IDAP

For many years, discussions about digital transformation have focused mainly on productivity, efficiency, and economic growth. Yet, through the practical journey of the IDAP – Inclusive Digital Adoption Project, KisStartup has discovered a deeper dimension: digital transformation not only reshapes economies but also preserves and enriches culture – the very soul of communities.

In the highland villages of Lào Cai and Sơn La, technology has not arrived as a foreign wave but has gradually become a bridge that brings local identity to the world. It helps revive cultural heritage in new forms — digitized, shared, and passed on to younger generations.

When Technology Becomes the Storyteller of Identity

Through IDAP’s training programs, many artisans, teachers, and ethnic minority youth have learned how to record, store, and present their cultural heritage using digital tools. Small classes on video production, product photography, and content design have become creative spaces where locals learn to “tell their cultural stories” in their own voice.

In Sơn La, lecturer Lò Thị Ngọc Diệp and her students at Tây Bắc University have worked together to digitize Thai cultural traditions — from performances to instructional videos shared on social media.

Such efforts are turning YouTube into an open classroom where cultural values transform into creative products and services — music classes, cultural tours, ethnic embroidery workshops, and traditional handicraft lessons.

In Lào Cai, Dr. Đặng Thị Oanh and her team of lecturers and students are documenting and promoting the spiritual traditions of the Dao people. Meanwhile, Ms. Vàng Thị Mai has been collecting ancient then songs of the Tày in Bản Liền, inspiring others to join her efforts. Her small class has evolved into a community-run hub, where locals teach, learn, and share their traditions online through YouTube and Facebook.

Digital Technology – The Companion of Heritage

Around the world, technology has become humanity’s extended memory, helping to preserve and revive what once seemed lost.

In Guatemala, Duolingo added the K’iche’ language of the Maya people, reviving a tongue once on the brink of extinction. In Bolivia, the OEI App preserves five indigenous languages with pronunciation guides and e-dictionaries, allowing mountain children to reconnect with their mother tongues.

In Australia, Canada, and New Zealand, technologies such as VR360, 3D scanning, and virtual reality are used to recreate festivals, stilt houses, pottery, and ancient dances — allowing global audiences to walk through indigenous spaces from across the world.

Some projects even experiment with blockchain to protect community intellectual property — from textile patterns and indigo-dyeing recipes to traditional medicines — ensuring that traditional knowledge is shared fairly and safeguarded from commercial exploitation.

Emerging technologies like AI, virtual reality, cloud storage, digital linguistics, and blockchain are helping cultural heritage to live again in interactive, accessible forms. Yet, these tools only gain true meaning when local communities themselves are the storytellers.

Lessons from IDAP: When Communities Lead the Digital Journey

Experiences from Lào Cai and Sơn La show that when digital transformation begins with culture, it creates stronger and more lasting connections than any technical project could.

In Bản Liền, the Tày community not only digitized the production process of ancient tea but also used short videos to tell its history — sharing traditions of leaf-picking, tea-making, and festive tea ceremonies. Their fanpage “Hương Trà Bản Liền” (The Fragrance of Bản Liền Tea) has become more than an online shop — it’s a living cultural classroom.

In Bản Lùn, the Thai community organized folk song classes with livestreams, where children learned to sing, film, and edit videos, adding captions and descriptions. The entire village joined in — each person playing a role — creating a community-built digital archive of ethnic music.

IDAP calls this approach “community-led digital transformation” — where technology is localized and owned by the people, not imposed from outside. This allows culture to evolve naturally, while also generating new economic value without losing authenticity.

Preserve to Develop – Develop to Spread

Technology can preserve, but its ultimate purpose is to bring culture back into modern life.

Music lessons, cultural tours, storytelling videos, and handcrafted souvenirs are ways of transforming heritage into tangible value. Each song, dance, and weaving pattern no longer sits behind glass or in research books but is digitized, shared, and becomes a source of inspiration for new generations.

When a student in Sơn La can teach the tính lute on TikTok, or an artisan in Bản Khảo hosts an online indigo-dyeing class, culture has truly entered the digital age — in the most human, patient, and creative Vietnamese way.                            

Challenges and Vision

Digital transformation in culture poses significant challenges: balancing preservation with commercialization, openness with protection of traditional knowledge. Without proper guidance, technology can distort or exploit heritage. Therefore, the core principle must be that ownership of knowledge and content belongs to the indigenous community.

KisStartup and IDAP’s partners aim for a model of sustainable cultural development, where technology plays a supportive role — helping communities to tell their own stories, share them widely, and create their own value.

The Road Ahead

From small filming classes in Sơn La to cultural tourism products in Lào Cai, digital transformation is rekindling the creative flame within each community.

When technology becomes a tool of culture, not its replacement, we can envision a future where national identity does not fade — but finds new life in the digital world.

“Digital transformation does not blur tradition – it gives tradition a new voice.”

And it is the young people, artisans, teachers, and small enterprises in the mountains — together with KisStartup — who are writing this next chapter: making culture more vibrant, more widespread, and more valuable in the digital era.

© Copyright KisStartup. Content developed under the IDAP Project – Inclusive Digital Adoption Program. Any reproduction, quotation, or reuse must cite KisStartup/IDAP as the source.

