The center is expected to serve as a strategic hub connecting state management agencies, universities, research institutes, enterprises, experts, and investors.
Delegates attend the launching ceremony of the Nghe An Open Techfest 2026. - (Photo: Phan Quynh)
The Nghe An Innovation Center in the central province of the same name was launched on October 20 at Vinh University, as part of the opening of the Nghe An Open Techfest 2026.
The center is expected to serve as a strategic hub connecting state management agencies, universities, research institutes, enterprises, experts, and investors. It will assist early-stage projects in accessing advanced technology, investment capital, and market opportunities, gradually fostering new enterprises and business models.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Thai Van Thanh, Vice Chairman of the Nghe An Provincial People’s Committee, highlighted science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation as key drivers to boost productivity, improve growth quality, and generate new economic value.
Nghe An has concretized this vision through tailored mechanisms and programs. On July 14, the Provincial People’s Council issued Resolution No. 16, outlining 22 specific support policies for science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation.
According to provincial leaders, Nghe An holds substantial startup potential across agriculture, maritime economy, tourism, culture, and education. Leveraging emerging technologies, artificial intelligence, and digital tools is projected to enhance local product value, expand market reach, and create fresh growth momentum.
To ensure efficient operations, Mr. Thanh requested the provincial Department of Science and Technology to finalize the organizational structure and operating mechanisms for the center.
He emphasized that the center’s performance must be evaluated through tangible outcomes, including the number of supported projects, transferred technologies, newly established startups, secured investments, and commercialized products.
Held from October 20 to 22 under the theme "Nghe An’s 10-Year Innovation Journey - Aspiration for Breakthroughs, Shaping the Future," Techfest Nghe An Open 2026 marks a decade of developing the province's startup ecosystem from 2016 to 2026.
The three-day festival features technology exhibitions, displays of high-potential startup projects, the Techfest pitch final, policy seminars combining startups with tourism development, investment matchmaking sessions, and an international conference on connecting scientific and technological potential to Nghe An.
Provincial leaders directed local departments and agencies to effectively implement support policies, strengthen coordination with academic and corporate partners, and facilitate access to expert networks, technology, capital, and markets.
Mr. Thanh stressed the importance of sustaining post-competition support for promising projects through mentorship, incubation, and investment connections, thereby translating creative ideas into practical business models for sustainable ecosystem development.