The National Innovation Center (NIC) under the Ministry of Planning and Investment has officially rolled out the Vietnam Innovation Network Platform, a groundbreaking "knowledge platform" designed to connect leading experts with startups and enterprises, fostering their collaboration and creativity. 

The announcement was made today [September 9] at a press conference to celebrate the 5th anniversary of the NIC and the upcoming Innovate Vietnam 2024.

At the press conference. Photo: Thanh Thanh/The Hanoi Times

Vu Quoc Huy, Director of the NIC, described the platform as a vital bridge that allows Vietnamese talents from around the world to engage, generate fresh ideas, and transform these concepts into high-quality products and services that will drive the country's economic growth.

In her remarks, Deputy Minister of Planning and Investment Nguyen Thi Bich Ngoc emphasized the essential role of innovation in driving scientific and technological progress.

In its five-year journey, NIC has developed policies to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), built a robust infrastructure for various initiatives, created incentives for innovation, and cultivated a vibrant innovation ecosystem in Vietnam with the active participation of all stakeholders. It has also played a critical role in helping businesses access critical resources and develop high-quality human resources.

"The establishment of NIC underscores the Government's strong commitment to positioning innovation as a key driver of Vietnam's growth in the new era," said Deputy Minister Nguyen Thi Bich Ngoc.

Reflecting on the attractiveness of Vietnam's business landscape for local enterprises and foreign direct investment (FDI) in innovation, she noted that the current environment is both dynamic and competitive. Innovation is therefore also a golden opportunity to shape the future prosperity of businesses.

To ensure that businesses can quickly adapt to emerging trends, the government will provide a comprehensive framework and legal structure that encourages innovative endeavors. 

Public authorities should provide essential infrastructure, information, and support systems to facilitate access to innovation. Vigilant monitoring and evaluation are also crucial, recognizing positive contributions while addressing any violations of innovative practices, she said.

Innovate Vietnam 2024: a celebration of progress

Deputy Minister of Planning and Investment Nguyen Thi Bich Ngoc speaks at the event. Photo: NIC

At the event, the Director of NIC said that to celebrate its 5th anniversary, NIC will host Innovate Vietnam 2024, a dynamic gathering that will reflect on five years of growth and innovation under the inspiring theme "Aspiration - Pioneering - Breakthrough". 

The event, scheduled for October 1-2 at Hoa Lac Hi-tech Park, is expected to attract around 20,000 enthusiastic attendees.

The exciting occasion marks a milestone for NIC and reinforces its key role in cultivating the national innovation ecosystem. The day aims to promote business cooperation and investment opportunities, particularly in the science, technology, and innovation sectors, which are key to Vietnam's future.

The event also aims to ignite passion within the local community and engage international partners, demonstrating the government's unwavering commitment to fostering innovation. It highlights Vietnam's immense potential and advantages as an emerging regional innovation hub.

The event promises an impressive line-up of government leaders, representatives from central and local ministries, international organizations, and technology giants from Vietnam and abroad. A highlight will be the appearance of Meta's Chairman, who will announce the company's long-term commitment to the Vietnamese market.

NIC's Vu Quoc Huy said attendees can look forward to an engaging showcase of technology and innovation, with 100 exhibition booths offering hands-on experiences.

On October 1, a compelling seminar titled "Business and Youth in the Age of AI and Semiconductors: Opportunities and Challenges," will be held, featuring insights from Nick Clegg, Chairman of Global Affairs at Meta, and executives from Qualcomm and NVIDIA.

At Innovate Vietnam 2024, a special ceremony will be held to honor outstanding individuals and organizations who have made significant contributions to the innovation ecosystem, including awards for the prestigious Vietnam Innovation Challenge 2024.