IDAP

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.
For any questions, please contact

Fanpage: https://www.facebook.com/kisstartup

Website: https://www.kisstartup.com/

Email: hello@kisstartup.com

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

Are you a student who loves the beauty of the Northwest, enjoys creativity, and wants your own visuals to spread far and wide? Hackathon 2: The Digital Creativity Challenge is your chance! Join the competition to showcase your talent and win amazing prizes!

EVENT TIMELINE:

• Launch: October 30, 2024 - November 6, 2024
• Interaction period: 12:00 a.m., November 7, 2024 - 5:00 p.m., November 9, 2024

ELIGIBILITY:
Students from universities and colleges in Lao Cai and Son La provinces.

CHALLENGE:
Create a video promoting agriculture, culture, cuisine, or tourism to showcase the beauty and richness of Lao Cai and Son La.

PARTICIPATION REQUIREMENTS:
Format:

• Participants will create a video to promote local imagery, covering themes like landscapes, people, cuisine, culture, or community activities.
• Videos should be uploaded on platforms such as YouTube, Facebook, or TikTok using the required competition hashtags.
• Submit your video and register via the LINK.

Video Requirements:

• Length: Maximum 5 minutes.
• Title and Description: Each video must have a title and a short description.
• No copyright violations: Ensure music, images, or content are not infringing copyright.
• Appropriate content: Content must align with cultural values and avoid violence, sensitive, or controversial subjects.
• Quality: Video should have clear visuals and sound.
• Language: Vietnamese; additional languages are encouraged to increase international reach.
• Logo: Must include the IDAP project logo – LINK.
• Hashtags: #IDAP #digital_transformation #digital_creativity_challenge.
• Scoring: Videos will be judged solely on total interaction counts (views, likes, shares, and comments) on TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube during the set Hackathon 2 interaction period.

ATTRACTIVE PRIZES AWAIT!

• Creative Peak Award (1,990,000 VND): For the video with the highest views (minimum 1000 views).
• Unique Discovery Award (1,000,000 VND): 2 awards for the most unique and creative videos.
• Touching Hearts Award (500,000 VND): 3 awards for videos that evoke special emotions.
• Shining Energy Award (200,000 VND): 5 awards for inspiring content.

Deadline to register and submit videos: Before 5:00 p.m., November 9, 2024.

Join now to express your unique style! Together, let’s create a wave of creativity with Lao Cai and Son La students, spreading beautiful images and the cherished values of our hometowns far and wide!

ABOUT IDAP
The "Inclusive Digital Transformation Ecosystem for SMEs" project in Lao Cai and Son La, funded by GREAT and implemented by KisStartup from 2024 to 2027, is part of the initiative to “Promote Gender Equality through Improved Economic Efficiency in Agricultural Production and Tourism Development” funded by the Australian Government.

About the Hackathon - Digital Creativity Challenge: An initiative by KisStartup to provide students a platform to showcase their creativity and share the beauty of Lao Cai and Son La through social media and digital tools. The competition will be held in multiple rounds, each with a 65-hour challenge. Eligibility: Students from universities and colleges in Lao Cai participating in the IDAP-KisStartup project.

For detailed information on the competition and winning entries, please visit:

• Website: kisstartup.com
• Email: hello@kisstartup.com
• Hotline: (+84) 869.190.704 (Mr. Dung)

       On the morning of September 6th, 2024, KisStartup successfully organized the launch event of the IDAP project - a project aimed at enhancing the inclusive digital transformation ecosystem for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), focusing on agriculture and tourism in Lao Cai and Son La provinces. The project is implemented within the framework of GREAT, an initiative funded by the Australian Government and managed by Cowater International. The event was attended not only by domestic and international experts but also by many businesses, individuals, and organizations interested in inclusive digital transformation, particularly in the two provinces of Lao Cai and Son La.

The event began with videos summarizing the results of phase 1 and introducing products and tourism in the Northwest region.