In many years of working with Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), scientists, technology startups, and international organizations, KisStartup has observed a paradox: the resources for innovation are abundant yet fragmented and disconnected. On one side, scientists and tech startups possess many research results with great potential, but they struggle to find market opportunities, lack a real-world testing environment, and often face commercialization barriers. On the other side, SMEs and cooperatives—which account for an overwhelming proportion of Vietnam's economy—lack the capital, human resources, equipment, and knowledge to invest in internal R&D. Yet, they have an urgent need: to innovate technology to enhance product value and meet the increasingly stringent market demands for quality, traceability, and green standards.

An Ecosystem-based Approach from Observation

KisStartup does not pursue a single-track approach but builds an ecosystem approach, where each program serves as a "piece" to complement and test various ideas.

• From LIF Global: KisStartup partnered with the Royal Academy of Engineering (UK) to support scientists in commercializing their research findings. Through this, KisStartup clearly saw the gap between the laboratory and the market—and realized that many technologies could solve very specific problems for SMEs if a reliable bridge existed.
• From IDAP (Inclusive Digital Acceleration Program): KisStartup implemented digital and green transformation models for SMEs in Lào Cai and Sơn La. It was through these field trials that KisStartup recognized the value of treating SMEs not just as "technology recipients," but as co-creation partners—involved from the testing, feedback, and adjustment phases.

These observations led to a crucial realization: for technology to truly have an impact, an intermediary mechanism is needed to help SMEs access technology in a flexible, low-cost manner, while simultaneously helping scientists and startups find a testing ground and initial market. This is the premise for the R&D outsourcing model.

KisStartup's Commercialization Services and Ecosystem

Based on this practical experience, KisStartup designed and operates the R&D outsourcing service as a "technology commercialization hub." SMEs do not have to invest in a complete internal R&D apparatus; they only need to describe their innovation needs, or the problems they face in production or the market. KisStartup then connects them with suitable scientists, tech startups, and technical experts, while ensuring a safe and reliable testing environment.

The distinctive point of KisStartup's approach is the emphasis on trust. In the Vietnamese context, where technology transfer often faces skepticism between parties, KisStartup builds trust through transparent mechanisms, accompanying training, product inspection, and initial commercialization support. As a result, SMEs trust that they are not "buying risk," and scientists/startups trust that their technology will not be wasted.

The practical implementation within IDAP clearly illustrates this: from plum-drying technology that prevents farmers from price drops, tea made from discarded old bamboo leaves, to organic washing liquid from surplus fruit. All demonstrate that with a "reliable bridge," small technological ideas can become products that truly create economic and environmental impact.

Why R&D Outsourcing Suits Vietnamese SMEs

In the global SME landscape, R&D outsourcing has been proven to bring numerous benefits: cost savings, shorter time-to-market, expansion of technological capabilities, and risk reduction (ReAnIn, 2024; Cognitive Market Research, 2023). Research in Europe shows that outsourcing SMEs generate 28% more new product ideas compared to firms relying solely on internal R&D (Un, 2018). A survey in Slovenia recorded that 32% of SMEs adopt R&D outsourcing, mainly at the applied research stage to quickly bring products to market (Hojnik & Rebernik, 2012). These figures reflect a global trend—SMEs do not need to own the entire research capability but can still innovate by leveraging networks of experts and intermediary organizations.

Specific Benefits	Percentage of Benefiting SME
Cost Saving	68%
Shorter Time-to-Market	44%
Flexible Scaling	53%
Access to Technology/Experts	74%
Risk Sharing	37%
Increased New Ideas	+28%

For Vietnam, this is even more significant as the majority of small and medium enterprises operate in agriculture, processing, and handicraft—sectors with many by-products, technical bottlenecks, but also great opportunities to apply low-cost, simple-process technologies to increase value. By playing an intermediary role, KisStartup both fully exploits the technology of scientists and startups and turns the innovation needs of SMEs into a driving force for commercialization.

KisStartup's ecosystem approach—connecting observations from LIF, piloting through IDAP, and scaling into the R&D outsourcing model—shows a viable way to promote innovation in Vietnam. SMEs benefit because they are no longer excluded from the technology game due to resource constraints; scientists and startups gain confidence and a real-world market; and local communities gain greener, more sustainable products. This model not only facilitates faster, less risky commercialization but also gradually forms a reliable innovation environment where knowledge, technology, and the market meet for the development of greener, more efficient businesses.

© Copyright belongs to KisStartup. The content was developed within the framework of the IDAP project – Inclusive Digital Acceleration Program. Any form of copying, citation, or reuse must credit KisStartup/IDAP.

References:

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After one year of implementing the IDAP project at the Thai Nguyen University Branch in Lào Cai, the initial changes have revealed a highly promising pilot model: students are directly placed in businesses, assisting with small but essential tasks such as raising awareness of digital tools, guiding software usage, and collecting basic data. Through this process, both enterprises and students grow together — businesses gradually overcome their fear of technology, while students gain valuable hands-on experience in the local business environment.

