IDAP

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!

In the previous article, we shared how digital transformation has led to the creation of new products and values, even from agricultural by-products that were once considered waste. This time, the story is about how digital transformation has helped create new services while preserving indigenous culture.

Experiencing Traditional Shuttlecock Making at Hà Khuyên Homestay

 

On our journey to explore the potential of digital transformation in Northwest Vietnam, we discovered a new story at Hà Khuyên Homestay in Bản Phụ Mẫu, Chiềng Yên Commune, Vân Hồ District, Sơn La Province. Known for its cozy accommodations, Hà Khuyên Homestay attracts both domestic and international tourists. In hosting guests, the homestay has curated local experiences such as tea-picking tours and visits to the traditional shuttlecock-making craft village of the White Thai people. Surprisingly, the shuttlecock-making tours have become particularly popular, marking the beginning of their digital transformation journey.

They "digitized" the shuttlecock-making process by capturing detailed photos and videos showcasing each step—from fabric selection, stitching, to decoration—and sharing this content on social media. They also organized online workshops about this craft for those who were interested but unable to participate in person.

Though still in its early stages, this digital transformation effort not only promoted a newly launched tour but also laid the foundation for a new business model centered on the vibrant traditional game of the White Thai people. The shuttlecocks, tetrahedral with brightly colored tassels, are thrown through a hoop standing 10 meters high during spring festivals as part of rituals for good fortune and prosperity—fascinating and engaging for spectators.

Hà Khuyên Homestay has since expanded beyond organizing tours and "classes" teaching shuttlecock-making. They received their first online order for shuttlecocks as gifts for Lunar New Year gift baskets. Additionally, they are improving their video production and storytelling skills to create online shuttlecock-making tutorials.

Looking ahead, they plan to broaden their customer base by selling shuttlecocks more widely as souvenirs, offering DIY shuttlecock-making kits online, and introducing other handcrafted products from local residents to increase household incom

Preserving Local Games and Music for Tourism

In the Shan Tuyet tea region, resources like the traditional Tay soccer game and then singing also have the potential to develop into new tourism business models. Soccer, once an integral part of Tay community life, has gradually faded away.

Unlike conventional soccer, Tay matches are played on freshly harvested rice paddies with rustic rules and brief intervals (each half may last only 10 minutes), featuring players in traditional attire.

With a desire to revive this tradition, Bản Liền has organized traditional Tay soccer matches between tourists and local teams. However, this unique sport remains largely unknown to many visitors.

Since these matches were digitized into videos shared on social media, things have changed. Vàng A Bình at Bản Liền Homestay has turned this experience into a service over the past several years. Tourists can buy tickets to watch the matches or join games with the locals. Simultaneously, Tay then singing in Bản Liền, supported by local authorities, is being developed into a performing arts troupe that showcases traditional songs. These performances are also being digitized to enrich the cultural experiences available to tourists.

Digital Transformation Unlocking Business Opportunities

Social media enables anyone, anywhere, to create content. Initially meant to promote a service or product, digital content can evolve into entirely new business models. The cultural activities of highland ethnic communities, when presented authentically and naturally, possess a unique charm that captivates audiences—even without elaborate editing or visuals.

This process of digital transformation opens up countless opportunities for tourism services and cultural experiences, inspiring and motivating local communities to preserve and protect their cultural values. 

Challenges on the Journey

However, this journey is not without obstacles. One prominent challenge is the fragmented recognition and exploitation of cultural uniqueness, which has not yet been fully translated into high-quality products or experiences. Many valuable cultural elements remain undefined, limiting their potential to attract tourists and generate economic value.

The digitization of content in local languages, combined with English, French, and other common languages, faces a significant shortage in both quality and quantity.

Even with the community’s co-creation efforts making digitization easier, pricing cultural experiences, targeting high-value customer segments, and fostering respect for indigenous cultures pose major challenges.

Additionally, local communities—custodians of vibrant cultural values—sometimes lack awareness of the potential digital transformation offers for heritage preservation and economic development. This lack of trust or understanding slows the adoption of technology and innovation, hindering the ability to leverage the unique cultural advantages of Northwest Vietnam. 

