Empowering Youth to Pioneer Innovation and Digital Economy Development
As science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation increasingly become key drivers of economic growth, young people are expected to take a pioneering role in technological research, application, and the development of new business models. With their ability to rapidly embrace emerging technologies, creative thinking, and entrepreneurial aspirations, the younger generation is well-positioned to address real-world challenges, contribute to the digital economy, and strengthen national competitiveness.
This direction is also aligned with the Youth Entrepreneurship Support Programme for 2022–2030, approved by the Prime Minister under Decision No. 897/QD-TTg. The Programme emphasizes strengthening entrepreneurial capabilities and supporting young people in establishing and developing businesses driven by science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation.
However, transforming innovative ideas into commercially viable products and services requires comprehensive support in business management, financing, technology, human resources, and market access. Strengthening cooperation between young entrepreneurs, businesses, research institutes, universities, and startup support organizations is therefore essential to improving the feasibility, competitiveness, and long-term sustainability of youth-led ventures.
In response to these practical needs, the Forum “Youth Pioneering Innovation and the Digital Economy” will be held within the framework of TECHFEST Vietnam 2026. Hosted by the Central Committee of the Ho Chi Minh Communist Youth Union, in coordination with the Ministry of Science and Technology and relevant agencies and organizations, the event is expected to bring together approximately 200 delegates. Participants will include representatives of central and local authorities, enterprises, investment funds, experts, scientists, educational institutions, startup support organizations, young entrepreneurs, students, and youth-owned innovative startups.
Through this Forum, the Organizing Committee seeks to create an enabling environment for young people to exchange ideas, showcase innovative models and products, and share practical entrepreneurial experiences. The event will also facilitate discussions on the opportunities and challenges associated with establishing and growing businesses, contributing to a broader shift from entrepreneurship promotion movements toward substantive, results-oriented initiatives that generate tangible economic and social value.
Connecting Resources and Turning Innovative Startup Ideas into Reality
The Forum will feature a series of presentations and panel discussions focusing on the essential conditions for young entrepreneurs to transform innovative ideas into competitive businesses. The programme will begin with a keynote speech entitled “Youth Innovative Startups – From Idea to Enterprise”, highlighting the importance of connecting entrepreneurial aspirations with implementation capabilities, technological applications, and market development.
Building on this foundation, three thematic presentations will explore innovative startup trends and opportunities for the younger generation in the new phase, share practical experiences in establishing and developing youth-led startups, and examine the roles of capital, technology, and market access in entrepreneurial success. Particular attention will be given to the challenges young entrepreneurs face, along with potential solutions to improve resource accessibility, strengthen partnerships, and support business expansion.
Following the presentations, the panel discussion “Youth Entrepreneurship - From Movement to Substance, From Idea to Company” will bring together experts, business representatives, investors, and young entrepreneurs for an in-depth exchange of perspectives. The discussion will focus on identifying barriers to startup development and exploring practical support mechanisms to help young entrepreneurs refine their business models, strengthen management capabilities, and bring innovative products and solutions to market.
A key highlight of the Forum will be a showcase featuring standout youth-led innovative projects and startups. This session will provide young entrepreneurs with opportunities to present their products, technologies, and business models to enterprises, investment funds, and startup support organizations, facilitating potential investment partnerships, business cooperation, and market expansion beyond TECHFEST. An interactive Q&A session will further enable delegates to exchange practical insights, identify emerging needs, and propose solutions to enhance the effectiveness of youth entrepreneurship support initiatives.
As one of the thematic events of TECHFEST Vietnam 2026, the Forum will contribute to strengthening connections among stakeholders in the innovative entrepreneurship ecosystem while promoting the application of technology to real-world needs and market opportunities. By facilitating dialogue, knowledge sharing, and resource mobilization, the event is expected to inspire young people to take a more active role in innovation, turn entrepreneurial ideas into viable ventures, and develop high-potential businesses, thereby making meaningful contributions to Vietnam’s digital economy and innovative entrepreneurship ecosystem.
