The GO GLOBAL PROGRAM—co-hosted by the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Science and Technology and InnoLab Asia —has positioned itself as more than a funding or acceleration initiative. It is a structured support system that addresses a common, costly challenge faced by many Vietnamese founders: misdirected efforts in unfamiliar markets.
As the application window for the GO GLOBAL PROGRAM will close on May 25, 2025, startups across Vietnam are taking a critical step toward international expansion. Yet while many are eager to move fast, the most successful ventures are those that move with purpose.
The GO GLOBAL PROGRAM is built to change that trajectory
Rather than encouraging experimentation, it provides a guided, evidence-based entry into Australia, backed by local expertise, real-world insights, and curated resources.
“Startups don’t fail because they move too slowly. They fail because they move in the wrong direction.”
— GO GLOBAL Mentor Panel
A Targeted Approach for High-Impact Industries
Australia’s innovation economy continues to open promising pathways for Vietnamese startups—especially in sectors where demand meets innovation:
- EdTech: Over 700 companies are transforming education with a combined annual revenue exceeding AUD 3.6 billion.
- HealthTech: With digital healthcare solutions in high demand, Australia boasts one of the most advanced healthcare systems, rapidly evolving with over 16 publicly listed health companies and valuations exceeding USD 1 billion.
- FinTech: Backed by a stable financial environment, the Australian FinTech sector is valued at AUD 1 billion, offering Vietnamese startups regional scalability and investor interest.
However, entering these markets demands more than just great technology. It requires strategic alignment with regulatory expectations, consumer behavior, and business culture.
Learning from Success — and Misconceptions
Throughout the program, GO GLOBAL advisors have worked to dispel common myths that often undermine otherwise capable founders:
- Myth: “Good products will sell themselves.”
Reality: Australia’s market demands more than innovation—it requires strategic adaptation to consumer behavior, cultural nuances, and legal frameworks. - Myth: “It’s easy to migrate if you run a startup there.”
Reality: The migration process involves certified qualifications, English proficiency, background checks, and compliance with strict visa requirements. It’s a legal journey—not an automatic privilege. - Myth: “Investors in Australia are easy to impress.”
Reality: Aussie investors prioritize long-term business value, data-backed scalability, and founder credibility. Charm alone won’t secure funding. - Myth: “There’s a labor shortage, so hiring must be easy.”
Reality: Despite demand, sectors like FinTech, Logistics, and EdTech experience high burnout. Without a strong local HR strategy, talent acquisition and retention remain challenging. - Myth: “Hard work alone is enough.”
Reality: Hustle matters, but it must be backed by market intelligence, regulatory readiness, and cross-border business acumen. That’s what the GO GLOBAL Program is designed to equip you with.
By addressing these misconceptions head-on, the GO GLOBAL PROGRAM empowers founders to develop not just confidence—but competence.
What Will You Gain?
The GO GLOBAL PROGRAM is an incubation initiative—it is a strategic ecosystem designed to ensure your business thrives on the global stage. Participating startups will benefit from:
- Total Prize: 300 million VND awarded to TOP 10
- Exclusive Access to insights into the Australian market.
- Showcase Opportunity: Participating in the Startup Showcase at VIS 2025.
- Increased global visibility and validation from key stakeholders in the Australian innovation space
- Comprehensive market-specific training curated by experts with deep knowledge of Australia’s business landscape
- Mentorship and networking opportunities with experienced entrepreneurs, investors, and business partners
- Practical guidance on international expansion, compliance, and funding strategies
How to Join the Program
Apply now: http://bit.ly/4c5MyEl
Application Deadline: May 25, 2025