A standout feature of this model is the transformation within the university itself. With guidance from IDAP, the Lào Cai branch has developed a Bachelor’s Program in Digital Economics, set to begin enrollment in 2025. At the same time, digital transformation content will be integrated across all subjects — from management and finance to marketing — creating a comprehensive approach rather than limiting it to a few standalone courses. This demonstrates that the university is not merely reacting to trends, but truly internalizing digital transformation as a foundational competency for all disciplines.

Three key lessons emerge after a year of implementation.
First, starting small is the right approach for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in mountainous regions. When a student helps a household business adopt a sales management app or learn how to store customer data, that is the first brick in a long-term digital journey.
Second, linking education with practice creates a double impact: students learn from real-world experiences, and businesses benefit from youthful digital talent.
Third, change comes from a collaborative system — with IDAP as the coordinator, universities innovating their curricula, students participating actively, and businesses embracing the process.

Looking beyond Lào Cai to Sơn La, a similar initiative is emerging: the Sơn La Digital Workforce Platform, initiated by Mr. Nguyễn Tiến Dũng of Tây Bắc University. Its distinctive feature is that the university doesn’t just train and “push” students into the job market — it actively connects them with businesses. Small enterprises, household businesses, and cooperatives can find flexible, tech-savvy digital workers for specific tasks such as managing fan pages, designing visuals, online communication, or managing Google Maps. Students earn extra income, gain real-world experience, and are mentored by lecturers to ensure quality outcomes.

Both models demonstrate the immense potential of Vietnamese universities in supporting local businesses’ digital transformation. The key lies not in large-scale technological solutions, but in how universities design mechanisms that connect students — young digital talents — with enterprises. When these mechanisms evolve into formal training programs, support centers, or digital workforce platforms, the benefits extend beyond students and businesses to help shape a local digital ecosystem.

For other universities seeking direction, the lessons from Lào Cai and Sơn La offer a clear path forward: treat digital transformation not merely as a subject to teach, but as a dynamic process linking the classroom with the community. Each local business becomes a “real-world laboratory”, each student a “small digital transformation agent”, and each university a “knowledge coordination hub”. Achieving this means universities go beyond granting degrees — they help create genuine value for Vietnam’s digital economy.

© Copyright belongs to KisStartup. Content developed under the IDAP Project – Inclusive Digital Acceleration Program. Any reproduction, citation, or reuse must include proper attribution to KisStartup/IDAP.

Digital transformation (DX) has become a matter of survival for Vietnamese enterprises, especially SMEs. However, according to recent surveys, the process faces a series of challenges: high investment costs, lack of digital human resources, limited technological infrastructure, reluctance to change, and the absence of a clear strategy. Only 7.6% of businesses have a well-structured digital transformation plan, while 48.8% have experimented with some solutions but failed to sustain them (Annual Report on Business Digital Transformation, 2022).

In this context, universities – with their combined roles in education, research, and knowledge connection – hold great potential to become strategic partners of enterprises in digital transformation. To support universities wishing to engage more deeply in enterprise digital transformation and to leverage their strengths, KisStartup presents a detailed analysis based on Hồ Tú Bảo’s six-step digital transformation framework. For each stage, corresponding university actions or programs are proposed to highlight their role as knowledge transfer hubs within the digital transformation ecosystem.

1. Awareness and Mindset Change

• Enterprise needs: Most SMEs lack a clear understanding of what digital transformation means or what practical benefits it brings. Many believe it simply means “buying new software.” The biggest barrier lies in management mindset and fear of change. According to a 2025 nationwide survey, 69% of businesses only use email or basic accounting software, without adopting more strategic digital solutions (Ministry of Science and Technology, 2025).
• What universities can do: They can organize awareness workshops, publish research reports on technological trends, or develop Digital Maturity Assessment tools to help SMEs evaluate their readiness. This model is common across Europe and feasible in Vietnam. With academic credibility, universities can better persuade business leaders who often distrust private service providers. International example: European universities have developed Digital Maturity Assessment Tools for SMEs.

2. Defining a Digital Transformation Roadmap

• Enterprise needs: SMEs often lack clear strategies or plans. Many initiatives are abandoned midway, causing waste. According to the Ministry of Planning and Investment (2023–2024), micro and small businesses face particular difficulties due to limited capital, human resources, and technical capability.
• What universities can do: Faculties of economics, IT, or management can develop digital readiness assessment frameworks and offer consulting services to build 6-month to 3-year roadmaps tailored to business size. Final-year students can participate as “junior digital consultants,” gaining practical experience while supporting companies.International example: University of Vaasa (Finland) successfully implemented an ecosystem-based digitalization model for local SMEs, yielding mutual benefits.

3. Building Digital Capabilities

• Enterprise needs: The lack of skilled personnel is the most critical barrier. The Enterprise Development Agency (2023) reported that most SMEs lack adequately trained staff to implement digital solutions effectively. External expert services are often unaffordable.
• What universities can do: Design short-term, hands-on training courses using real company data and workflows—for example, training business owners in basic data analytics, marketing staff in digital campaign management, or accountants in data security. International example: IE University (Spain) and Banco Santander launched the “Digitaliza tu negocio” program, providing digital skills training to over 3,000 SMEs. Vietnamese universities can replicate this through short-term certificate programs and online training for broader reach.

