Australia

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

Within the framework of the IDAP Project - Enhancing the Digital Transformation Ecosystem in Lào Cai and Sơn La, we invite small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and business households to register for the program supporting the use of digital transformation and digital workforce solutions.

The program aims to connect businesses with reputable digital transformation solution providers and partially fund the implementation, helping businesses quickly deploy efficient digitalization tools in their operations. This pilot program also seeks to identify high-quality service and solution providers to support local businesses in their digital transformation efforts.

Eligibility

• SMEs and business households in Lào Cai and Sơn La currently participating in the IDAP Advanced Training Program.
• Must have clear needs for digital transformation solutions (services, software, or hardware).
• Commit to cost-sharing and continuing to use digital transformation services after the support program concludes.
• Businesses NOT PARTICIPATING in the IDAP Training Program will only receive connection support, not financial assistance.

Participation Conditions

• Digital Transformation Solutions:

Includes services, software, and hardware that facilitate digital transformation.
Must fall within the scope of eligible funding.

• Cost-Sharing by Businesses:

A partial cost-sharing contribution is required, with the percentage notified upon successful registration.

• Commitment to Long-Term Use:

Businesses must commit to continuing to use the service and self-finance costs after the support ends.

How to Join

• Fill out the registration form: [HERE]
• Registration deadline: December 5, 2024

Our Commitment

• Verify your business information and needs.
• Connect you with suitable digital solution providers.
• Notify you of the funding support ratio and your cost-sharing portion.

Benefits of Participation

• Partial financial support to ease initial costs.
• Direct connection with suitable digital transformation solution providers.
• Opportunities to enhance competitiveness and business efficiency through technology adoption.

Contact for Support

• Hotline: (+84) 0392161403 (Mr. Hieu)
• Email: hello@kisstartup.com
• Fanpage: https://www.facebook.com/idapvietnam

1. Program Objectives
The program seeks to identify and honor innovative solutions across three key areas: digital transformation services, digital workforce services, and digital transformation for sustainable communities. Through this contest, SMEs can access professional services to tackle real business challenges, foster comprehensive digital transformation, and promote community and sustainable values.

2. Eligible Participants

• SMEs: Businesses needing digital transformation can submit specific challenges related to digital transformation, digital workforce, or sustainable community initiatives.
• Digital Transformation Service Providers: Organizations, companies, or experts offering technological solutions such as data management, process digitization, automation, and operational optimization.
• Digital Workforce Service Providers: Organizations, companies, or experts specializing in digital workforce development, including technology skills training, digital HR management, and employee upskilling.

3. Contest Process

• Step 1: Submission of Challenges by SMEs

SMEs submit specific challenges in digital transformation, workforce solutions, or sustainable community initiatives, aiming to improve business performance or contribute to sustainability. The challenges should clearly define the company's needs and expectations.

• Step 2: Registration and Participation of Service Providers

Service providers or sustainable community innovators choose one of the following categories to participate:

Digital Transformation Services
Digital Workforce Services
Digital Transformation for Sustainable Communities
Participants select suitable challenges, propose solutions, and submit detailed proposals.

• Step 3: Evaluation and Awards

Judges will evaluate solutions based on feasibility, alignment with SME needs, and innovation. Each category will award prizes to the most outstanding solutions.

4. Categories and Prizes

• Category: Digital Transformation Services

Participants: Providers of digital transformation services, such as data management, process digitization, and business automation.
Prizes: 10 awards of 6 million VND each, to be used for providing services to the selected SMEs. Winners must submit expense reports, invoices, and acceptance documents from SMEs.

• Category: Digital Workforce Services

Participants: Providers of digital workforce solutions, such as technology skills training and employee upskilling.
Prizes: 8 awards of 5 million VND each, under the same conditions as above.

