Five Vietnamese startups participating in the “Viet Nam – Japan Incubation Program” signed Memoranda of Understanding and contracts with Japanese partners during Demo Day 2026 in Ha Noi. The event was co-hosted by the Viet Nam National Innovation Center (NIC), the Embassy of Japan, and UNDP, marking a milestone in cross-border collaboration. These startups were among 12 that completed a six-month incubation program under the “Vitalizing the Viet Nam National Innovation Center” project, funded by Japan and co-managed by UNDP and NIC with BK Holdings as the implementing partner.
The startups leveraged technologies such as AI, IoT, and advanced manufacturing to address challenges in agriculture, healthcare, logistics, decarbonization, and education. Some focused on integrating Vietnamese products into global supply chains by meeting international standards, while others advanced healthcare solutions, including a mental health platform entering investment due diligence. The program facilitated co-creation between Vietnamese and Japanese enterprises, enabling shared solutions and operational models in environmental and urban infrastructure sectors.
Over the course of the program, startups received more than 60 training sessions and 100 matchmaking opportunities with enterprises, experts, and partners. This support helped them progress from ideation to commercialization and demonstrate their ability to collaborate internationally. Demo Day, held during Viet Nam Science, Technology, and Innovation Day, connected market needs with technological solutions and provided startups access to global networks through open innovation.
Japanese representatives emphasized that the challenges addressed by these startups are shared globally, and partnerships can contribute to social and economic development in both countries. Using the 5Ps framework—People, Purpose, Product, Plan, Progress—the cohort reported significant strides in business model development and market validation, with nearly 20% initiating international partnerships. NIC highlighted that the initiative has already facilitated over 10 investment and commercial partnerships, reflecting adaptability to international standards.
Demo Day featured exhibitions, pitching sessions, and formal MoU exchanges, showcasing the collaborative process between Viet Nam and Japan. NIC continues to serve as a national innovation platform, promoting international cooperation and piloting standardized models for startup support. The event marks the beginning of long-term collaborations, with a field trip to Japan planned for June 2026 to further connect Vietnamese founders with the Japanese ecosystem. The program aims to foster sustainable innovation and strengthen the Viet Nam-Japan Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