4. Identifying Core Technologies

• Enterprise needs: Amid countless ERP, CRM, AI, and IoT solutions, many SMEs struggle to choose the right technology. Wrong decisions lead to wasted investment. Moreover, their infrastructure is often weak and lacks proper devices, software, or cybersecurity systems.
• What universities can do: IT or engineering schools can establish digital technology laboratories where businesses can test solutions before purchasing. Universities can also host technology showcase events featuring multiple vendors, acting as independent technology advisors. International example: The Hartree Centre (UK) partners with universities to let SMEs experiment with AI and supercomputing before making investment decisions.

5. Implementation and Execution

• Enterprise needs: During implementation, challenges arise not only in technology but also in change management: data cleanup, process adaptation, and employee resistance. SMEs often lack mentors to accompany them through the process.
• What universities can do: Deploy research teams, faculty, and students to accompany companies in pilot phases, acting as “light PMOs.” Universities can also establish co-living collaboration models where both sides share costs and co-develop technology applications. International example: Germany’s Mittelstand 4.0 program has proven effective by organizing workshops and coaching SMEs to apply agile and design thinking methods to reduce implementation risks.

6. Business Model Transformation and Operational Adjustment

• Enterprise needs: After applying technology, SMEs must adjust their business models and operations. This is the hardest step, involving organizational culture and long-term strategy. Most Vietnamese SMEs lack experience in using data-driven insights to adapt their models.
• What universities can do: Conduct local SME case studies, organize peer-learning sessions, and support data analysis on customer feedback to help companies refine products, sales channels, and pricing strategies. International example: Utrecht University (Netherlands) collaborated with consulting firms to digitally transform management and learner experience systems—proving that model transformation must be data-driven.

Surveys in Vietnam show that SMEs face major obstacles: high investment costs, shortage of skilled personnel, reluctance to change, weak infrastructure, and lack of clear strategies. In this context, universities have the potential to become strategic pillars—training digital talent, providing applicable knowledge, connecting businesses with technology, and accompanying them throughout the digital transformation journey.

If leveraged effectively, Vietnamese universities can go beyond teaching students to become digital transformation hubs for SMEs, directly contributing to the sustainable development of the national digital economy.

Summary Table

 

Digital Transformation Step (Hồ Tú Bảo)	Vietnamese SME Needs	What Vietnamese Universities Can Do	International Example
1. Awareness & Mindset	Unclear about DX; 69% using only email/accounting tools	Organize mindset-opening workshops; create readiness assessment tools; publish trend reports	European universities’ Digital Maturity Tools
2. Roadmap Definition	Only 7.6% have formal plans; many abandon efforts	Develop readiness frameworks; offer roadmap consulting; involve student consultants	University of Vaasa (Finland) ecosystem-based model
3. Capability Building	Lack of digital workforce; high training costs	Short-term practical courses; “learn by doing” projects; student-SME support bank	IE University (Spain) & Banco Santander – “Digitaliza tu negocio”
4. Core Technology Selection	Hard to choose solutions; weak infrastructure	Build digital labs; host technology showcases; act as neutral advisors	Hartree Centre (UK) AI & HPC testing
5. Implementation	Lack of mentors; employee resistance; messy data	Faculty-student support teams; co-living collaboration models; mentor programs	Mittelstand 4.0 (Germany) agile workshops
6. Business Model Change	Hard to shift culture; lack of data-driven decisions	Conduct local case studies; analyze customer data; foster innovation networks	Utrecht University (Netherlands) management digitalization

 

© Copyright KisStartup. Developed within the IDAP Project – Strengthening an Inclusive Digital Transformation Ecosystem. Any reproduction, quotation, or reuse must cite the source: KisStartup/IDAP.
Source: https://qnu.edu.vn/vi/hoi-nghi-hoi-thao/bai-noi-chuyen-dai-chung-chuyen-...

In response to the global urgency for sustainable development, the program IDAP – Inclusive Digital Acceleration Program in Lào Cai and Sơn La has evolved beyond its initial mission of promoting digital transformation for small and medium enterprises (SMEs). It is now establishing itself as a testing ground for green transition powered by data and digital technologies. By pioneering the integration of digitalization and greening into one strategic framework – the Twin Transition – IDAP introduces a new pathway for rural development, community innovation, and ecological entrepreneurship.

Twin Transition: Not Just a Pairing, But a Synergistic Development Strategy

The initiative “Twin Transition: Digitalization & Greening” was launched as a strategic response to two rising imperatives: rural digitalization and ecological regeneration. In Phase 1 (2025–2026), KisStartup moved beyond awareness-raising to craft a structured journey: from community education and mindset shift, to the formation of voluntary green groups, from value chain experimentation to early-stage data infrastructure for ecological agriculture. Through mini learning kits, green field tours, and student-supported storytelling, IDAP cultivated a culture of learning, sharing, and doing among rural producers and young learners.

