.