innovation

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:

1. https://www.reanin.com/reports/global-r-d-outsourcing-market

2. https://www.cognitivemarketresearch.com/research-and-development-r-and-d...

3. https://blog.tech4bizsolutions.com/the-benefits-of-outsourcing-rd-when-a...

4. https://qubit-labs.com/rd-outsourcing/

5. https://williambuck.com/news/gr/technology/the-advantages-of-outsourcing...

6. https://www.myoutdesk.com/blog/outsourcing-statistics/

7. https://www.econstor.eu/bitstream/10419/193812/1/econ-review-v10-i2-p003...

8. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0166497217309057

9. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0166497202000457

10. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0166497222002139

11. https://www.emerald.com/frep/article/3/2/138/97553/Total-factor-producti...

12. https://www.oecd.org/content/dam/oecd/en/publications/reports/2023/06/oe...

13. https://www.digitalmag.sk/strategic-outsourcing-decisions-of-small-and-m...

14. https://publication.enseignementsup-recherche.gouv.fr/eesr/10EN/EESR10EN... research_and_development_r_d_in_small_and_medium_sized_enterprises_smes_intermediate_sized_enterprises_and_large_enterprises.php

15. https://www.rsm.global/insights/global-rd-tax-incentives-smes-cross-coun...

Starting Up After 40: When Experience Becomes a Strategic Asset

At the age of 40, many people choose stability. Yet, quite a few choose to begin again — to embark on a new journey called “entrepreneurship.” In reality, starting a business after 40 is far from too late. On the contrary, it can be the ideal moment to launch a venture with a strong foundation: life experience, accumulated capital, and maturity in decision-making.

When 40 Becomes a Competitive Advantage

Recent international studies show that 59% of startup founders worldwide are aged 40 or older, and the average age of a successful startup founder is 45. In fact, founders in their 50s are 2.2–2.8 times more likely to succeed, and those in their 60s are three times more likely than their 30-year-old counterparts (Harvard Business Review, 2018; Startup Magazine, 2024).

Why is that? Because by this stage of life, founders have already accumulated:

• Professional experience that helps them understand the market, customers, and how businesses operate.

• Risk management and decision-making skills based on real data rather than intuition.

• Established professional networks — from former colleagues and partners to clients and mentors — providing a strong foundation for fundraising, business expansion, and trust-building.

• More stable personal finances, reducing early-stage pressure and enabling them to self-fund their ventures.

Real-World Challenges and the “Technology Test”

However, starting up after 40 is not without challenges. Founders in this age group often struggle with adopting digital tools, automating processes, and managing finances using digital systems. As most business operations now happen online, slow technological adaptation can make business models less scalable or competitive.

Studies also show that the riskiest period for startups is not the first year, but years two to five, when 70% of startups fail due to poor cash-flow control or imbalance between growth and cost (Equidam, 2023). Moreover, 82% of startups fail due to ineffective cash-flow management (Brooks-Keret, 2024).

For founders over 40, these risks can be even higher, as many rely on personal savings, retirement funds, or severance packages instead of venture capital — which is typically more flexible.

 

 

 

 

Financial Management – The Compass for 40+ Startups

To survive and grow sustainably, smart and disciplined financial management is essential.
According to expert Trịnh Phan Lan, founders at this age should:

• Develop a sound financial mindset, emphasizing savings and risk prevention.

• Use digital tools to track personal and business finances separately, adopting cloud-based accounting platforms for real-time cash-flow monitoring.

• Apply financial modeling and risk forecasting tools to evaluate different business scenarios.

• Build cash-flow reports and detailed forecasts to prepare for potential crises.

• Set up investor and advisor reporting systems to maintain transparency and strengthen trust.

In other words, finance is not just about numbers — it is a strategic early-warning system for decision-making. With a solid risk management mindset, startups led by founders over 40 can operate as sustainably as traditional businesses after 10 years (StartupRegions, 2020).

© Copyright by KisStartup. Any form of reproduction, citation, or reuse must include proper attribution to KisStartup.

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-...

On October 11, 2025, the event “Introducing the Inclusive Digital Transformation Model – Developing the Digital Ecosystem for Enterprises & Launching EduDX Connect”, organized by KisStartup JSC, took place successfully. The event marked a major milestone — one year of implementing the IDAP - Inclusive Digital Acceleration Program, funded by the Australian Government through the GREAT Project, to strengthen inclusive digital ecosystems for MSMEs in Lao Cai and Son La.

