Hanoi University of Science and Technology (HUST) has many years of experience in developing a practical-based startup ecosystem, serving as a solid foundation for lecturers to initiate entrepreneurial activities and for students to confidently pursue their startup journeys. This ecosystem provides comprehensive support, from idea formation to product commercialization, based on modern laboratory infrastructure and an innovative environment closely integrated with academic training.
The university offers startup programs and competitions, encourages scientific research and innovation (R&D and innovation), and serves as a strong launchpad for student entrepreneurship.
Seeds of innovation often sprout from these very lecture halls.
The talent and STEM competencies of top-performing students entering HUST make them the primary drivers of the university’s innovation and startup ecosystem. Freshmen are empowered through learning, research, and practical application under the guidance of experienced lecturers. They begin shaping their future paths—whether as practical engineers, creative entrepreneurs, leading experts, or top scientists. Whoever they become, they will be the best versions of themselves!
Guided by this vision, students are encouraged to engage early in HUST’s modern research labs and are introduced to internship opportunities at reputable enterprises both domestically and internationally, allowing them to gain exposure to the technology and industrial markets.
Innovative ideas from students are tested through national and international competitions. These ideas receive support and investment connections from the HUST Innovation Startup Investment Fund (BK Fund). Furthermore, the Hanoi University of Science and Technology Technology Investment and Development Company (BK Holdings) continues to provide wings for these ideas by mobilizing funding sources from both inside and outside Vietnam, and supporting the commercialization of student-developed products.
In the new era of national prosperity, Resolution No. 57-NQ/TW dated December 22, 2024, issued by the Politburo, serves as the strategic compass guiding science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation to become foundational pillars for sustainable development, modernization, and international integration. Within this innovation ecosystem, every component—from pioneering lecturers to student entrepreneurs at Hanoi University of Science and Technology (HUST)—is constantly striving forward, generating strong impact and practical applications.
Innovation and entrepreneurship activities at the university have enabled students to accelerate success, engage earlier, and take ownership in technology development and product innovation, thereby contributing tangible value to society.
HUST as a Launchpad for Student Startups
At the end of 2023, HUST established the Student Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center to foster a culture of innovation, entrepreneurial spirit, and a supportive environment where student ideas can develop into practical, value-added solutions.
In 2024, the center organized various workshops and training courses on essential startup skills such as business planning, financial management, marketing, and pitching. It also collaborated with organizations and enterprises to deliver high-quality training programs to students.
Recently, in partnership with BK Holdings and the Office of Science and Technology, the center organized the seminar “Innovation Ecosystem and Student Entrepreneurship at HUST” and an incubation program for 15 projects—7 of which were student-led.
Two BK Startup Days, held in July and October 2024, attracted nearly 30 businesses and investment funds. As a result, the student-led project Awake Driver successfully established a startup and secured funding of VND 600 million, with VND 250 million disbursed in 2024.
In May 2024, HUST hosted the 41st Annual Student Scientific Research Conference, along with an exhibition of student research products. The student research topics spanned across six major areas: Data technology and intelligent systems; Sustainable energy and environment; Advanced materials; Health sciences and technologies; Applied natural sciences; and Social sciences and economics.
Notably, special focus was given to research in artificial intelligence (AI), smart factories and robotics, semiconductor materials and their industrial applications, sustainable energy and environment, and biomedical engineering.
Thanks to comprehensive improvements, the conference attracted nearly 1,400 students, with 438 research projects presented. Among these, 113 papers were published in reputable domestic and international journals and conferences; seven student research teams received top-level awards from the Ministry of Education and Training. Numerous other related programs were also organized.
These activities not only promote a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship among students but also contribute to building applied research capacity, enhancing university-industry collaboration, and developing a sustainable innovation ecosystem.
As of December 2024, HUST had 27 patent and utility solution applications accepted and 20 granted certificates. Compared to 2023, the number of accepted applications increased by 35%, and granted patents increased by 5.3%.
The university has also begun establishing affiliated research institutes aimed at developing technological products, fostering industry collaboration, and conducting interdisciplinary research. These efforts are paving the way for future spin-off companies.
Once again, HUST’s pioneering role in building an innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem has proven to be invaluable, making a positive contribution to the country’s socio-economic development.
Source: National Agency for Science and Technology Information and Statistics
