Australia

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)

The IDAP Project (Inclusive Digital Acceleration Program) is pleased to announce the opening of applications for service providers to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Lào Cai and Sơn La in digital and green transformation.

Eligibility
Individuals, businesses, training centers, or household businesses providing:

• Hardware and software for digital transformation (devices, management systems, technological solutions).
• Training in office IT, software, and digital skills for businesses.
• Consulting and implementing digital transformation solutions.
• Services related to digital workforce and recruitment platforms, including:
  • Consulting and training to enhance digital skills for the workforce.
  • Providing online recruitment platforms or HR services for SMEs.

Expectations from Applicants

• Expand market presence in Lào Cai, Sơn La, and the Northwest region.
• Offer long-term services tailored to SMEs.
• Participate in the cross-service ecosystem between the two provinces and the region.

Benefits of Participation

• Access to a network of potential SMEs in agriculture and tourism in Lào Cai and Sơn La.
• Expand business opportunities with enterprises inside and outside the region.
• Collaborate with the IDAP Project in training, consulting, and business connection programs.
• Build brand reputation and credibility in digital transformation and digital workforce services in the Northwest region.

Application Deadline: February 5, 2025

Register Now: https://forms.gle/HFZKJ1GdbPAcAxU7A

Contact: (+84) 0392161403 (Mr. Hiếu)
Email: hello@kisstartup.com
Fanpage: @idapvietnam

Join IDAP to become a part of the inclusive digital transformation ecosystem and contribute to the sustainable development of SMEs in Lào Cai, Sơn La, and the Northwest region.

Are You a Business Owner in Lào Cai or Sơn La?
Do you want to increase revenue, expand your market, and optimize your business operations like many successful businesses from Phase 1?

Are you a person with disabilities or a business owner seeking access to digital and green transformation solutions?

The “IDAP – Enhancing the Inclusive Digital Transformation Ecosystem for SMEs” project is your opportunity to take your business to the next level!

Project Objectives

• Support micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in development through digital and green transformation.
• Prioritize businesses led by ethnic minority women and persons with disabilities.
• Build an innovation ecosystem, creating a favorable environment for SMEs to grow sustainably.

Benefits of Joining the Project

• Intensive training and consulting on digital and green transformation solutions.
• Connect with leading experts in technology and business fields.
• Expand your collaboration network with potential domestic and international partners.
• Access opportunities to join workshops, training sessions, and business networking events.

Who Can Join?

• Small and medium-sized business owners in Lào Cai and Sơn La.
• Persons with disabilities or businesses employing people with disabilities.
• Businesses aiming to enhance their capacity and boost revenue through innovative solutions.

Register Now: https://forms.gle/cY3FQyQyJjVmqrzy6
Contact: (+84) 0989 812 698 (Mai Pham)
Email: hello@kisstartup.com
Fanpage: @idapvietnam

The excitement from previous rounds hasn’t cooled down yet, and the 3rd round has officially launched! KisStartup continues to recruit interns for the project "Enhancing the Inclusive Digital Transformation Ecosystem for SMEs," focusing on agriculture and tourism in Lao Cai and Son La provinces – IDAP_Internship.

In this 3rd round, we are looking for candidates full of determination, eager to learn, and ready to face challenges, to join us on the journey of driving digital transformation for local businesses. This is not just an opportunity to learn and grow but also a chance to create real value for the community.

If you missed out on previous rounds, now is the time to go “all in” and apply for this recruitment round!

BENEFITS:

• Learn from experienced business owners and experts: Gain the opportunity to work and learn directly from business owners and experts in the field of e-commerce.
• Hands-on experience and practice: Participate in intensive training sessions with business owners and apply knowledge of online marketing and e-commerce in a real business environment.
• Expand your network: Connect with talented and skilled individuals, building a strong personal network.
• Personal growth: Receive constructive feedback to enhance professional skills and sharpen personal abilities in a practical business environment.
• Practical certification: A participation certificate to boost your personal profile, especially for those planning to study abroad.

JOB DESCRIPTION:

• Interns will assist businesses in online marketing: Writing articles, creating content, channel planning, designing images, editing videos, etc. Platforms include Facebook, Zalo, and TikTok.
• Interns will assist businesses in e-commerce: Building, managing, and operating online shops on e-commerce platforms. Platforms include Shopee, TikTok Shop, and Lazada.