Looking Back on a Year When Digital Transformation Became Tangible

In her opening remarks, Ms. Nguyen Dang Tuan Minh – CEO of KisStartup, reflected on more than a year of developing and refining the Inclusive Digital Transformation Model, based on the approach:

“Enterprise-centered – Market-driven – Co-development among stakeholders.”

The model has helped over 200 local enterprises and organizations enhance their digital capabilities, while connecting universities, technical and human resource service providers, and support organizations to form a sustainable digital transformation ecosystem.

From pilot activities in Lao Cai and Son La, the project has achieved notable results:

• Thai Nguyen University – Lao Cai Campus became the first university in Northern Vietnam to launch a Bachelor’s Program in Digital Economics, marking an important step in developing high-quality digital human resources in mountainous areas.

• Tay Bac University actively collaborated with KisStartup to integrate training, coaching, and enterprise engagement into its programs in Son La, turning digital transformation into a key component of education, research, and community service.

• Local technical and human resource service providers were established for the first time, reducing reliance on external experts.

• Hundreds of SMEs, cooperatives, ethnic minority women, and persons with disabilities (PWDs) stepped out of their comfort zones, adopting digital tools, building online businesses, and confidently connecting with domestic and international markets.

Real Stories – Real People – Real Results

The ceremony also honored 12 “Digital Transformation Stars”, representing hundreds of enterprises that have made remarkable progress throughout the year.

Among them, Mr. Nguyen Huu Hau, owner of Phuc Hau Woodcraft (Son La), a person with severe disability, has refused to let his condition define his limits. Through IDAP’s coaching sessions, he learned to use social media, create photos and videos, and build an online brand. Once a craftsman working quietly behind the scenes, he now runs his own fanpage, shares his production process, and tells his story through authentic visual content. His products have reached customers across Vietnam, and more importantly, he has become a source of inspiration for the disability community, training others to use smartphones and digital tools for online business and independent living.

Meanwhile, Ms. Ma Thi Luyen, founder of Luyen Tho Meat Processing (Lao Cai), exemplifies the power of persistence and learning. Once unfamiliar with computers and digital tools, she learned content planning, photography, design, and online sales management through the project. Despite a slow start, she consistently practiced and even hired local service providers to strengthen her digital presence. Today, her business operates effectively online, and she has become a community leader inspiring other ethnic minority women to embrace digital transformation.

EduDX Connect – Bridging Knowledge and Business

Within the same event, EduDX Connect was officially launched — an initiative by KisStartup to connect universities, enterprises, professional organizations, and technology providers for promoting innovation, digital transformation, and commercialization of research outcomes.

Built on the foundation of the IDAP Project, EduDX Connect inherits the proven “Triple Helix” collaboration model piloted in Lao Cai and Son La, aiming to:

• Develop a qualified digital workforce,

• Share best practices, and

• Foster long-term partnerships among academia, industry, and support institutions.

The network was founded by 16 core members representing three key sectors:

• Higher education institutions, including universities and colleges from Hanoi, Hai Phong, Lao Cai, and other key northern regions;

• Professional organizations, including national entrepreneurship support centers and professional associations;

• Technology and digital training enterprises, spanning e-commerce platforms, software solution providers, and online education companies.

Together, they form a bridge between knowledge, technology, and the market, advancing an inclusive and innovative digital transformation ecosystem.

 

Spreading the Spirit of “More Inclusive – Better Connected – Strongly Disseminated”

Voices from the Ground

Ms. Vang Thi Moi, founder of Moi Design in Lao Cai, shared her journey “from hesitant to confident” through the program. She learned how to work with clients professionally and expanded her service toward inclusive design for persons with disabilities, contributing creative products for local businesses.
Ms. Nguyen Hong Giang, expert supporting PWD groups, shared her experience working with over 20 individuals in Lao Cai and Son La, helping them gain confidence and access economic opportunities through digital tools. She emphasized that empathy, patience, and trust are the keys to ensuring genuine inclusion in digital transformation.

Commitments for Future Action

• Thai Nguyen University – Lao Cai Campus reaffirmed its cooperation with KisStartup in five key areas: digitalizing enterprise processes, developing digital marketing, and maintaining the lecturer–student–enterprise collaboration model.

• Tay Bac University committed to integrating business-support activities into student training programs.