• Category: Digital Transformation for Sustainable Communities

Participants: SMEs with initiatives or projects positively impacting communities, promoting environmental sustainability, or preserving local cultural values.
Prizes: 8 awards of 5 million VND each, to be used for implementing the proposed projects, with required expense documentation.

5. Participation Process

• For SMEs:

Register and submit challenges via an online form (LINK) or email hello@kisstartup.com. Clearly outline specific challenges and expectations.

• For Service Providers:

Choose a category (Digital Transformation, Workforce Solutions, or Sustainable Communities), select relevant challenges, and submit proposals, including detailed descriptions, implementation plans, and service quotes, through the registration link.
 

6. Timeline

• SME challenge submission deadline: December 5, 2024
• Service provider registration and proposal submission deadline: December 5, 2024

7. Contact Information

• Fanpage: KisStartup Facebook
• Website: KisStartup
• Email: hello@kisstartup.com
• Phone: (+84) 0392161403 (Mr. Hiếu)

An Event within the IDAP Project

On the morning of December 27, 2024, the workshop “Impact Investment for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises in Agriculture and Tourism” was held online, attracting a wide range of businesses and cooperatives from various fields such as agriculture, tourism, and manufacturing. The event was organized by KisStartup within the framework of the IDAP project – the next phase of the GREAT project funded by the Australian Government, aiming to support small businesses and cooperatives in improving their access to investment capital.

The workshop began with an introduction by Ms. Nguyễn Đặng Tuấn Minh, CEO of KisStartup and program coordinator. The main speaker, Mr. Keith Ippel – CEO of Spring Activator and an international expert in impact investment – shared in-depth insights and inspired attending businesses.

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Overview: Impact Investment and Opportunities in Vietnam

In the opening session, Ms. Nguyễn Đặng Tuấn Minh introduced the concept of impact investment – a form of investment aimed at generating financial returns alongside positive social or environmental impacts. Ms. Minh emphasized that in Vietnam, impact investment is creating significant opportunities, particularly in areas like sustainable agriculture, community-based tourism, and creative industries. With the rapid development of small businesses and cooperatives, accessing investment not only brings financial benefits but also promotes critical social values.

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Fundraising Strategies: Trust Is the Key

In the following session, Mr. Keith Ippel guided businesses on building effective fundraising strategies. According to him, trust is the key to convincing investors. Businesses need to clearly present a robust business plan, maintain financial transparency, and demonstrate their ability to create sustainable social or environmental impact. He also noted that businesses should meticulously prepare financial forecasts and develop two scenarios – optimistic and cautious – to prove their viability in different situations.

Additionally, Mr. Keith introduced potential funding sources, including personal savings, family and friends, current revenue, grants, and loans. He particularly encouraged businesses to explore support funds from international organizations or experiment with crowdfunding – funding channels suitable for small businesses and cooperatives in their early development stages.

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Engaging Interaction with Practical Challenges

Engaging Interaction with Practical Challenges

During the Q&A session of the workshop "Impact Investment for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises in Agriculture and Tourism," expert Keith shared crucial strategies to help businesses build sustainability and attract investors. When asked about balancing sustainability with social impact, Keith emphasized that sustainability must come first, as social impact can only thrive when a business is stable. Regarding expanding tourism products, he suggested businesses seek funding through crowdfunding or funds like Visa Vietnam.

Keith also shared methods for identifying ideal customers and creating positive experiences, advising businesses to thoroughly research customer demographics and behavior. When asked about cultural organizations, he mentioned seeking funding from family funds and private organizations, with detailed and convincing plans for investors. On standing out to investors, Keith recommended businesses practice presentations and craft compelling stories about their development journey.

A seafood farming cooperative shared difficulties in meeting collateral requirements for loans. In response, Mr. Keith suggested they approach grant funds from international organizations or try crowdfunding campaigns to reduce collateral pressure.

He also cited examples of successful businesses from simple ideas, emphasizing that sustainable development comes from clear vision and strategy. Finally, Keith shared that to access bank loans, businesses need detailed business plans and clear financial forecasts to build trust with investors. His advice provided practical strategies for small and medium businesses to confidently develop and attract investments.