REQUIREMENTS:

• No prior experience or specific major required.
• Must take full responsibility for the quality of work.
• Willingness to learn and adapt to changes.
• Basic knowledge of e-commerce and online marketing.

APPLICATION
If you wish to be part of the IDAP project and join us in pioneering innovation and digital transformation for SMEs in Lào Cai and Sơn La, don’t hesitate to apply now at: https://forms.gle/AVBFPH8i289H6EKd6

DEADLINE: February 5, 2025

ABOUT THE IDAP PROJECT
IDAP (Inclusive Digital Acceleration Program) – Enhancing the Inclusive Digital Transformation Ecosystem for SMEs in Lào Cai and Sơn La is funded by GREAT (Gender Responsive Equitable Agriculture and Tourism Program) and implemented by KisStartup JSC as the main partner from 2024 to 2027.

IDAP originated from the Digital Acceleration Program (DAP), designed for businesses, cooperatives, and individual household businesses. By the end of the program:

• 100% transformed their business models.
• 100% increased their revenue.
• More than 7.2 billion VND in total revenue generated through online channels during five 10-week sessions, with each business/cooperative achieving a 300–500% increase in revenue compared to pre-program levels.

ABOUT THE GREAT PROJECT
The Gender Responsive Equitable Agriculture and Tourism Program (GREAT) is an initiative funded by the Australian Government and managed by Cowater International. Phase 1 of GREAT was implemented from 2017–22, and Phase 2 (GREAT 2) runs from 2022–27, with a total investment of AUD 67.4 million from the Australian Government.

Learn more at: https://equality.aus4vietnam.org/vi/gioi-thieu/chung-toi-lam-gi

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For inquiries, please contact:
Fanpage: https://www.facebook.com/kisstartup
Website: https://www.kisstartup.com/
Email: hello@kisstartup.com
Phone: (+84) 869.190.704 (Mr. Dung)

I. Objectives

• Promote the products and services of local businesses in Lào Cai and Sơn La.

• Increase revenue for businesses participating in the IDAP project during the 2025 Lunar New Year season.

• Engage the community and foster interaction and connection between students and businesses in Lào Cai and Sơn La.

II. Content
1. Challenge:
Create a video to promote products and services and boost revenue for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Lào Cai and Sơn La during the 2025 Lunar New Year season.

2. Program Agenda:

Activities	Time
Launch of Hackathon Challenge 3	December 23, 2024 - December 24, 2024
After receiving the businesses, teams will research and develop ideas	December 25, 2024
Organize the weekly competition	From 12:00 AM on December 25, 2024, to 6:00 PM on December 30, 2024
Summary and announcement of results, along with awarding supplementary prizes for contest entries (Online Zoom Meeting)	December 31, 2024

3. Participants:

• University/college students nationwide, with special encouragement for students from Lào Cai and Sơn La.

• Participation can be as a team or individually.

4. How to Participate and Video Requirements:

4.1. How to Participate

Step 1: Register

• Fill out the registration form: [Link]

• Select businesses:

  • A list of participating businesses will be available in the registration form.

  • Participants/teams can choose one or multiple products/services from various businesses to promote.

  • The organizing committee will provide details about the businesses, including product/service information, to help participants align with their ideas and strengths.

Step 2: Produce and Publish Video

• After registration, participants can review product content and images via the businesses' fan pages, then develop their video ideas and content.

• Create a creative advertisement video that meets the challenge requirements.

• Ensure the video content aligns with cultural values and complies with Vietnamese copyright and legal standards.

• Upload the video to the team's personal media channels (Facebook, TikTok, YouTube, etc.).

• For order inquiries, contact the organizing committee via phone: 0949598768 or 0869190704 (revenue points are counted only for successfully completed orders).

• Video interaction and revenue will be tracked from 12:00 AM, December 25, 2024, to 6:00 PM, December 30, 2024.

Step 3: Submit the Video

• Send the video via the Google form: [Link]

Step 4: Voting and Judging

• The submitted videos will be uploaded to the participants' personal or team media channels (Facebook, TikTok, YouTube).