• Technology companies in the EduDX Connect network — such as UNICA, FINAN (Sobanhang), and Onelog — pledged long-term engagement, providing tools, internships, and opportunities for students to apply digital solutions in local contexts.

The event concluded with heartfelt gratitude to all partners who have accompanied the IDAP journey — from businesses, lecturers, and students to local organizations and donors.
The message echoed throughout the program:

“Digital transformation is not just about technology — it is about unlocking the potential of people and communities.”

From mountain villages and small cooperatives to universities and tech companies, everyone is working together to build an inclusive digital ecosystem — a place where everyone has the opportunity to learn, connect, and grow sustainably.

 

EduDX Launch Event – The Enterprise–University Partnership Network for Innovation, Digital Transformation, and Technology Commercialization
initiated by KisStartup, was successfully held on October 11, 2025.

In the digital era, the gap between the training capacity of universities and colleges and the practical needs of enterprises has become a major challenge:

• Enterprises need a digital workforce that is technologically competent, implementation-ready, and adaptable. However, most graduates still lack real-world experience.

• Universities aim to strengthen technology adoption in teaching, management, and research, but face limitations in models, implementation experience, and technology partnership networks.

• Digital solution providers possess strong capabilities and resources but lack sustainable collaboration channels with education to both support technology transfer and connect with future talent.

Inspired by the collaboration model established under the IDAP Project – Inclusive Digital Acceleration Program, EduDX aspires to go further by connecting universities, colleges, enterprises, and technology providers into a sustainable partnership network — sharing experience, transferring successful models, and building bridges for high-quality digital talent, while fostering innovation and the commercialization of research outcomes from academia to industry.

EduDX is not only a network, but also a dynamic ecosystem pursuing the following objectives:

• Facilitate collaboration between universities and enterprises in digital transformation, particularly in technology transfer and digital talent development.

• Share models and experiences from pioneering institutions to support others that are in the process of or just beginning their digital transformation journey.

• Create internship and recruitment opportunities that allow students to gain hands-on digital experience and enterprises to access suitable human resources.

• Mobilize technological resources from software companies and digital platforms to directly support universities.

We are honored to introduce the 16 founding members of EduDX:

From Universities and Colleges:

• Hanoi University of Industry

• Hai Phong University

• University of Science and Technology of Hanoi

• Thai Nguyen University – Lao Cai Campus

• Dong A University of Technology

• Student Support Center – Vietnam National University, Hanoi

From Professional Organizations:

• National Innovation Startup Support Center (NSSC)

• Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA)

From Enterprises:

• FINAN Co., Ltd. (Sobanhang)

• Onelog JSC

• ACMan Technology Development JSC

• Vinno Vietnam JSC

• Saint Giong Media & Computer JSC

• UNICA Technology Solutions JSC

• Traphacosapa One Member Co., Ltd.

• Cham Vietnam JSC

We believe that with open collaboration, mutual learning, and knowledge-sharing activities, EduDX will become a meaningful platform that effectively connects education and industry, promoting a comprehensive and sustainable digital transformation.

Digital Transformation (DT) is no longer just about applying technology; it is increasingly seen as a journey of growth that enhances the self-learning ability of business owners. For small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), the capacity for continuous and independent learning is a key factor to adapt to a volatile market and to drive strategic decision-making (McKinsey, 2023). Drawing on experience from projects implemented by KisStartup in Vietnam, this article highlights how DT – especially through Artificial Intelligence (AI) – empowers entrepreneurs to strengthen their self-learning skills, which in turn directly reshapes their strategic choices.

 

Self-directed learning has long been considered an important ability for organizations to adapt (Knowles, 1975). In the digital age, the integration of AI tools turns learning activities from passive intake into an active process of exploration and strategic reflection. Instead of asking “What is this concept?”, business owners gradually learn to search by themselves, experiment, and test strategic options through digital platforms.

Recent studies confirm that AI not only automates processes but also creates personalized learning environments for managers and employees. Platforms such as LinkedIn Learning, Coursera for Business, and Udemy Business have applied AI algorithms to analyze learning progress, detect knowledge gaps, and suggest suitable skill paths (MISA, 2023). This shortens the time to acquire new capabilities and at the same time promotes the adjustment of business strategies.

