Japan provides 51 billion VND to promote innovation in Vietnam

On February 27 in Hanoi, the Embassy of Japan in Vietnam and the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) signed an Exchange Agreement to launch the initiative “Enhancing the capacity to support innovation of the National Innovation Center”. The project has a total investment of VND51 billion, which is a non-refundable ODA capital aided by the Japanese Government.

The signing ceremony was attended by Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to Vietnam Ito Naoki; Ms. Ramla Khalidi, Chief Representative of UNDP in Vietnam and Mr. Vu Quoc Huy, Director of the National Innovation Center (NIC).

Signing ceremony of the Exchange Agreement to launch the initiative to Enhance Innovation Support Capacity of the National Innovation Center. (Photo: Embassy of Japan in Vietnam)

The project will be implemented over 18 months, focusing on three main objectives:

Firstly, create a favorable investment environment: Support the establishment of the Vietnam Innovation Fund (VIF) under NIC, build a solid operating model according to international models, including clear progress measurement indicators.

Second, strengthening the national innovation ecosystem: Through enhancing cooperation and connectivity between government agencies, academia, research institutes and businesses through strategic partnerships and international cooperation.

Third, enhance innovation skills and capacity: Implement specialized training programs on innovation management and design thinking, in partnership with leading organizations, to equip businesses, innovation centers and government officials with the necessary tools to promote innovation.

This initiative aims to support Vietnam in achieving its goal of becoming a developed country by 2045, while contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially SDG 8 - Decent Work and Economic Growth; SDG 9 - Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure; and SDG 12 - Responsible Production and Consumption.

The project also focuses on empowering women in innovation, with the goal of engaging at least 30% of women-led startups in key initiatives, integrating diverse perspectives into the innovation process.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Ambassador Ito Naoki said: "Japan identifies digital transformation and innovation as one of the key areas of cooperation, which means we will focus on cooperation with NIC - an iconic organization promoting this process."

UNDP Representative in Vietnam Ramla Khalidi said the project is being implemented at the right time when Vietnam is prioritizing investment and breakthroughs in science, technology and innovation to promote high and sustainable growth. By expanding access to capital, improving skills and promoting cooperation, the project will help maximize the potential of startups in Vietnam.

Mr. Vu Quoc Huy, Director of NIC, commented that the project marks an important step forward in the long-term cooperation between Japanese partners, UNDP and NIC. The results of the project meet the requirements of NIC in 2025 and 2026, especially the completion of the National Innovation Fund model and the establishment of a co-working space at NIC Hoa Lac, with the vision of making NIC Hoa Lac a destination for national and regional innovation.

Source: https://thoidai.com.vn/nhat-ban-tai-tro-51-ty-dong-thuc-day-doi-moi-sang-tao-tai-viet-nam-210520.html