IDAP as an Open Incubator for Impact Technologies

One of IDAP’s distinctive contributions is its role as a community-based impact technology incubator, connecting scientists, SMEs, farmers, and students through a model of outsourced R&D for grassroots deployment. Rather than relying on in-house innovation, SMEs and cooperatives with limited resources were able to test low-cost, high-impact technologies—ranging from compact composting devices, soil sensors, to digital tools for ecological farm management.

Critically, these trials did not take place in labs but in real community settings, creating a virtuous loop of learning–adapting–scaling based on real production needs. The R&D outsourcing model operated by KisStartup provided a rare but vital mechanism to bridge innovation and local adoption, thus accelerating the commercialization of early-stage environmental technologies.

Data for Green Transition – The Foundation of a Digital Ecological Economy

As pilot models gained traction, IDAP entered a new phase focused on datafication and digital enhancement of green practices. By training producers to record inputs, processes, and yields—and digitizing these through open-source tools—IDAP enabled communities to manage resources more efficiently, understand cost-benefit patterns, and build data portfolios that could support market access, funding applications, or environmental certifications.

This effort marks the foundation of an open library of replicable twin transition models – grounded in both narrative and numbers – which can be adapted across provinces. Such data-driven practices also unlock access to green finance, transparency in supply chains, and alignment with global sustainability standards.

Digitalization for Greening – When Digital Becomes an Environmental Driver

Beyond being a promotional tool, digitalization in IDAP was positioned as an enabling infrastructure for sustainable production. By equipping participants with skills in content creation (e.g., Canva, TikTok), traceability (e.g., QR codes), and online marketing, the program supported green products to tell their stories and reach new markets.

More importantly, when green products are backed by transparent data, they are not just goods—they become evidence of responsible production, making them more attractive to buyers, partners, and investors in sustainability-conscious markets.

From Seeds to Ecosystems: Building a Replicable Green–Digital Model

By the end of Phase 2 (October 2026), IDAP aims to establish at least 30 data-documented green transition models, 20 branded ecological products available on digital platforms, and an interactive map and storytelling library that can be adapted across other provinces. The closing Green–Digital Fair will not just showcase results, but catalyze new partnerships and investments.

IDAP as a Platform for the Digital Ecological Economy

From a modest digital acceleration initiative, IDAP has become a catalyst for synergistic innovation, where digital and ecological solutions converge, where community voices shape innovation, and where data becomes a shared asset for learning and scaling. KisStartup plays a vital role as a commercialization enabler and strategic ecosystem connector, combining technology fluency with grassroots engagement.

With its multi-stakeholder, flexible approach, IDAP’s twin transition model is ready to be scaled and adapted, contributing to the emergence of a digital ecological economy, where innovation serves not just growth, but regeneration, resilience, and inclusion.

ABOUT THE IDAP PROJECT
The IDAP (Inclusive Digital Acceleration Program) – Strengthening the Inclusive Digital Transformation Ecosystem for MSMEs focusing on agriculture and tourism in Lao Cai and Son La provinces is a project funded by GREAT (Gender Equality through Enhancing Agricultural Production Efficiency and Tourism Development) and is being executed by KisStartup as the main partner from 2024 to 2027.

The project "Gender Equality through Enhancing Agricultural Production Efficiency and Tourism Development in Lao Cai and Son La Provinces" (GREAT) is an initiative funded by the Australian Government and managed by Cowater International. The first phase of GREAT was implemented from 2017-2022, and the second phase (GREAT 2) will be carried out from 2024-2027 with a total investment from the Australian Government of 67.4 million AUD.

For inquiries, please contact:

• Fanpage: https://www.facebook.com/kisstartup
• Website: https://www.kisstartup.com/
• Email: hello@kisstartup.com
• Phone: (+84) 0396292442 (Ms. Xuan)

On May 8, 2025, at the Lao Cai Galaxy Hotel, the event "Unraveling the Knot – Lean Digital Transformation for Cooperatives and Enterprises" took place in an exciting atmosphere, bringing together 58 cooperatives from various sectors across the province, along with the active participation of 15 lecturers and students from the Thai Nguyen University branch in Lao Cai. The event was part of the "Strengthening the Inclusive Digital Transformation Ecosystem – IDAP" project and serves as a prime example of how to drive digital transformation with cooperatives at the center, through the synergy of stakeholders in the ecosystem: educational institutions, service-providing businesses, development support organizations, and the cooperatives themselves.

One of the highlights of the program was the "alternating seating" model, where students, lecturers, and cooperative leaders sat together to practice using the "hands-on" approach. Instead of abstract lectures or vague concepts, topics such as using AI for product pricing, choosing suitable accounting software, or identifying legal risks in digitization were concretized with directly applicable tools that were easy to understand and implement. This direct, practical interaction between academia and cooperatives not only helped learners feel more engaged and receptive but also provided students with the opportunity to experience real-world scenarios – something that traditional curricula often lack.

The program was not just a simple training course but became a three-dimensional connection space: between cooperatives, between cooperatives and academia, and especially between cooperatives and digital transformation solution providers. Notably, the participation of ACMAN – a digital accounting service provider with experience in implementing digital tools for small businesses – brought clear insights into the potential and practical implementation methods. A representative from ACMAN shared that they see significant room for development in the Lao Cai market and committed to continuing their partnership with cooperatives in the journey to save both labor and costs through technology.