AI and Business Effectiveness

Adoption rate and learning effectiveness
Global surveys show that the rate of AI adoption in business management has increased rapidly. According to IBM, Forbes, and McKinsey, the percentage of businesses applying AI rose from 33% in 2022 to 72% in 2024 (SkillsBridge, 2023). Another study of 7,500 companies showed that 35% had integrated AI into their processes, while 42% were experimenting (IBM, 2023).

The effect on learning is very clear. AI-based training systems can detect skill gaps, forecast progress, and adjust the curriculum accordingly (AMIS, 2024). Thanks to this, business owners develop a habit of guided self-learning, which is both repetitive and evidence-based.

Performance and strategic innovation
AI-based automation brings significant improvements in performance:

• Businesses report a 20–30% increase in labor productivity thanks to data analysis and decision support (McKinsey Global Institute, 2023).

• In customer service, AI helps increase productivity 1.71 times while reducing staff from 600 to 350 people (Nhân Dân, 2024).

• The application of AI in work management saves an average of 5.4% of weekly working time (~2.2 hours per employee) (Louis, 2024).

These numbers show that AI not only optimizes processes but also creates conditions for employees to focus more on strategic activities, giving business owners more space for critical thinking and strategic innovation.

Cost optimization and human resource development
AI also helps reduce operating costs by up to 25% (Gartner, 2023). This saving allows SMEs to reinvest in training and innovation. When AI is integrated into human resource management and development, entrepreneurs themselves become active learners, ready to test different pricing scenarios, market strategies, and partnership models.

KisStartup’s Approach: Stronger Businesses through Smarter Entrepreneurs

KisStartup’s projects show that digital transformation is not about “doing things for businesses,” but about empowering them to do it themselves. Businesses are encouraged to directly use AI tools, analyze results, reflect, and adjust their own strategies.

In digital transformation accelerator programs in the Northern mountainous region of Vietnam, small homestay owners applied AI tools to design their own marketing campaigns. Export-oriented SMEs used data analysis to adjust product prices and find new markets. Although at first they still made mistakes—such as not providing non-sensitive data to the tools—it was precisely these experiences that helped them understand that openness and transparency are conditions for AI to maximize effectiveness.

We emphasize that digital transformation is a process of nurturing lifelong learning capacity for business owners. The goal is not only short-term productivity, but also forming the habit of self-learning, experimenting, and continuously adapting—qualities that are essential for strategic innovation in an uncertain environment.

Theoretical and Practical Implications

• Resource-Based View (RBV): AI-supported self-learning helps businesses reconfigure resources into competitive advantages.

• Dynamic Capabilities Framework (DCF): Continuous self-learning strengthens the ability to “sense, seize, and transform” which is necessary for strategic flexibility (Teece, 2018).

• Scaling implications: When businesses build internal learning capacity with AI, scaling becomes more efficient, reducing marginal costs and improving operational performance.

International data matches KisStartup’s observations: SMEs applying AI not only improve productivity but also shift their strategic mindset from reactive to proactive. Therefore, digital transformation is not only a technological change but also a transformation of awareness and organization.

Conclusion

Digital transformation, especially with AI, should be understood as a catalyst for the self-learning capacity and strategic innovation of entrepreneurs. Evidence shows that AI increases productivity, reduces costs, and creates personalized learning environments. The greatest value lies in business owners being able to self-learn, self-reflect, and shape their own strategies.

KisStartup’s approach emphasizes this factor: equipping businesses with the ability to explore and ask questions, so that digital transformation becomes the path toward adaptability and long-term competitiveness. In the context of globalization, successful businesses are not necessarily those with the most advanced technology, but those whose leaders know how to learn and continuously adapt.

 

References

• AMIS. (2024). AI-based learning progress analysis. Retrieved from https://amis.misa.vn/245267/phan-tich-tien-do-hoc-tap-bang-ai/
• Gartner. (2023). AI adoption and cost optimization in SMEs. Gartner Research Brief.
• IBM. (2023). AI adoption survey of 7,500 enterprises worldwide. IBM Global AI Index.
• Louis. (2024). AI application in work: saving 5.4% of working time. CloudGo. Retrieved from https://cloudgo.vn/ung-dung-ai-trong-cong-viec
• McKinsey & Company. (2023). The State of AI in 2023. McKinsey Global Institute.
• Nhân Dân. (2024). Improving business management efficiency with AI and smart data. Retrieved from https://nhandan.vn/nang-cao-hieu-suat-quan-tri-doanh-nghiep-voi-ai-va-du-lieu-thong-minh-post887975.html
• SkillsBridge. (2023). AI boosting efficiency: Performance optimization strategies. Retrieved from https://www.skillsbridge.vn/blogs/ai-nang-cao-hieu-suat/chien-thuat-toi-uu-hieu-suat
• Teece, D. J. (2018). Business models and dynamic capabilities. Long Range Planning, 51(1), 40–49.

