Lao Cai (VNA) – A forum on promoting innovative startups in Lao Cai province was held on October 25 in Bac Ha commune, gathering nearly 200 women and youth entrepreneurs, collectives, and enterprises from Lao Cai and Phu Tho provinces.
The event was jointly organised by the Lao Cai Women’s Union, the provincial Department of Science and Technology, Aide et Action (AEA), and the Centre for Gender, Family and Environment in Development. It forms part of the EU-, AFD-, and L’Oréal Foundation–funded project “Promoting Career and Business Development for Youth and Women".
The forum emphasised innovation as a key driver to unlock Lao Cai’s potential in organic agriculture, eco-tourism, digital transformation, and the green economy.
According to Dinh Minh Ha, President of the Lao Cai provincial Women’s Union, the event fostered creativity, strengthened linkages, and promoted women’s and youth’s roles in sustainable economic growth. It also supports Vietnam’s national strategy to build an innovative startup ecosystem by 2025, reinforcing Lao Cai’s ambition to become a regional startup hub.
AEA Country Representative Nguyen Thi Tu highlighted that women and youth in mountainous areas are sources of inspiration for innovation and growth.
She affirmed AEA’s commitment to continue working with Lao Cai and partners to create more opportunities for entrepreneurship and livelihood development.
Under the theme “fostering Lao Cai’s startup ecosystem and incubation networks,” participants exchanged ideas on digital-era entrepreneurship, artificial intelligence, investment mobilisation, and branding strategies. Successful local models were showcased, including OCOP products, community-based tourism, and startups using indigenous herbs.
The forum also featured a talk show on opportunities and challenges for women entrepreneurs, a job fair, and an exhibition of local agricultural products and employment opportunities.
At the closing session, five outstanding business models were honoured. Organisers pledged to continue connecting innovative local projects with investors, enterprises, and startup funds to support long-term, inclusive growth./.