Feedback from attendees is clear evidence of the success of this approach. Many expressed surprise and excitement, saying the content was "not distant, closely tied to the business, and what we learn we can immediately understand and apply." The atmosphere was so positive that by the end of the program, many attendees stayed behind to continue discussions, reflecting the genuine desire of cooperatives to find the right path for the future.

The event also highlighted an important point: to make digital transformation more than just a slogan, the serious involvement of the entire ecosystem is necessary. Local authorities, through the Lao Cai Cooperative Alliance, played the role of a connector, gathering forces and creating favorable conditions for implementation. Educational institutions provided knowledge and young, enthusiastic human resources. Technology companies brought practical tools and solutions. And most importantly, cooperatives – those directly involved in production and operations – have become the center and main implementers, rather than merely being recipients of externally imposed solutions.

Right after the event, the ripple effect became evident. Over 40 other cooperatives in the province are continuing to participate in the “Unraveling the Knot” program in the upcoming period. From familiarizing themselves with tools like ChatGPT and Grok, attendees began to realize that digital transformation is no longer a luxury but entirely feasible with the right roadmap and proper support.

We are proud to have played a small part in helping cooperatives in Lao Cai “unravel the knot” in a lean, practical, and effective way. The success of this event serves as a reminder: only when the entire ecosystem is united can digital transformation truly take root and develop sustainably, driven by the needs of businesses.

ABOUT THE IDAP PROJECT

IDAP (Inclusive Digital Acceleration Program) – Strengthening the Inclusive Digital Transformation Ecosystem for MSMEs focusing on agriculture and tourism in Lao Cai and Son La provinces is a project funded by GREAT (Gender Equality through Enhancing Agricultural Production Efficiency and Tourism Development), with KisStartup as the main implementation partner from 2024 to 2027.

The “Gender Equality through Enhancing Agricultural Production Efficiency and Tourism Development in Lao Cai and Son La Provinces” (GREAT) project is an initiative funded by the Australian Government and managed by Cowater International. The first phase of GREAT was implemented from 2017-2022, and the second phase (GREAT 2) will be carried out from 2024-2027 with a total investment of 67.4 million AUD from the Australian Government.

For inquiries, please contact:
Fanpage: https://www.facebook.com/kisstartup
Website: https://www.kisstartup.com/
Email: hello@kisstartup.com
Phone: (+84) 0392161403 (Mr. Hieu)

Within the IDAP Project – Inclusive Digital Acceleration Program, KisStartup has implemented the Dual Transformation model, combining Digitalization and Green Transformation. This model integrates digital technology and environmental protection solutions to create sustainable value for SMEs, cooperatives, and local businesses in Lao Cai and Son La.

Three flagship pilot initiatives implemented:

1) Awareness-raising and diffusion of twin-transition technologies:
In partnership with international and domestic actors such as BTR Global, Sắc Mộc Tinh, Alterno, and scientists including Dr. Trần Chí Thành and expert Dr. Trần Văn Sỹ, KisStartup co-organized thematic workshops on digital and green transition. Deep-dive topics—agricultural by-product processing, renewable energy, resource circularity, plum-drying technologies, alkaline salts, and organic cleaning solutions—were presented in accessible formats for local residents, SMEs, and cooperatives.

2) Connecting local businesses with technology owners for piloting and co-creation:
A series of technology-application models were successfully implemented, including:

• Măng Tân Xuân 269: Developing bamboo-leaf tea from agricultural by-products.

• Forest Homestay Bản Liền: Producing de-astringent tea from mature leaves and herbal deodorizing sachets.

• Na Ka Cooperative (HTX Nà Ka): Turning fresh plums into soft-dried plums to reduce seasonal losses.

• Cuội Organic – Thai Chinh household business: Producing organic dishwashing liquid from home-grown fruit.

All of these products were developed in tandem with digital platforms, helping to amplify product storytelling, increase revenue, and create additional local jobs.

Key values of the twin-transition & outsourced R&D model

Digital transformation provides the platform for diffusion and commercialization; green transformation supplies the innovation engine:
Pursuing both pathways enables businesses not only to optimize processes but also to build brands on sustainable values, meeting rising consumer expectations.

Building trust and technological absorptive capacity in the community:
Beneficiaries do more than access technology—they receive training, run pilots, obtain market feedback, and are supported with testing and licensing procedures. This creates a closed-loop process and strengthens confidence on both the supply and demand sides of technology.

High scalability and suitability for SMEs:
According to Dr. Trần Chí Thành, the model KisStartup deploys does not require expensive machinery or advanced technical conditions. Leveraging local resources and simple production processes, paired with focused training and support, significantly lowers technology barriers—a major challenge for SMEs.

The early success of the twin-transition and outsourced R&D model opens a fresh, effective pathway to building innovation capacity for small and medium-sized enterprises in mountainous provinces. The establishment of Twin-Transition Working Groups in Lào Cai and Sơn La—with the voluntary participation of pioneering businesses and cooperatives—demonstrates the vitality and diffusion potential of this initiative. KisStartup believes the model can continue to expand into sectors such as medicinal herbs, community-based tourism, and OCOP products (One Commune One Product), thereby fostering a green–digital–sustainable innovation ecosystem at the local level.

