Vietnam Launches NIC Scale X Accelerator to Boost 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, has launched the NIC Scale X program. Announced on January 14, 2026, this initiative aims to enhance Vietnam’s innovation ecosystem and foster the growth of high-potential startups across various technology sectors.

NIC Scale X is part of the project “Vitalizing the Viet Nam National Innovation Center,” funded by the Government of Japan. This program will create a multi-stakeholder environment at the NIC in Hoa Lac, uniting startups, investors, corporate partners, academic institutions, and government entities. The initiative seeks to address scalability challenges faced by early-stage deep tech startups and promote 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.” He noted that the initiative would not only support startups but also strengthen connections between technology development, investment, and practical deployment.

The program spans 13 weeks and focuses on deep tech solutions in areas such as healthcare, clean energy, smart factories, agritech, the Internet of Things (IoT), and digital infrastructure. Approximately 80% of the participating startups will be Vietnamese, with 20% from Japan, facilitating bilateral knowledge exchange and technology collaboration.

Startup selection will undergo a structured, multi-stage process. Participants will receive tailored mentorship, expert-led workshops, and hands-on support to enhance their business models, operational strategies, and investment readiness for the Vietnamese and Southeast Asian markets.

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 highlighted the commitment to providing exclusive access to corporate networks and insights into Japanese technology and investment.

The program’s objectives extend beyond commercial success. It emphasizes impact-driven innovation aligned with Vietnam’s national science and technology priorities and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Through specialized workshops and mentor-sharing sessions, NIC Scale X aims to build long-term capacity within the ecosystem by enhancing startup knowledge in areas like intellectual property, taxation, and regulatory frameworks.

Mike Maceda, Director of Corporate Partnerships and Open Innovation Services APAC at Plug and Play, stated, “This collaboration highlights the power of public-private partnerships in accelerating innovation.” He added that the program’s international reach will connect talent, customers, and investment, equipping founders with the necessary knowledge to build sustainable businesses.

NIC Scale X is poised to contribute significantly to developing a more connected, investment-ready, and globally competitive deep tech startup ecosystem in Vietnam. Applications for the accelerator program are open from January 14 to February 27. Interested parties can apply through the NIC website.

The “Vitalizing the Viet Nam National Innovation Center” project addresses critical development challenges in Vietnam’s innovation ecosystem, including limited access to capital, stakeholder fragmentation, and skills gaps. It is co-implemented by NIC, UNDP, and various ecosystem partners.

The Vietnam National Innovation Center, operating under the Ministry of Finance, serves as a hub for fostering innovation and enhancing Vietnam’s startup and venture investment landscape. It connects a robust network of domestic and international venture capital investors, promoting innovation-led investment to support sustainable economic growth.

The UNDP works in over 170 countries to eradicate poverty and reduce inequality, collaborating closely with the Vietnamese government since 1978 to expand opportunities for all citizens.

Mitsubishi Research Institute provides research and consulting services globally, focusing on sustainability and societal challenges. Plug and Play connects startups with various stakeholders, operating in over 60 locations worldwide to drive innovation.

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