A cultural expert inquired about funding or support for digitizing cultural heritage. Keith suggested important funding sources that could be utilized, including purchasing digitized data to serve their customers in the Canadian market. There are also funds specifically for culture, which can support not only tourism businesses but also create new business models.

When asked about developing local investors and promoting the local ecosystem, Keith stated that the most crucial factor is building trust among each other, including experienced and less experienced entrepreneurs. Inspiring investors with your story is essential.

Regarding leading a community to attract investment and development, Keith pointed to global examples like Chiwis and Bazerdan, highlighting the importance of trust, leveraging each member's strengths to complement one another, and setting a collaborative plan. More importantly, the community must have a business-minded leader with sales capabilities to guide everyone toward collective development.

When asked whether businesses creating jobs in the poorest areas can attract investment, the answer was a resounding yes, as these efforts generate employment in the places that need it most.

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Next Steps

At the end of the workshop, the speakers recommended specific steps for participants to increase their chances of successful fundraising. Practicing presentations, building detailed business plans and financial forecasts, and investing in a compelling brand story will enhance a business's appeal to investors. Additionally, businesses need to clearly identify their unique selling points to establish sustainable competitive advantages.

The organizers provided an online form for participants to register for additional materials and personalized support from the program's experts.

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Conclusion: Seizing Opportunities from Impact Investment

The workshop “Impact Investment for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises in Agriculture and Tourism” delivered practical knowledge and opened new perspectives on sustainable investment trends in Vietnam. The program not only provided small businesses and cooperatives with access to new knowledge but also helped them identify clear long-term development paths.

Follow the IDAP project and KisStartup to continue participating in meaningful and valuable programs in the future!

Within the framework of the IDAP project - Enhancing the inclusive digital transformation ecosystem, we have witnessed a typical example of utilizing agricultural by-products to increase revenue through digital transformation. The cooperation between Tan Xuan 269 Cooperative and Sac Moc Tinh Company has demonstrated this. 

Tan Xuan 269 Cooperative produces and turns discarded bamboo leaves into unique bamboo leaf tea products. After being processed, the bamboo leaves have a natural green color, light yellow tea water and the characteristic aroma of pandan leaves. The product not only retains its valuable uses such as cooling, reducing fever and supporting the treatment of respiratory diseases, but also opens up a new source of revenue for the Cooperative. The product will be sold directly on e-commerce platforms, creating jobs for people in Son La. Utilizing this by-product not only helps reduce waste but also creates job opportunities for local workers. Jobs such as harvesting bamboo leaves, sorting, drying and packaging are suitable for many subjects, especially women, people with disabilities and manual workers. This is proof of the application of digital transformation in agriculture, helping to increase economic value and promote gender equality and social integration. The success story of Tan Xuan 269 Cooperative and Sac Moc Tinh Company clearly demonstrates the power of turning agricultural by-products into new products. However, to bring products to market, digital transformation will be a potential direction. This initial success not only motivates us but also affirms our commitment to connecting and supporting Cooperatives and businesses. We believe that digital transformation needs to start from digital business innovation, business model innovation first, finding new values, increasing revenue streams. From there, businesses can find opportunities from digital transformation. This journey has just begun, and we will continue to accompany partners to turn challenges into opportunities, building a comprehensive digital transformation ecosystem in Lao Cai and Son La.

ABOUT IDAP PROJECT
The project "Strengthening the Inclusive Digital Transformation Ecosystem for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs)" in Lao Cai and Son La, sponsored by GREAT, implemented by KisStartup Joint Stock Company from 2024 to 2027. IDAP belongs to the initiative "Promoting Gender Equality through Improving Economic Efficiency of Agricultural Production and Tourism Development" in Lao Cai and Son La, sponsored by the Australian Government.
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