A Meaningful Milestone After 10 Years of Steadfast Innovation

At the National Exhibition of Achievements—held by the Ministry of Science and Technology to celebrate the 80th anniversary of Vietnam’s National Day—we were deeply honored to see the KisStartup logo featured on the map of Vietnam’s innovation and startup ecosystem. This recognition is not only a source of pride for us, but also a reminder to remain humble, dedicated, and resilient throughout our decade-long journey supporting entrepreneurs.

In a world eager for quick, headline-grabbing success, we believe that true change comes from perseverance. Every startup we accompany is more than a figure in a report; it is a vital piece of a larger picture. Every trainer we mentor will, in turn, pass knowledge to hundreds of students in the years ahead. That is how we understand sustainable innovation: not by creating one-off miracles, but by laying the foundation for positive change to multiply on its own.

Execution Matters More Than Ideas

After years of working with hundreds of startups, KisStartup has learned a crucial truth: good ideas can come from anywhere, but the ability to turn those ideas into reality is rare. That’s why entrepreneurship isn’t a race against time—it’s a race to shorten the learning curve and build the fundamental capabilities needed to transform ideas into sustainable action.

When implementing donor-funded projects in general—and the IDAP program in particular—we chose not to simply teach businesses how to use digital tools. Instead, we approached it as an inclusive, market-system-oriented effort to develop a comprehensive digital transformation ecosystem. We put businesses and their needs at the center. For the ecosystem’s players to work effectively together, every stakeholder must strengthen their own capacity. Once that happens, universities can connect with enterprises, service providers can link with users, and a self-sustaining support network can emerge. This process has deepened our understanding of our own role.

Along the way, KisStartup has helped startups expand their markets. Companies like So Ban Hang and Sac Moc Tinh not only brought technology to new audiences but also uncovered fresh needs. To foster local ecosystem models, we’ve invested in understanding our partners’ requirements as well as in sharpening our own expertise. Our organization and projects serve as incubators where all ecosystem stakeholders can participate and grow.

Inclusive Innovation, Broader Connections

One of the most valuable lessons from our innovation journey came through the IDAP4D program, where we opened opportunities for people with disabilities. At first, we thought we were creating chances for a specific group. But with creative methods and flexible approaches, locally run service providers led by people with disabilities began to take shape. From these efforts, a model for enabling persons with disabilities to join the digital transformation has emerged—one that is closely intertwined with the local ecosystem.

Responsibility on the National Innovation Map

Seeing the KisStartup logo on Vietnam’s national startup and innovation map brought not just pride, but also a profound sense of responsibility. It’s a call to keep laying small but steady building blocks so that, one day, innovation will no longer be the privilege of a select few, but the shared capability of an entire community.

Presence at the Exhibition Extended to 15/09/2025

Being featured in the national exhibition—whose duration the Prime Minister has decided to extend until 15/09/2025—is not only a recognition, but also a daily reminder of our commitment. The past ten years are only the beginning. We believe that with every small yet steady step, KisStartup will continue to be a trusted companion, helping transform aspirations into reality and ideas into positive impact for the community and society.

KisStartup – Knowledge Transformed into Action, Aspirations into Reality!

Innovation for Sustainable Community Development

• Fanpage: https://www.facebook.com/kisstartup
• Website: https://www.kisstartup.com/
• Email: hello@kisstartup.com
   

Center for Research on Innovation and Entrepreneurship and Digital Economy (IEDE) – Trung tâm Đổi mới sáng tạo và Kinh tế số  established in 2017 by KisImpact.

With the goal of promoting the development of the digital economy and building a vibrant innovation-driven startup ecosystem, IEDE is tasked with closely collaborating with partners to implement research, training, coaching, and investment connection programs that create long-term and impactful results within the entrepreneurial community.

We are honored to introduce the center's logo on the occasion of the 10th anniversary of KisStartup. The logo features a modern design with stylized letters “IEDE” in blue tones, symbolizing hope and the transformative power of technology for the future. A key highlight of the logo is a lightbulb integrated into the letter “D”, representing continuous creativity and innovation.

