Center for Ethnology and Cultural-based Economy (ECE) – Trung tâm Nghiên cứu Dân tộc học và Kinh tế dựa trên Văn hóa – was established by KisImpact as a new initiative aimed at connecting cultural heritage with innovation in local economic development.
With the mission of promoting business models rooted in indigenous knowledge and cultural values, ECE plays an important role in researching, preserving, and creatively leveraging traditional cultural assets. The center also supports local communities in achieving sustainable economic development. ECE works closely with ethnic communities, artisans, researchers, startups, and businesses to implement applied research programs, training, mentorship, and market linkage initiatives.
We are honored to officially introduce the center’s logo on the occasion of the 10th anniversary of KisStartup. The logo is rich in cultural symbolism, featuring the stylized initials “ECE”: the two letters “E” are designed with geometric shapes inspired by traditional motifs of ethnic minorities, using a golden hue to evoke a sense of enlightenment and warmth; the central letter “C” resembles a cross-section of wood – symbolizing cultural depth, accumulated knowledge, and intergenerational connection. Positioned directly beneath the logo is the slogan: “Innovating from Cultural Roots”, which clearly conveys the center’s core mission – driving innovation from cultural foundations to generate sustainable value for communities and society.
Throughout its operation, ECE has initiated various projects that integrate ethnology, innovation, and local economic development. The center collaborates with both domestic and international organizations to conduct research, apply and transfer knowledge, and foster a new generation of young researchers and communities of practice. These efforts aim to preserve, revitalize, and spread cultural values through creative economic models.