Supporting and Leveraging the Role of Universities in the Innovative Startup Ecosystem

The collaboration, cooperation, and enhancement of training and incubation activities at universities and educational institutions are actively being implemented. Through this, the role of universities, a crucial element in building and developing the innovative startup ecosystem in Da Nang, is being emphasized.

Supporting and Enhancing the Role of Universities in the Innovative Startup Ecosystem

The Department of Science and Technology in Da Nang has implemented various programs and activities to support incubation centers within universities in the city. In line with the "Supporting the National Innovative Startup Ecosystem by 2025" project for the 2022-2025 period, as outlined in Plan No. 216/KH-UBND dated December 21, 2021, by the People's Committee of Da Nang City, the Department of Science and Technology assigned the Da Nang Startup and Innovation Support Center to carry out scientific and technological tasks in 2023. This includes the mission of "Supporting Innovative Startup Activities" aimed at improving the effectiveness of incubation centers within colleges, universities, and other incubation facilities in Da Nang.

The Da Nang Startup and Innovation Support Center has conducted various activities, such as gathering information and surveying the needs for establishing incubation centers at startup support units and incubators. They have also organized training programs and managed the operation and development of these incubation centers.

In early December 2023, the center organized the "Management and Development of Incubation Centers in Universities and Colleges in Da Nang" program. This event involved the participation of universities, colleges, incubation centers, innovation spaces, and other entities and individuals with relevant interests in the city. Mr. Vo Duc Anh, Deputy Director of the Da Nang Startup and Innovation Support Center, mentioned that in 2022, the center assisted in establishing incubation centers at Dong A University and the College of Economics - Da Nang Plan. The introduction of startup incubation spaces within academic institutions has provided favorable conditions for effective management and vibrant entrepreneurial activities, contributing significantly to the overall development of the city's startup ecosystem.

Following these achievements, in 2023, the center selected the University of Science and Technology - Da Nang University as the next institution with the necessary human and material resources to support the "Building Profiles, Operating Procedures, and Regulations for Establishing Scientific and Technological Business Incubators." This initiative is expected to be completed by December 2023.

The establishment of these incubation centers has proven to be highly effective in developing the innovative startup ecosystem in Da Nang. For instance, in August 2023, the Innovation Space (Dong A Innovation Space), under the Da Nang University Startup and Innovation Center, became the Hub (connecting center) of the Creative Students' Village for universities and colleges in Da Nang. Mr. Luong Minh Sam, Chairman of the University Council and Director of the Startup and Innovation Center at Dong A University, emphasized the significant role played by the Innovation Space in enhancing the quality of education. It provides a practical learning environment that stimulates innovative thinking and entrepreneurship for both students and faculty.

In summary, the proactive establishment of incubation centers within academic institutions has generated positive outcomes, fostering innovation, and creating a conducive environment for startup development in Da Nang. These initiatives aim to produce a new generation of innovative talents, meet societal and business needs, and build a robust and sustainable entrepreneurial ecosystem in the region.