About the IDAP project

IDAP (Inclusive Digital Accelerator Program) strengthening an inclusive digital-transformation ecosystem for SMEs focused on agriculture and tourism in Lào Cai and Sơn La is funded by GREAT (Gender Responsive Equitable Agriculture and Tourism). KisStartup JSC is the lead implementing partner for 2024–2027.

The project “Promoting Gender Equality through Improving Agricultural Economic Efficiency and Tourism Development in Lào Cai and Sơn La” (GREAT) is funded by the Australian Government and managed by Cowater International. Phase I ran from 2017–2022; Phase II (GREAT 2) runs from 2024–2027 with total Australian Government investment of AUD 67.4 million.

For enquiries, please contact

• Fanpage: https://www.facebook.com/kisstartup
• Website: https://www.kisstartup.com/
• Email: hello@kisstartup.com
• Contact: (+84) 0396 292 442 (Ms. Xuan)

 

Four digital service providers have participated in the Vietnam E-Commerce and Digital Technology Application Forum. This marks their first direct involvement at the heart of the digital transformation wave, where concepts are tested and turned into practical solutions.

The exhibition will open doors for impromptu encounters. A question about optimizing shipping costs might lead to a discussion on logistics in remote areas. A sharing about challenges in digital marketing may inspire a direction rooted in the strength of local culture.
It is moments like these that create the true value of this trip. When hearing how a startup in Ho Chi Minh City expanded its business model, participants began to consider the possibility of scaling their own services. When witnessing a business solution in action, they asked themselves: "Which part could be simplified to suit local services?"
After the trip, the IDAP project will host exchange sessions for participants to share their learnings. Valuable ideas will be developed into concrete plans and become a reference for other units in the community. The ultimate goal is to enhance collective digital transformation capabilities through targeted learning.

ABOUT THE IDAP PROJECT
The Inclusive Digital Acceleration Program (IDAP) – Strengthening an inclusive digital transformation ecosystem for SMEs focusing on agriculture and tourism in the provinces of Lào Cai and Sơn La – is a project funded by GREAT (Gender Equality Through Enhancing Agricultural Production and Tourism Development) and implemented by KisStartup from 2024 to 2027.
The GREAT project is an initiative funded by the Australian government and managed by Cowater International. The first phase of GREAT was implemented from 2017-2022, and the second phase (GREAT 2) will be conducted from 2024-2027 with a total investment of AUD 67.4 million from the Australian Government.

For any inquiries, please contact:
Fanpage: KisStartup
Website: www.kisstartup.com
Email: hello@kisstartup.com
Phone: (+84) 0396292442 (Ms. Xuan)

To promote the connectivity of the national digital transformation ecosystem, the IDAP Project is organizing a learning tour at the Vietnam Sourcing Forum 2025 in Ho Chi Minh City from September 4-6, 2025, for prominent digital service providers.

The tour is not only an opportunity to explore new trends in digital transformation but also a chance for service providers to engage directly with experts, learn about smart business models, and establish relationships with potential partners. The forum will offer fresh perspectives on the market, helping participants seize practical opportunities to apply in their digital service development strategies in Lào Cai and Sơn La. This trip also represents a new approach from the IDAP project to enhance the capabilities of ethnic minority women and people with disabilities. Instead of just learning theoretical knowledge, direct exposure to the real-world environment allows learners to observe, learn, and apply digital transformation more easily.

The IDAP project has always been by the side of service providers, supporting them in improving their business models, helping them reach out to and find customers. Over two seasons, we have witnessed their unwavering efforts to improve service quality and business operations. From late-night assignments seeking feedback to continuous innovations to improve processes, these units have truly shown their commitment to learning and change.

The next phase will be a significant turning point, as these units will not only accumulate knowledge but also actively connect and expand their market networks. The goal is to apply the knowledge gained in practice, build long-term relationships, and create a solid foundation for future cooperation opportunities.

The selected units participating in this trip are:

• Ms. Dương Hồng Thuỷ – Provider of Nặm Chữ services

• Ms. Phạm Thị Kim Anh – Provider of Cultural Heritage Digitalization Consulting services

• Ms. Vàng Thị Mơi – Provider of Mơi Design services

• Ms. Lương Thị Việt Chinh – Provider of Mây Studio services

We will continue to organize more tours in the future, offering opportunities for other service providers to learn and grow. This is the time for you to actively seek opportunities, enhance your capabilities, and decide on your own digital transformation path.

Always be ready to seize new opportunities, learn from real-world experiences, and strive for success in the future.

ABOUT THE IDAP PROJECT
The Inclusive Digital Acceleration Program (IDAP) – Strengthening an inclusive digital transformation ecosystem for SMEs focusing on agriculture and tourism in the provinces of Lào Cai and Sơn La – is a project funded by GREAT (Gender Equality Through Enhancing Agricultural Production and Tourism Development) and implemented by KisStartup from 2024 to 2027.
The GREAT project is an initiative funded by the Australian government and managed by Cowater International. The first phase of GREAT was implemented from 2017-2022, and the second phase (GREAT 2) will be conducted from 2024-2027 with a total investment of AUD 67.4 million from the Australian Government.

