Vietnam Launches NIC Scale X Accelerator to Boost Deep Tech Startups

The Vietnam National Innovation Center (NIC), in collaboration with the Embassy of Japan, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the Mitsubishi Research Institute (MRI), and Plug and Play, has announced the launch of the NIC Scale X program. This new deep tech accelerator aims to strengthen Vietnam’s innovation ecosystem and support promising startups across key technology sectors. The initiative was revealed on January 14, 2026, at the NIC headquarters in Hoa Lac.

This program is part of the broader project titled “Vitalizing the Vietnam National Innovation Center,” which is funded by the Government of Japan and co-implemented by UNDP and NIC. It aims to create a multi-stakeholder ecosystem that unites startups, investors, corporate partners, academia, and government entities. By leveraging the strengths of its partners, the NIC Scale X initiative intends to address significant scalability challenges faced by early-stage deep tech startups and foster collaboration between Vietnam and Japan.

Vu Quoc Huy, Director of the Vietnam National Innovation Center, emphasized the program’s importance, stating, “This deep tech-driven acceleration program underscores NIC’s commitment to building a strong, globally connected innovation ecosystem for Vietnam.” The initiative will establish a high-quality acceleration platform, enabling startups to access international markets and align with national innovation priorities.

Program Details and Focus Areas

The NIC Scale X program is structured as a 13-week intensive acceleration course focusing on various deep tech solutions, including healthcare, clean energy, smart factories, agritech, Internet of Things (IoT), and digital infrastructure. Approximately 80% of the participating startups will be Vietnamese, while 20% will come from Japan, fostering opportunities for knowledge exchange and technology collaboration.

Startups selected for the program will undergo a rigorous multi-stage selection process. They will receive targeted mentorship, expert-led workshops, and hands-on support aimed at refining their business models, operational strategies, and investment readiness for the Southeast Asian market.

Ryosuke Ogata, General Director of MRIV International LLC, a subsidiary of Mitsubishi Research Institute, remarked, “NIC Scale X stands as a strategic initiative aimed at fostering a vibrant innovation ecosystem while bridging Vietnamese and Japanese startups to scale sustainably.” He emphasized the program’s role in connecting entrepreneurs addressing societal issues in both regions.

Long-term Impact and Outcomes

Beyond commercial aspirations, the NIC Scale X initiative prioritizes impact-driven innovation aligned with Vietnam’s science and technology goals and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The program will offer tailored workshops and mentoring sessions designed to enhance startup knowledge in areas such as intellectual property, taxation, and regulatory frameworks specific to Vietnam.

Mike Maceda, Director of Corporate Partnerships & Open Innovation Services APAC at Plug and Play, stated, “This collaboration highlights the power of public-private partnerships in accelerating innovation.” He noted that the program’s international reach would enhance connections among talent, customers, and investors, equipping founders with the necessary tools to build competitive businesses.

The NIC Scale X program aims to develop a more connected, investment-ready, and globally competitive deep tech startup ecosystem in Vietnam while reinforcing collaboration between Vietnamese and Japanese innovation communities. Applications for the accelerator program are open from January 14 to February 27, 2026.

For more information on the NIC Scale X program and application details, interested parties can visit the official NIC website. Through this initiative, Vietnam aims to cultivate an environment conducive to innovation, fostering sustainable growth and technological advancement.