• Judges will evaluate the videos based on criteria to determine the main prizes.

4.2. Video Requirements

• Maximum duration: 5 minutes.

• Must include a title and a short description.

• Language: Vietnamese (additional languages encouraged to expand international appeal).

• No copyright infringement on music, images, or content.

• Content must align with cultural norms and avoid violence, controversy, or sensitive topics.

• Clear video and audio quality.

• Must include the IDAP project logo: [Link].

• Videos must include the following hashtags:
  #IDAP #digital_transformation #digital_innovation_challenge

5. Online Voting Scoring System

5.1. Scoring Principles

Total Score = Interaction Points (50%) + Revenue Points (50%)

5.2. Implementation Process

A. Interaction Points (50%)

• Weekly rankings based on total video interactions (total views):

  • Highest interaction: 100 points.

  • 2nd place: 80 points.

  • 3rd place: 60 points.

  • 4th place: 40 points.

  • 5th place: 20 points.

  • Other videos: 10 points.

B. Revenue Points (50%)

• Rankings based on revenue generated (confirmed by businesses):

  • Highest revenue: 100 points.

  • 2nd place: 80 points.

  • 3rd place: 60 points.

  • 4th place: 40 points.

  • 5th place: 20 points.

  • Other videos: 10 points.

Tiebreakers:

1. Revenue priority: Higher revenue ranks higher.

2. If revenue is tied, total interaction determines rank.

3. If both are tied, earlier submission ranks higher.

6. Prizes

6.1. Total Prize Value: 40 million VND

Participants may also earn additional product commission based on creativity, content quality, and media effectiveness.

6.2. Prize Breakdown:

• For individuals/teams supporting businesses:

  • 2 First Prizes: 6,000,000 VND each (requires at least 2,000 views and highest total revenue confirmed by businesses).

  • 4 Second Prizes: 4,000,000 VND each.

  • 6 Third Prizes: 2,000,000 VND each.

(Total of 6 prizes per province, equivalent to 12 prizes across both provinces.)

 

In the process of digital transformation, some businesses have "inadvertently" created new environmentally-friendly products that provide jobs for marginalized communities.

(Mrs. Vi Thi Sang, Member of Tan Xuan 269 Cooperative, harvesting bamboo leaves)

Over the past four years, *We have had the opportunity to support and accompany many small businesses and ethnic minority cooperatives in Son La and Lao Cai to "digitally transform" for sustainable development within the framework of the GREAT project funded by the Australian Government.

Digital transformation, from our perspective, is not an abstract or distant concept. When discussing with business owners, we explain that it's about leveraging the internet to sell better, easier, and with greater impact. This process is not simply about applying technology, but more importantly, about creating new products, new markets, new methods, and above all, a fresh mindset.

We anticipate sharing the fascinating stories we've experienced. These stories might potentially inspire similar business support policies and motivate companies at any level and scale.

Which Products Are Suitable for Online Sales?
Actually, any product can be sold online (not just on e-commerce platforms, but also websites and social media), but typically, businesses lack confidence in raw products. The reasons include complex preservation, transportation, storage, and packaging processes, with high wastage rates. Moreover, online competition is even more fierce than traditional markets, with an overwhelming variety of products.

To best benefit from internet sales, businesses should create processed products with long shelf lives, minimal maintenance requirements, and easy transportation. The products themselves should have unique characteristics to stand out from the crowd and capture user attention.

Not Afraid to Experiment with New Products
We had the opportunity to support Tan Xuan 269 Cooperative in Son La to develop a new online product. Previously, they had been successful selling dried bamboo shoots in traditional markets and on social media and e-commerce platforms. "Bamboo shoots sell out from the moment we start production," shared Mrs. Cao Thi Tam, the cooperative's manager.

However, bamboo shoots are seasonal, and with just this product, despite its popularity, they couldn't help all cooperative members escape poverty. Therefore, finding a new product to increase revenue was their constant need. We suggested they process bamboo leaf tea. This was an emerging product in the market, proving its feasibility, with relatively low competition, as only a few businesses in the south produced "bamboo leaf water".