In the opening remarks, Mr. Roger Oakeley, Chief Advisor of the GREAT project and representative of the donor, emphasized the importance of enhancing the role of women in economic development through agriculture and tourism, while also promoting a sustainable ecosystem between local businesses. He pointed out that the project aims to understand the environmental and social barriers in business development, so that with the support of relevant stakeholders, these issues can be thoroughly addressed. Additionally, GREAT's market system approach will pose challenges but also offer opportunities for partners like KisStartup to expand their markets post-project.
Following the program, the CEO of KisStartup Joint Stock Company, Ms. Nguyễn Đặng Tuấn Minh, outlined the development direction and activities of the sub-project. She shared that the project focuses on three main aspects: "New Approach, New Methods, and Potential Cooperation Models," as well as introducing the basic concepts of the digital transformation process. During the program, the CEO of KisStartup also highlighted that digital human resources will be a crucial factor for achieving sustainable digital transformation, not only within the program’s framework but also in the long term. The IDAP program will not only help train and enhance the capacity of businesses but also collaborate with universities and colleges to offer hands-on guidance to students, expanding their job opportunities while helping schools develop qualified human resources that can contribute to the development of the local digital transformation ecosystem. Furthermore, she emphasized that achieving sustainable digital transformation requires support and cooperation from many parties, making the establishment of a collaborative network essential. KisStartup is proud to act as a bridge between businesses, universities, colleges, and service providers.

The program also included participation from partner businesses such as ezCloud. Representatives from businesses shared their experiences in collaboration, the solutions they could offer, and expressed their desire to support local enterprises not only within the project but also by reaching out to businesses that haven't had the opportunity to participate. Ms. Bùi Phương Thanh, a representative from Noong Pieu Cooperative in Son La, shared her experiences and the remarkable development of the cooperative during and after participating in the program. Starting as a small cooperative with a rare ruby plum variety sold in small quantities, the cooperative has since expanded its growing area and successfully exported to four markets.

In the final part of the program, businesses were guided on how to register to participate in the program, with commitments of support and direction for business development and inclusive digital transformation, along with a Q&A session. The event paid particular attention to addressing the needs of businesses, providing foundational knowledge on inclusive digital transformation, and supporting networking opportunities for business owners and operators. New potential initiatives were introduced, such as digital transformation combined with green transformation, with universities and colleges aiming to provide services and human resources tailored to business needs, all working towards the common goal of developing a sustainable ecosystem network. KisStartup sincerely thanks the participation of over 65 attendees and is committed to continuing to refine and support businesses facing challenges in digital and green transformation both within and beyond the project’s framework.
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For any inquiries, please contact: 
KisStartup Fanpage: https://www.facebook.com/kisstartup 
Website: https://www.kisstartup.com/ 
Email: hello@kisstartup.com 
Contact: (+84) 392.161.403 (Mr. Hieu)
 

ezCloud ensures that with just a smartphone, small homestay owners can connect and focus on welcoming guests while improving product and service quality. ezCloud will fully take care of sales operations, which is also the desire of small homestays. We have received significant interest from homestays and mixed agriculture-tourism businesses in Lao Cai and Son La.ezCloud ensures that with just a smartphone, small homestay owners can connect and focus on welcoming guests while improving product and service quality. ezCloud will fully take care of sales operations, which is also the desire of small homestays. We have received significant interest from homestays and mixed agriculture-tourism businesses in Lao Cai and Son La.
The connection event session for tourism businesses was successful, attracting over 50 businesses, with the goal of bringing optimal digital technology solutions for homestay and tourism businesses. The event provided an opportunity for businesses to access two of the industry's leading digital solutions: ezCloud and TripIn, platforms that not only optimize business operations but also significantly enhance customer experiences.

ezCloud – The No.1 Hotel Management Platform in Vietnam

ezCloud is Vietnam's leading hotel management platform, currently holding the largest market share. This solution is specially designed to serve various types of accommodation, from small hotels to homestay complexes to community homestay groups. Thanks to its comprehensive automated management system, homestay owners only need to focus on guest reception and providing the best experience, while all management processes, from booking, room status tracking, to revenue management, are handled by ezCloud intelligently and efficiently.
In particular, with the remote management feature via the mobile app, businesses can easily monitor and adjust their operations anytime and anywhere. This allows homestay owners to dedicate more time to improving service quality and customer care. Moreover, ezCloud integrates multiple features to connect with OTA (Online Travel Agency) channels, helping homestays expand their reach to international customers, increasing booking rates and revenue effectively.