Empowering Cultural Heritage Through Technology

From an innovation and business development perspective, these barriers not only delay value realization but also increase costs and risks associated with digital transformation. This underscores the urgent need to empower local communities, enhancing their capabilities to identify, create, and digitize cultural values. Without overcoming these barriers, the potential to enhance value through digital transformation cannot be fully realized.

Lào Cai and Sơn La, with their cultural treasures ranging from majestic terraced fields to vibrant traditional festivals, are rich lands of potential in the digital era. Technologies such as virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and artificial intelligence (AI) can help recreate traditions and rituals, transforming folklore into engaging experiences for global visitors.

Just as Italy brings the ancient city of Pompeii to life through AR and Japan digitizes museums for virtual tours, Northwest Vietnam’s cultural heritage can also reach global audiences through similar technological tools. From Hmong khèn dances to the Thai Xòe festival, these cultural gems can transcend photos and become vivid experiences for tourists worldwide.

A Hopeful Future for Northwest Vietnam’s Digital Transformation

In this context, digital transformation is not merely a modern tool but a key to unlocking the latent power of cultural heritage. By digitizing cultural values for promotion and exploring new business models, the goal of sustainable preservation and development comes closer to reality. Stories like Hà Khuyên Homestay and Bản Liền affirm that in the digital era, culture can be an economic driver and identity can become a competitive advantage.

This journey is just beginning, but early successes light a bright path for the future of digital transformation in Northwest Vietnam.

In the digital space, which offers countless business opportunities but also harbors numerous hidden risks, the Avoiding Scams – Protecting Businesses in the Digital Space workshop, organized by the IDAP project, delivered invaluable lessons to businesses, cooperatives, and small enterprises in Lào Cai and Sơn La. With real-life stories and in-depth knowledge, this event was not just an informational session but a wake-up call about the threats lurking in the digital world.

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The Dangers of the Digital Space: Alarming Numbers

Vietnam is currently among the countries most heavily impacted by online scams. In 2023 alone, businesses and individuals in Vietnam suffered a staggering loss of $20 billion, accounting for more than one-third of global losses. The methods of fraud have become increasingly sophisticated and difficult to detect, especially in areas such as e-commerce, finance, and business partnerships.

The speakers painted a vivid picture of common scams, including brand impersonation, account hacking, and fake contract schemes. All these highlighted a troubling reality: no one, whether an individual or a business, is entirely immune to the risks of the digital space.

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Sophisticated Traps: When Deceivers Wear a “Trustworthy” Mask

One of the most surprising revelations during the workshop was the level of sophistication in impersonation schemes. Scammers do not hesitate to create fake websites and emails that perfectly mimic legitimate businesses, using them to collect sensitive information or demand money transfers. These tricks often target both businesses and consumers, exploiting trust for illicit gains.

Additionally, detailed analyses of fraud schemes involving impersonation of police officers, banks, and financial institutions were presented. Real-life stories shared during the event highlighted the severity of these actions and emphasized the need for vigilance in every online transaction.

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Knowledge as the Best Shield

A key message reiterated throughout the event was: knowledge is the strongest weapon for self-protection. The speakers provided specific guidance on how to verify information sources, identify fraud indicators, and implement effective security measures.

The event also encouraged attendees to share personal experiences, fostering an atmosphere of mutual learning. From stories of "close calls" to practical self-defense strategies, the workshop went beyond mere information dissemination, strengthening the business community’s resolve to create a safer digital environment.

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Reflections and Actions

The workshop concluded, but its lessons lingered. Faced with the growing threats of the digital age, every business and individual must equip themselves with the knowledge and skills needed to avoid becoming the next victim.

If you missed this event, don’t forget to follow IDAP’s upcoming programs. Let the insights from the workshop be your guide to safeguarding yourself and your business against the challenges ahead.

Have you ever encountered a scam? Don’t hesitate to share your story so the community can learn and stay alert together!