For any inquiries, please contact:
Fanpage: KisStartup
Website: www.kisstartup.com
Email: hello@kisstartup.com
Phone: (+84) 0396292442 (Ms. Xuan)

The kickoff event for the "Connect to Conquer Digital Transformation" program on July 14, 2025, has just concluded, yet it leaves behind an intriguing question: Is digital transformation truly different when led by those who once feared technology? The answer lies in each story shared, in every spark of realization when someone discovered, "I can do this."

Mrs. Ma Thi Luyen, owner of Luyen Tho pork paste production facility, is living proof of this transformation. From someone unfamiliar with typing Vietnamese with accents, she now confidently hires students to design her logo and attends computer classes to optimize her work. More importantly, she has learned to clearly express her needs and proactively share ideas instead of passively waiting. She overcame her own doubts about trusting the younger generation: “You have to believe in those who will accompany and support you, and share to achieve what you want.”
A shift in mindset led to a shift in action. In just a short time, she quickly adapted and began solving problems more effectively thanks to this change.

Mrs. Ly Phuong Hoa, owner of Phuong Hoa massage parlor, offers a different perspective—she immediately saw the value of digital services when she experienced their effectiveness firsthand. She discovered how to turn her Facebook fanpage into a consistent sales channel, saving time to focus on developing signature products from the Muong region. During the program, she boldly hired a team member, signed a contract, and paid fees, recognizing the clear benefits of outsourcing. Nearly a year later, she’s satisfied with the collaboration, which has brought results beyond her expectations. This inspired her to invest in software, freeing up time for other priorities.

These changes are not just personal stories, they are a testament that digital transformation leaves no one behind, provided there is a shift in mindset and action. Proactively connecting and working with others also shows how ethnic minority women are evolving day by day.

The spirit of digital transformation was clearly reflected in how businesses actively approached digital service providers (DSPs), no longer waiting passively. They now know what they want, what they need, and take ownership of their decision-making process.

The DSP ecosystem has also demonstrated its diversity. NESA UNI Academy offered specialized design training with meaningful scholarships. FChat introduced a multi-platform chatbot for efficient content management. ACman and Sapo provided solutions for sales and e-invoice management. ezCloud optimized operations for homestays and small hotels. Thanh Giong Computers focused on eco-friendly products, while Sac Moc Tinh added value to agricultural products. The number of national-level DSPs tripling in just one year is clear evidence of the market’s appeal, the strong commitments they bring to businesses, and their aspiration to grow alongside SMEs in local communities.

Though still new, local Digital Service Providers (DSPs) have demonstrated a unique advantage: deep understanding of the culture, language, and consumer behavior in highland areas. Essential services like computer usage training, logo design, and online sales consulting are becoming practical foundations that help micro-businesses embark on their digital transformation journey in alignment with their current capabilities.

Additionally, during the event, the IDAP project shared information about its sponsorship policy for businesses in Lao Cai and Son La provinces who wish to use digital services to increase revenue and grow their operations. This policy has created a positive cycle: businesses gain real experience, DSPs demonstrate real capabilities, and the ecosystem is built on genuine trust. It’s no longer about "trying for fun," but "using for real to measure real impact."

Furthermore, through this program, the IDAP project hopes the local DSP network will gradually become proactive, capable, legally recognized, and self-operating after the project ends. The collaboration between national and local DSPs is already taking shape in tangible ways. As local DSPs learn professional working methods from national partners, they not only improve service quality but also open up long-term growth opportunities in their own communities.

The event attracted a total of 7 national-level DSPs and more than 18 local DSPs, clearly showcasing a spirit of multidimensional connection and a shared commitment to authentic digital transformation.

The first kickoff event has concluded, but the journey of connection continues. Every supported business, every acknowledged service provider represents a foundational brick in building a truly sustainable ecosystem—where no one walks alone and every success becomes the groundwork for positive ripple effects. The IDAP project remains committed to walking alongside—not to lead the way, but to ensure the path is wide enough for everyone to walk together.

Join us, alongside DSPs and businesses in Lao Cai and Son La, to explore new dimensions of digital transformation. Because the greatest successes always begin with sincere connections.

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ABOUT THE IDAP PROJECT

IDAP (Inclusive Digital Acceleration Program) – Enhancing an inclusive digital transformation ecosystem for MSMEs in agriculture and tourism sectors in Lao Cai and Son La provinces – is a project funded by the GREAT program (Gender Responsive Equitable Agriculture and Tourism), with KisStartup Joint Stock Company as the primary implementing partner from 2024 to 2027.

The GREAT project is an initiative funded by the Australian Government and managed by Cowater International. Its first phase was implemented from 2017 to 2022, and the second phase (GREAT 2) runs from 2024 to 2027, with a total investment of AUD 67.4 million from the Australian Government.

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For any inquiries, please contact:

• Fanpage: https://www.facebook.com/kisstartup
• Website: https://www.kisstartup.com/
• Email: hello@kisstartup.com
• Phone: (+84) 0396 292 442 (Ms. Xuan)