Vietnam Launches NIC Scale X Accelerator for Deep Tech Startups

The Vietnam National Innovation Center (NIC), in collaboration with the Embassy of Japan, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Mitsubishi Research Institute (MRI), and Plug and Play, announced the launch of the NIC Scale X accelerator program on January 14, 2026. This initiative aims to bolster Vietnam’s innovation ecosystem and support high-potential startups in key technology sectors.

The NIC Scale X program is part of the “Vitalizing the Viet Nam National Innovation Center” project, which receives funding from the Government of Japan. It focuses on creating a multi-stakeholder innovation ecosystem at the National Innovation Center in Hoa Lac. This initiative brings together startups, investors, corporate partners, academia, and government entities to address the scalability challenges faced by early-stage deep tech startups while promoting 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.” He noted that the program aims to enable Vietnamese startups to scale sustainably, access international markets, and contribute to the country’s national innovation priorities.

Program Details and Structure

The NIC Scale X program will run for 13 weeks, focusing on deep tech solutions in areas such as healthcare, clean energy, smart factories, agritech, Internet of Things (IoT), and digital infrastructure. The cohort is expected to consist of approximately 80% Vietnamese startups and 20% Japanese startups, fostering opportunities for bilateral knowledge exchange and technology collaboration.

Startups participating in the program will undergo a structured selection process, receiving targeted mentorship and expert-led workshops. These resources will help refine their business models and operational strategies, preparing them for the competitive markets of Vietnam and Southeast Asia.

Ryosuke Ogata, General Director of MRIV International LLC, a subsidiary of Mitsubishi Research Institute in Vietnam, 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.”

Key outcomes for the program include a focus on impact-driven innovation that aligns with Vietnam’s science and technology priorities and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The initiative intends to build ecosystem capacity through tailored workshops that enhance startup knowledge in areas such as intellectual property, taxation, regulatory frameworks, and growth strategies.

Collaboration and Future Outlook

Mike Maceda, Director of Corporate Partnerships & Open Innovation Services APAC at Plug and Play, highlighted the significance of public-private partnerships in accelerating innovation. He stated, “This collaboration highlights the power of public-private partnerships in accelerating innovation. Plug and Play will broaden these connections and equip these founders with the targeted knowledge and pathways necessary to build sustainable and competitive businesses.”

The NIC Scale X program is anticipated to contribute to the development of a more connected, investment-ready, and globally competitive deep tech startup ecosystem in Vietnam. It aims to strengthen cross-border collaboration between Vietnamese and Japanese innovation communities.

Applications for the NIC Scale X accelerator program will be open from January 14 to February 27, 2026. Interested startups can apply through the NIC website.

The “Vitalizing the Viet Nam National Innovation Center” project addresses significant challenges in Vietnam’s innovation ecosystem, such as limited access to capital, fragmentation among stakeholders, and skills gaps in critical innovation sectors.

The Vietnam National Innovation Center, under the Ministry of Finance, serves as a national hub for fostering innovation and strengthening Vietnam’s startup and venture investment ecosystem. It aims to cultivate a robust network of domestic and international venture capital investors, enhancing capital flows into high-potential, innovation-driven enterprises.

For more information about the NIC, UNDP, Mitsubishi Research Institute, or Plug and Play, please visit their respective websites.