Moreover, this beverage is quite familiar to people in Lao Cai, who traditionally steep bamboo leaves in bamboo tubes while in the forest. The idea was quickly embraced, and it took just three weeks to launch the product. Currently, many people are interested in ordering bamboo leaf tea on social media, with plans for wider distribution.
Another story involves Homestay Ban Liens Forest, a family business in Bac Ha, Lao Cai, famous for Shan Snow Tea grown at 1800m altitude. Their tea, with a beautiful green color and sweet, fragrant taste, is exported to 40 countries, including demanding markets like Europe and the US.

Ban Liens Forest primarily offers tourism services and promotes them on social media, attracting many tourists. However, tourism has its "seasons", and outside peak times, they also harvest and sell tea. The challenge was how to "compete" with dozens or hundreds of local households selling similar products, even online.

We discovered that mature tea leaves are also sold piecemeal on e-commerce platforms, unlike the traditional young tea buds processed by Ban Liens. We shared this insight with the homestay owners, who quickly agreed. Vang Thi Thong, a homestay member, even expressed interest in finding technology to remove bitterness from tea leaves. Now they have a new product: dried mature tea leaves, to be consumed in the Japanese Bancha style.

The journey from idea to a marketable product happened quickly, partly thanks to "digital transformation" or, more broadly, the internet. Both businesses were already "present" on social media through Facebook fan pages with an established audience.

Social media reduces market entry barriers, allowing them to explore markets and diversify products. Whenever they have a new product or idea, they can quickly test user reactions by introducing products and engaging with customers online.

(Ban Lien Forest introduces its homestay experience on social media)

Bamboo leaf tea and mature tea leaves – two "non-traditional" products compared to their previous offerings – would typically require significant time and effort to promote and convince customers if sold directly. However, online sales enable them to quickly share with existing customers and find potential new ones with just a few clicks.

This process inevitably requires them to adjust their communication and sales approach to suit new customers, gradually transforming their business model without significant costs, and with the ability to fail quickly and painlessly.

As similar products emerge in the market, these businesses now have a loyal customer base. They continue leveraging the internet to experiment with new ideas. In fact, after launching mature tea leaf products, a Ban Liens Forest member posted about tea flowers online and immediately received purchase orders. The Tan Xuan Cooperative is also introducing dried ginger products online.

Accidentally Turning Green
Neither Tan Xuan 269 Cooperative nor Ban Liens Forest Homestay initially planned their current products. Tan Xuan 269 only harvested bamboo shoots, leaving bamboo leaves unused. Ban Liens people only harvested young tea buds for green tea, discarding bitter mature leaves. Now, these agricultural by-products have been transformed into new product lines.

The bamboo leaf tea maintains its distinctive fragrance, beautiful green color, and is believed to offer health benefits like heat relief and respiratory treatment.

"Everyone in the community likes the product. People even stayed up all night to complete and send out new product samples. We've already received orders. In the future, with this technology, we're experimenting with new products to sell not just locally, but to leverage e-commerce for nationwide and potentially international sales," Mrs. Cao Thi Tam said.

Regarding mature tea leaf products, Mr. Lam A Nang from Ban Liens Forest Homestay shared, "It has a good taste, isn't bitter, and has potential for application in new products to sell to tourists, on e-commerce platforms, and our own fan page."

It's worth noting that these new products emerged not just from the businesses themselves but through our connection with scientists. Mr. Tran Chi Thanh, founder of Sac Moc Tinh Company, transferred chlorophyll-defining technology to these two businesses at a preferential rate, preserving the green color while removing the bitter taste.

The success stories of Tan Xuan 269 Cooperative and Lao Cai businesses demonstrate the effectiveness of expanding business capabilities and experimenting with new models. Utilizing agricultural by-products not only reduces waste but also helps build sustainable value chains, bringing economic and social benefits. Processes like harvesting, sorting, processing, and packaging create jobs for local labor, particularly suitable for women, people with disabilities, and unskilled workers. This represents a significant step in using digital transformation to promote gender equality and social inclusion.

By Luu Trong Hieu - Nguyen Viet Dung*
Project Assistants, Digital Business Acceleration Program (IDAP) for Businesses, Cooperatives, and Individual Businesses at KisStartup