The Vietnam Innovation Summit 2024 (VIS 2024) marked a significant milestone in Vietnam’s journey toward becoming a global hub for technological innovation and sustainable development. Held in Ho Chi Minh City, the event gathered over 1,000 global leaders, entrepreneurs, investors, and experts to discuss and shape the future of innovation in Vietnam. Over two days, VIS 2024 fostered cross-border collaboration, highlighted emerging technology trends, and reinforced Vietnam’s position as an innovation-driven economy.
Leadership Insights: Bold Actions and Collaborative Growth
The summit opened with impactful speeches from key leaders, setting the stage for discussions on how Vietnam can accelerate its innovation ecosystem. Mr. Vo Van Hoan, Vice President of the People’s Committee of Ho Chi Minh City, emphasized the city’s leadership in Vietnam’s startup ecosystem, noting that it is home to over 50% of the nation’s startups and 60% of its successful investment deals.
“Our startup ecosystem leads the nation, demonstrating that Ho Chi Minh City is the ideal destination for international investors,” Mr. Hoan affirmed. “This summit is not only a stage for showcasing startups but a crucial gateway for connecting with global markets and capital.”
Mr. Tran Hoang, Editor-in-Chief of Saigon Entrepreneur Magazine, highlighted that technological innovation is essential for businesses to remain competitive. Meanwhile, Mr. Thang Huynh, Chairman of InnoLab Asia, underscored the transformative power of AI, blockchain, and IoT, stating that these technologies are not merely tools but catalysts for solving global challenges and unlocking unprecedented opportunities for Vietnamese startups.
Key Discussions: Digitalization and Future-Ready Industries
With over 20 panel discussions and case studies, VIS 2024 provided in-depth insights into technological breakthroughs and economic transformation. Notable sessions included:
- “Factory of the Future: Pressure of Change or Being Left Behind” – Experts discussed the integration of automation and Industry 4.0 into Vietnam’s manufacturing sector to enhance productivity and global competitiveness.
- “Innovation and International Technology Transfer” – This panel focused on strengthening global collaborations to accelerate the adoption of AI, IoT, and blockchain across industries such as healthcare, logistics, and energy.
- “The Changing Landscape of Education” – Leaders from the education sector addressed the importance of aligning curricula with industry demands, particularly in AI, digital transformation, and sustainability.
- “Generative AI Adoption in Vietnam” – Real-world case studies showcased how businesses are leveraging AI-driven innovations to improve efficiency and competitiveness.
Empowering Startups and Strengthening the Ecosystem
A highlight of Vietnam Innovation Summit 2024 was the Startup Showcase, featuring 16 emerging startups specializing in fintech, AI, renewable energy, and smart supply chains. The event facilitated over 400 business matchmaking sessions, allowing startups to connect with global investors and industry leaders.
Government policies under Resolution 98, including non-refundable grants and tax incentives, were also discussed as key drivers for fostering Vietnam’s startup ecosystem. By creating a supportive regulatory environment, Ho Chi Minh City aims to attract foreign investment and empower local entrepreneurs to thrive in the global market.
Government policies under Resolution 98, including non-refundable grants and tax incentives, were also discussed as key drivers for fostering Vietnam’s startup ecosystem.
To explore how government policies are driving corporate innovation strategies, check out: Driving Innovation: Government Policies Shaping Corporate’s Innovation Strategies at Vietnam Innovation Summit.
Vietnam as a Regional Leader in Innovation
The summit went beyond discussions; it catalyzed global collaboration and strategic partnerships. The launch of SIHUB (Startup and Innovation Hub) in Ho Chi Minh City, modeled after the Sydney Startup Hub, demonstrated Vietnam’s commitment to building a world-class innovation ecosystem. SIHUB, set to open in 2025, will focus on fostering startups in key sectors such as fintech, MedTech, digital transformation, and green technology.
Through initiatives like SIHUB and events such as Week for Ho Chi Minh City Innovation, Startup, and Entrepreneurship (WHISE), Vietnam is strengthening its reputation as a technology and innovation hub in Southeast Asia.
A Bold Vision for the Future
Vietnam Innovation Summit 2024 concluded with a strong message: innovation is the foundation for sustainable growth and global competitiveness. By embracing technological advancements, fostering a thriving startup ecosystem, and prioritizing sustainable transformation, Vietnam is poised to lead Southeast Asia’s digital and economic transformation.
With increasing investment, cutting-edge research, and a commitment to digitalization, Vietnam is well-positioned to shape the future of global innovation. The summit reaffirmed that Vietnam is ready to lead—inviting businesses, investors, and innovators to join in building a future of creativity, sustainability, and collaboration.
