Vietnam Launches NIC Scale X Accelerator to Boost Deep Tech Startups

The Vietnam National Innovation Center (NIC) has officially launched the NIC Scale X Accelerator Program, a new initiative designed to foster the development of deep tech startups in Vietnam. Announced on January 14, 2026, in Hoa Lac, this program is a collaboration between the NIC, the Embassy of Japan, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Mitsubishi Research Institute (MRI), and Plug and Play. It aims to strengthen Vietnam’s innovation ecosystem while addressing scalability challenges faced by early-stage startups.

This initiative is part of the larger project titled “Vitalizing the Viet Nam National Innovation Center,” funded by the Government of Japan. The program establishes a multi-stakeholder ecosystem at the NIC, bringing together startups, investors, corporate partners, academic institutions, and government entities. By leveraging the strengths of its partners, NIC Scale X seeks to enhance cross-border collaboration between Vietnam and Japan.

Vu Quoc Huy, Director of the Vietnam National Innovation Center, emphasized the program’s significance, stating, “This deep tech-driven acceleration program underscores NIC’s commitment to building a strong, globally connected innovation ecosystem for Vietnam.” The program aims to support high-potential startups, enabling them to scale sustainably and access international markets.

Program Details and Focus Areas

The NIC Scale X program is structured as a 13-week intensive accelerator, focusing on deep tech solutions in areas such as healthcare, clean energy and ESG, smart factories, agritech, the Internet of Things (IoT), and digital infrastructure. Approximately 80% of the participating startups will be Vietnamese, while 20% will come from Japan, promoting a rich exchange of knowledge and technology.

The selection process for startups is multi-stage and designed to ensure participants receive targeted mentorship and expert-led workshops. These resources will assist startups in refining their business models and enhancing their operational strategies, preparing them for investment opportunities within Vietnam and Southeast Asia.

Mr. Ryosuke Ogata, General Director of MRIV International LLC, highlighted the program’s role in addressing societal issues. He stated, “NIC Scale X stands as a strategic initiative aimed at fostering a vibrant innovation ecosystem while bridging Vietnamese and Japanese startups to scale sustainably.”

Expected Outcomes and Impact

Beyond commercial objectives, the NIC Scale X program emphasizes impact-driven innovation that aligns with Vietnam’s national science and technology goals and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Tailored workshops and mentoring sessions will focus on critical areas such as intellectual property, taxation, regulatory frameworks, and growth strategies specific to the Vietnamese market.

Mike Maceda, Director of Corporate Partnerships & Open Innovation Services APAC at Plug and Play, noted the importance of public-private partnerships in accelerating innovation. He expressed optimism about the program’s potential impact, stating, “We’re looking forward to the impact that these businesses will bring to Vietnam.”

This accelerator program is expected to significantly contribute to the development of a more connected and investment-ready deep tech startup ecosystem in Vietnam. It aims to strengthen collaboration between Vietnamese and Japanese innovation communities, ultimately enhancing the region’s global competitiveness.

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’s official website.

The “Vitalizing the Viet Nam National Innovation Center” project is an initiative funded by the Government of Japan to address critical challenges such as limited access to capital, fragmentation among stakeholders, and skill gaps in innovation sectors. Co-implemented by NIC, UNDP, and other partners, the project aims to create a robust environment for fostering innovation in Vietnam.