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NIC Scale X is part of the “Vitalizing the Viet Nam National Innovation Center” project, funded by the Government of Japan and co-managed by UNDP and NIC, with Mitsubishi Research Institute (MRI) and Plug and Play as implementing partners. Anchored at NIC Hoa Lac, the programme connects startups with investors, corporate partners, academia, and policymakers to unlock scale, market access, and cross-border collaboration between Viet Nam and Japan.
NIC Scale X
AN INITIATIVE OF:
IMPLEMENTING PARTNERS:
Program Objectives
Ecosystem Building
Create a vibrant community for knowledge exchange and partnerships among startups, investors, experts, and government bodies.
Investment Readiness
Empower startups with intensive mentorship and resources to refine business models and attract venture capital.
Impact Creation
Cultivate startups that address Vietnam’s national challenges in high-tech and strategic industries, prioritizing sustainable development goals (SDGs).
Focus Areas
Program Benefits
Business Support & Facilities
Access to office space, co-working, and R&D facilities at the Innovation Hub, plus strategic consulting from MRI for product development.
Global Immersion Tours
Fully funded business trips to Singapore or Japan to explore new markets and forge international partnerships.
Mentoring & Fundraising
Personalized coaching from industry experts and direct VC connections via Plug and Play’s global network.
Service Perks
Access to exclusive credits and tools (e.g., Google Cloud, Microsoft for Startups) via Plug and Play’s IT Perks program.
Government Backed Advantage
Access to NIC Hoa Lac
Work from Vietnam’s national innovation hub and plug into a growing ecosystem of startups, corporates, and research institutions.
1
Regulatory Support
Get guidance on Vietnam’s legal and regulatory landscape to accelerate your go-to-market.
2
Institutional Credibility
Build trust with investors and enterprise partners through a government-backed program.
3
Bilateral Market Access
Unlock cross-border opportunities across Vietnam and Japan.
4
Commercial Engagements
Explore pilot projects and partnerships with NIC’s corporate network.
5
Program Timeline
Week
1 – 3
Foundation
Intensive workshops on Vietnam’s business landscape, incorporation/taxation, talent acquisition, fundraising, IP law, and growth hacking.
Week
4 – 8
Connections
Focus on 1:1 business matching, mentor sessions, and investor speed dating.
Week
9 – 12
Refinement & Exit
Mock pitching, Demo Day preparation, and official exit interviews.
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