On December 19, 2024, the event "Building Local Specialty Brands on E-commerce Platforms", organized by the IDAP project, brought together over 40 small and medium enterprises, cooperatives, and household businesses—prioritizing those led by women and ethnic minority women—from Lào Cai and Sơn La provinces. This event was not only an opportunity for businesses to understand the "rules of the game" on major e-commerce platforms in Vietnam but also to grasp strategies for optimizing sales on Shopee and TikTok Shop.

E-commerce is not just about "posting products and waiting"

One of the key insights shared by Mr. Trần Lâm, the event’s speaker, revolved around a fundamental question: "Do you truly understand your customers on e-commerce platforms?" He emphasized that selling on Shopee is no longer a random endeavor. To succeed, businesses need to have a clear understanding of:

• Does the market have enough potential? For instance, products like buckwheat cakes have extremely low search volumes, making advertising campaigns an easy way to "burn money."

• What is your product's competitive advantage? How can local specialties avoid being overshadowed by cheap imports from China?

The story of "external traffic"

A standout highlight of the event was the speaker’s suggestion to leverage "external traffic" as a key to reducing advertising costs. Instead of spending heavily on Shopee ads, businesses can drive customers from TikTok or Facebook to their online stores. A TikTok video with a million views could replace tens of millions of Vietnamese đồng spent on internal platform ads. Lessons from successful businesses revealed that engaging content is truly a "golden tool."

Success is no coincidence

Mr. Trần Lâm also shared his own brand-building journey. His essential oil brand, focusing on practical applications, and his macadamia-based cosmetics brand have consistently evolved to meet market demands. The most valuable lesson he imparted was: "Deeply understand your product and tell a story that resonates with your customers."

A promising future for local specialties

From personal branding to integrating social commerce with e-commerce and optimizing costs, the event affirmed that local specialties can shine if businesses understand how to navigate the mechanics of e-commerce platforms.

The event has ended, but the opportunities are right in front of us. How will you begin telling the story of your local specialties?

On December 17, 2024, at the seminar “Directions and Solutions for Preserving and Promoting Rituals and Ritual Folk Songs of the Dao People in Vietnam in the Age of Industry 4.0” organized by the Lao Cai Branch of Thai Nguyen University and the Lao Cai General Museum under the framework of the Vingroup Project, Ms. Nguyễn Đặng Tuấn Minh, representing KisStartup, KisImpact, and the Business Incubator, delivered an important presentation on developing new business models based on cultural heritage, digital technology, and entrepreneurship.

Key Highlights of the Presentation

The presentation emphasized the role of new business models in creating and enhancing value from cultural heritage through the following key points:

• A business model is a way to create and capture value.
• A new business model is a method to generate new value and receive new returns.
• When applied to cultural heritage, the new business model includes:
  1. Refreshing current business models by enhancing value through cultural and heritage elements combined with digital technology.
  2. Developing entirely new business models based on cultural heritage, leveraging digital technology to create unique competitive advantages.

Vietnam's Global Potential

KisStartup highlighted Vietnam’s immense potential in combining cultural heritage with digital technology and entrepreneurship:

• Vietnam ranks 24th out of 89 countries for its richness in heritage (according to U.S. News & World Report).
• Vietnam ranks 56th in cultural influence worldwide.
• Vietnam ranks 43rd out of 89 countries for having a dynamic startup ecosystem.

With its rich cultural heritage and a rapidly developing startup ecosystem, Vietnam is well-positioned to pioneer the development of innovative and sustainable business models based on cultural heritage. This approach creates new values and enhances competitiveness in the Industry 4.0 era.

Under the IDAP Project (Inclusive Digital Acceleration Program) to enhance the inclusive digital transformation ecosystem in Lao Cai and Son La, KisStartup has also witnessed significant transformations in various business models during the digital transformation process.

The presentation by the representative of KisStartup, KisImpact, and the Business Incubator provided a new perspective and proposed many practical solutions for preserving and promoting cultural heritage, particularly that of the Dao people, and Vietnam in general. Integrating digital technology and entrepreneurial spirit into the cultural sector not only preserves traditional values but also creates sustainable and unique business opportunities for 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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Website: https://www.kisstartup.com/

Email: hello@kisstartup.com

Contact:(+84) 0392161403 (Mr. Hieu)