TripIn – AI and AR Travel Application with Virtual Guides

TripIn is an advanced travel application that integrates AI and AR technology, providing tourists with unique travel experiences through virtual guides. Especially for homestay groups or complexes in areas rich in cultural and natural attractions, this application is a powerful tool for tourists to freely explore and experience.
With AR (Augmented Reality) technology, tourists can use TripIn to receive real-time information as they move to attractions, including cultural stories, historical insights, and other useful local information. The virtual guide on TripIn helps them explore every corner of the locality without the need for a traditional tour guide. This not only offers personalized experiences for tourists but also brings convenience and flexibility to travel businesses.
Additionally, TripIn uses AI technology to suggest travel itineraries that match the preferences of tourists, enhancing satisfaction and encouraging them to return or recommend the service to friends and family.

ezCloud and TripIn not only provide optimal management and travel experience solutions but also help small and medium tourism businesses, particularly homestays, to easily transition to digital operations, reduce operating costs, improve business efficiency, and offer unique travel experiences to guests.
This event marks a significant step in promoting digital transformation for tourism businesses in Vietnam. With the support of solutions like ezCloud and TripIn, homestay businesses can easily optimize their operations while delivering new and exciting experiences to their customers. This not only helps them compete more effectively in an increasingly competitive market but also contributes to enhancing the image and quality of local tourism.
Businesses, cooperatives, and homestays that need to connect with these solutions and receive support during the process, please contact KisStartup.

The networking event organized by KisStartup took place successfully, attracting the participation of more than 50 agricultural enterprises, cooperatives and business households in Lao Cai and Son La provinces. This event is an important step forward in promoting green transformation and improving management efficiency in the agricultural sector through technology solutions. In particular, the event highlighted the desire of local businesses to find solutions to help manage energy effectively, community cooperation investment, and increase product value.

Alterno – Energy storage sand battery technology

Alterno introduced sand battery technology solutions, helping to store and optimize the use of renewable energy. This technology is capable of meeting energy needs in production processes such as drying agricultural products and heating, especially suitable for the conditions of agricultural enterprises and cooperatives in Lao Cai and Son La. This is an important step forward in reducing dependence on traditional energy, contributing to the green transition in agricultural production.

BFD – Smart livestock management solution

BFD introduced smart livestock management solutions, with feed control systems and process automation. This technology not only helps livestock farmers optimize resources but also improve livestock performance, ensuring the quality and health of livestock. This automation reduces manual labor, saves costs and energy, and helps businesses better manage their resources.

Sac Moc Tinh – Environmentally friendly food production

Sac Moc Tinh introduced food production technology from agricultural by-products, helping to make the most of agricultural resources and minimize waste. This technology not only helps businesses produce sustainably but also brings environmentally friendly products, meeting the growing consumer demand for green, clean and safe products.

EGAP – Product management and traceability solution

EGAP provides product traceability management and monitoring services, supporting businesses to ensure transparency and compliance with traceability regulations. This solution helps improve reputation and product quality, meeting the requirements of domestic and international markets. The application of traceability also helps cooperatives and business households increase the value of their products, ensuring trust from customers and partners.

Through the networking event, agricultural businesses in Lao Cai and Son La had the opportunity to learn more about advanced technology solutions, helping them manage resources more effectively and promote sustainable development. Businesses show special interest in green transformation, using renewable energy and developing in a sustainable direction. In particular, many businesses want to invest in the form of community cooperation, sharing resources and knowledge to improve their competitiveness in the market.
In addition, adding value to products through solutions such as traceability, process automation and environmentally friendly production are also top priorities. Businesses see great potential in not only improving product quality but also creating sustainable value chains, serving the needs of both domestic and international markets.

This networking event has brought many opportunities for cooperation and transformation for businesses, cooperatives and agricultural businesses in Lao Cai and Son La. Applying technology solutions such as Alterno, BFD, Sac Moc Tinh and EGAP will help them not only optimize production operations but also move towards a more sustainable and green future. With the support of KisStartup and its partners, local agricultural businesses are on the path to strong transformation, enhancing value and competitiveness, while contributing to the comprehensive development of the local economy.