From Singapore's Experience to Viet Nam's Practice: A Public Sector Perspective on Innovation

April 13, 2026

Group of professionals posing for a photo in a modern showroom with displays behind them. — UNDP in Viet Nam

Within the framework of the the “Vitalizing the Viet Nam National Innovation Center” project funded by the Government of Japan and co-managed by UNDP and NIC, a delegation comprising public sector officials from NIC and the Ministry of Finance of Viet Nam participated in a study and experience exchange trip in Singapore from April 6-10, 2026.

The study trip focused on exploring models, policies, and practices that promote innovation within a context where the Government plays an enabling role, while effectively mobilizing resources and solutions from the private sector.

Through workshops with organizations such as Plug and Play, Stage One, NUS Enterprise & Block 71, One&Co, The GEAR, Panasonic R&D Center, JTC, and Google, the delegation gained a comprehensive understanding of how Singapore builds and operates its innovation ecosystem, emphasizing strong linkages across the public, private, and academic sectors.

“The trip was an inspiring journey of knowledge connection in the 'Lion City'. The itinerary was well-organized, striking a balance between learning and practical experience. Visiting and staying updated on the innovation and startup support programs of organizations such as Plug and Play, Block 71, and One&Co has brought valuable experience and networking opportunities for Viet Nam's innovation and startup ecosystem.”

Mr. Do Tien Thinh – Deputy Director of the Viet Nam National Innovation Center

“The Singaporean Government has leveraged innovation solutions from the private sector to apply them to the public sector. Additionally, they have flexible investment mechanisms for the private sector to promote innovation research, which includes developing solutions for the Government.”

Mr. Nguyen Duc Trung – Deputy Director, Department of Private Enterprise and Collective Economy Development, Ministry of Finance, shared from a policy perspective.

Circular tabletop miniature race track with cars and cityscape at a busy exhibition hall.

“I learned how their Government establishes and manages the smart city model, as well as how they develop the local ecosystem. I hope that the construction technologies and smart materials of Kajima Corporation (Japan) in Singapore can be transferred to Viet Nam, and that these researches can be localized.”

Mr. Vu Hoang Anh – Senior Official, Department of Local and Territorial Economy, Ministry of Finance, reflected regarding urban development and the local economy.

“I focused on studying and learning about their monitoring, detection, and warning systems to consider applying them to the Ministry of Finance's Data Center in Hoa Lac.”

Mr. Hoang Thanh – Deputy Head of the Public Services and Digital Content Division, Department of Information Technology and Digital Transformation, Ministry of Finance, noted in the field of digital infrastructure and data governance.

“The exchange and study trip on innovation in Singapore has provided me with a practical perspective on the innovation ecosystem and the methods Singapore is deploying to support startups. The delegation members listened to and discussed the difficulties, challenges, and opportunities for future cooperation, contributing to the building of a sustainable innovation ecosystem – which aligns perfectly with the Project's target. I sincerely appreciate the technical support that UNDP has been implementing in Viet Nam.”

Ms. Do Kim Dieu – Senior Official, Department of Debt Management and External Finance, Ministry of Finance, reflected on the overall trip.

Photo: Group of adults seated around tables in a bright classroom, watching a slide presentation. — UNDP in Viet Nam

Following the trip, participating officials will continue professional exchanges and foster technical cooperation, focusing on areas such as investment policies for innovation and smart city governance. This is considered a crucial step toward translating international lessons into policy solutions suitable for Viet Nam's context, contributing to the promotion of an inclusive and sustainable innovation ecosystem.

‘Vitalizing the Viet Nam National Innovation Center (NIC)’ project is funded by the Government of Japan and co-managed by UNDP and NIC. This collaborative initiative aims to enhance the innovation ecosystem, empowering Vietnamese businesses, particularly startups, to drive competitive growth, solve social challenges, and contribute to sustainable and inclusive economic growth. This initiative supports Viet Nam’s ambition to become a developed nation by 2045.

More about the project: https://vnic.nic.gov.vn/