Supporting Product Connectivity for Startups

​(News Portal – Dong Nai) - Dong Nai's innovative startup ecosystem is currently considered to have significant growth potential. Therefore, this ecosystem needs to be prioritized with the aim of increasing both the quantity and quality of startups, while improving the business environment and contributing to building a new business community. 

Mr. Nguyen Van Khoe, Director of Solar Thermal Technology JSC (far right), introduces the Mosla mosquito trap device, aiming to secure resources for mass production.

One of the key solutions being emphasized is connecting startups, building a startup community, and leveraging mutual advantages for collective growth.

Solutions to Promote Entrepreneurship
Dong Nai boasts a robust economy, with tens of thousands of businesses in operation, and is located in the southern key economic region, offering favorable conditions for starting businesses and fostering an entrepreneurial spirit among the population. However, despite the potential for business creation and innovative startups, the connection of projects into a comprehensive startup ecosystem and community has yet to meet expectations.

According to Mr. Ly Dinh Quan, Vice Chairman of the National Advisory Council for Innovative Startups and General Director of the Song Han Incubator (Da Nang), experience shows that Dong Nai should promote inter-regional cooperation and establish connections with research institutes, universities, and other supporting organizations in neighboring areas. This approach would bolster development in priority sectors such as industry, high-tech agriculture, and eco-tourism. Additionally, collaboration with local and regional support organizations, particularly in Ho Chi Minh City, is essential to create a mentor network, provide funding assistance, and connect startups to markets, thereby enhancing local entrepreneurial ventures.

Mr. Lai The Thong, Director of the Department of Science and Technology, shared that the department is working to connect the components of the local startup ecosystem. In addition to hosting startup competitions to identify promising projects and ideas for nurturing, the department is also fostering connections with national startup support entities and major centers in provinces and cities with extensive experience. These efforts aim to help Dong Nai identify new directions and solutions in the near future.

Developing Effective Models

In recent years, Dong Nai has witnessed several startup projects gaining recognition through programs and competitions, while also benefiting from various support initiatives. Some startups have successfully connected with major investment funds and secured capital.

For instance, Ha Vy Facility in Vinh Cuu District won first prize at the Dong Nai 2024 Innovative Startup Competition with its project on farming, producing, and marketing products made from crocodile skin.

Previously, Dong Nai has seen startups secure billions of dong in funding through programs such as Shark Tank Vietnam. Recently, during a funding program for local startups, Tran Thi Tham's high-tech agricultural project on developing cordyceps mushroom farming rooms in Trang Bom District received a commitment of 1 billion VND in investment.​

Mobilizing resources to support startups requires the collaboration of businesses and social organizations. The Long Thanh Innovation and Startup Center (Long Thanh iCenter), under Long Thanh Innovation and Startup Center JSC, was established to connect startups within the province. This center was officially launched during the Technology and Product Connection Program for Innovative Startups based on scientific research results, organized by the Department of Science and Technology on October 29. Long Thanh iCenter has signed a cooperation agreement with the project that won the Dong Nai 2024 Innovative Startup Competition. Through this partnership, the project will have opportunities to connect with businesses and investment funds in the region, attract investments, enhance capacity, and work toward sustainable development. ​