Accompanied by the slogan “Turning Insights into Innovation”, IEDE aspires to transform deep market and customer insights into breakthrough innovation, leveraging available resources to foster the growth of the digital innovation startup ecosystem. With a mission to advance research and application in innovation, IEDE positions itself as a pioneering force in the development of Vietnam’s digital economy and entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Over its 8 years of operation, IEDE has conducted both academic research and internationally published studies, as well as commissioned research for organizations and enterprises. Additionally, IEDE has partnered with universities and researchers to pursue deeper studies in innovation, entrepreneurship, and digital transformation. The center also continues to nurture a young team of researchers, contributing to the formation of insightful and highly practical knowledge for Vietnam’s startup ecosystem and international collaboration. 

Center for Impact Innovation and Sustainability (CIIS) – The Center for Impact Innovation and Sustainability, under Kis Impact, was established in 2020.

With a mission to promote innovation and develop sustainable business models in Vietnam, CIIS focuses on addressing specific challenges faced by businesses while also implementing projects that generate positive social and environmental impacts. This is achieved through collaboration with both domestic and international partners, building networks, and enhancing innovation capacity within the business community.

The CIIS logo features a circle formed by gradient green leaves, symbolizing sustainable growth, connection, and the spread of positive impact. The leaves are arranged from light to dark shades, resembling a cyclical motion that reflects the continuous movement of innovation and impact-driven initiatives. This design embodies CIIS's mission to promote innovation activities closely linked with sustainability values and positive community impact. Beneath the logo is the slogan “Design Innovation Delivery Impact”, where “Design Innovation” is highlighted in orange-yellow to represent creativity and innovation, while “Delivery Impact” in green reflects the commitment to delivering practical and sustainable impacts—not only for the environment but also for society as a whole.

Over nearly five years of operation, CIIS has conducted research on innovation and sustainable business model development, implemented local capacity-building programs, and carried out commissioned projects from domestic and international partners. It has also developed training materials on circular economy entrepreneurship and innovation-driven startups in cultural heritage. CIIS aims to become a bridge connecting startups, researchers, businesses, and international organizations to promote high-impact innovation solutions that address social and environmental challenges—towards building a sustainable and thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem.

On December 17, 2024, at the seminar “Directions and Solutions for Preserving and Promoting Rituals and Ritual Folk Songs of the Dao People in Vietnam in the Age of Industry 4.0” organized by the Lao Cai Branch of Thai Nguyen University and the Lao Cai General Museum under the framework of the Vingroup Project, Ms. Nguyễn Đặng Tuấn Minh, representing KisStartup, KisImpact, and the Business Incubator, delivered an important presentation on developing new business models based on cultural heritage, digital technology, and entrepreneurship.

Key Highlights of the Presentation

The presentation emphasized the role of new business models in creating and enhancing value from cultural heritage through the following key points:

• A business model is a way to create and capture value.
• A new business model is a method to generate new value and receive new returns.
• When applied to cultural heritage, the new business model includes:
  1. Refreshing current business models by enhancing value through cultural and heritage elements combined with digital technology.
  2. Developing entirely new business models based on cultural heritage, leveraging digital technology to create unique competitive advantages.

Vietnam's Global Potential

KisStartup highlighted Vietnam’s immense potential in combining cultural heritage with digital technology and entrepreneurship:

• Vietnam ranks 24th out of 89 countries for its richness in heritage (according to U.S. News & World Report).
• Vietnam ranks 56th in cultural influence worldwide.
• Vietnam ranks 43rd out of 89 countries for having a dynamic startup ecosystem.

With its rich cultural heritage and a rapidly developing startup ecosystem, Vietnam is well-positioned to pioneer the development of innovative and sustainable business models based on cultural heritage. This approach creates new values and enhances competitiveness in the Industry 4.0 era.

Under the IDAP Project (Inclusive Digital Acceleration Program) to enhance the inclusive digital transformation ecosystem in Lao Cai and Son La, KisStartup has also witnessed significant transformations in various business models during the digital transformation process.

The presentation by the representative of KisStartup, KisImpact, and the Business Incubator provided a new perspective and proposed many practical solutions for preserving and promoting cultural heritage, particularly that of the Dao people, and Vietnam in general. Integrating digital technology and entrepreneurial spirit into the cultural sector not only preserves traditional values but also creates sustainable and unique business opportunities for the future.