Latest news with #NationalInnovationAgency
Malay Mail
4 days ago
- Business
- Malay Mail
NIA Invites the Nation to Embrace ‘Impactful Innovation' — Adapt, Transform, Create, Add Value, and Generate Positive Impact to Drive Thailand Forward
Dr. Krithpaka Boonfueng, Executive Director of the National Innovation Agency (NIA) Redefining "Impactful Innovation" Through the Lens of Thailand's Innovation Leaders Groom: Cultivating and nurturing innovation capacity Cultivating and nurturing innovation capacity Grant: Providing funding to bring ideas to life Providing funding to bring ideas to life Growth: Unlocking market access and investment channels Unlocking market access and investment channels Global: Scaling into the international arena The Power of Innovation: Driving Thailand's Economy and Society Forward The Future of Thai Innovation BANGKOK, THAILAND - Media OutReach Newswire - 25 July 2025 - In a rapidly evolving world marked by unprecedented technological advancements, shifting consumer behaviors, and unpredictable global economic changes, relying on outdated thinking is no longer viable. Adaptability and creativity have become essential attributes for every country seeking to thrive in the modern 'innovation' is more than a buzzword, it is embedded in our daily lives and plays an increasingly prominent role in national development. Countries that have succeeded in the modern economy share a common foundation: strategic investment in 'Impactful Innovation' that improves lives, enriches society, and drives tangible economic the heart of 21st-century development lies innovation that is not just "usable" but must also "have an impact." Today, Thailand stands at a crucial crossroads between being merely a consumer of foreign technology and becoming a country capable of producing, creating, and exporting its own "Impactful Innovations."explains that genuine innovation is not simply about introducing new ideas or trendy products. In the business context, innovation means adaptation, identifying new opportunities, responding to evolving consumer needs, and securing competitive advantages. It must be actionable, value-driven, and capable of generating widespread positive matters is not merely whether a product sells, but whether it can be scaled to create economic and social value across a broad spectrum. In today's consumer-centric world, people are dictating the direction of product and service development. Personalization and niche segmentation have overtaken mass production, with increasing demand for specialized products from health-focused functional foods to nutrition tailored for the elderly and patients with specific medical needs.'Impactful Innovation' therefore refers to innovation that creates meaningful transformation in quality of life, economy, society, or environment, and can spark profound structural navigate this transformation, NIA plays a critical role in positioning Thailand as an 'Innovation Nation,' acting as a Focal Conductor across both policy and practice. The agency supports innovative entrepreneurs from startups and SMEs to social and community enterprises in developing innovations that yield positive and sustainable outcomes for the economy and '4G Strategy' offers a comprehensive framework:This pathway is designed to take innovations from conceptualization through to problem-solving, expansion, and long-term growth. The agency places strong emphasis on national strategic industries from EV and green technologies to health tourism, functional foods, and the creative economy, all of which hold immense potential to generate positive and far-reaching the goal is not merely to increase the number of innovators, but to foster innovation of real quality that delivers measurable social, economic, and environmental impact from local communities to the global has seen several outstanding examples of impactful innovation. One such achievement is the globally recognized 'Klaeng Din' (Artificial Soil Acidity) innovation, developed under the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej's Royal Initiative. Designed to rehabilitate acid sulphate soils through a carefully managed water and lime treatment process, this method transformed unproductive land into fertile farmland, a breakthrough technology with no precedent in tropical regions nationally transformative innovation is PromptPay, Thailand's digital payment infrastructure. By enabling fast and secure transfers using a national ID number, phone number, or bank account, PromptPay has not only simplified daily transactions but also improved the government's delivery of welfare payments and financial support. It is now a key pillar of Thailand's transition to a cashless efforts to cultivate impactful innovation have yielded promising results in recent years. For instance, MuvMi, a Thai electric Tuk-Tuk startup, was developed to reduce environmental pollution and has since evolved into a public mobility platform with private-sector example is 'Pinto Roi Sai' from the community of Tamot, Phatthalung, a grassroots innovation blending local food culture and tourism. This initiative invites visitors to experience authentic Southern Thai cuisine prepared by locals using seasonal, pesticide-free ingredients, creating value through culture, sustainability, and community income is now beyond doubt that innovation is a driving force behind Thailand's future. Promoting innovation with a measurable, positive impact is both a compelling challenge and a critical national mission. In this volatile and uncertain global landscape, building the country's capacity to compete and adapt is ultimate vision is to steer Thailand toward becoming an 'Innovation Nation.' Through integrated mechanisms and collaborative ecosystems, the agency connects relevant stakeholders and empowers innovators seamlessly. It is working to strengthen partnerships across the private sector, universities, science parks, and regional agencies ensuring that innovation infrastructure is accessible to all, and that innovation outputs are effectively scaled to achieve lasting societal Thailand moves forward, impactful innovation will not only shape our economy but redefine our place in the #NIA #NationalInnovationAgency The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Bangkok Post
22-07-2025
- Business
- Bangkok Post
Wellness targeted as key to growth
Thailand can use opportunities in the medical and wellness sector to deal with the domestic economy, which has experienced a slow pace of growth amid economic uncertainties this year. The country can take advantage of medical and wellness tourism, medical manufacturing as well as elderly care solutions to drive the economy, says international trade organiser Messe Düsseldorf Asia. These three areas are projected to drive an average annual market expansion of 5.5-7% domestically, with exports expected to grow by 6.5-7.5% a year. "Thailand has emerged as one of Southeast Asia's key strategic locations for medical innovations, driven by strong government support, a growing local industry and increasing international collaboration," said See Lay Eng, Messe Düsseldorf Asia's portfolio director for Medicare Asia. Asean has become a significant hub for medical and wellness tourism, with Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore serving as leading providers. These countries are able to attract medical tourists through affordable treatment options, with internationally recognised standards and holistic care approaches. In Thailand, the medical tourism market was valued at more than US$433 million in 2024 and its compound annual growth rate is expected to stand at 15%, thereby reaching a market value of $1.3 billion by 2035, said Ms See. The domestic medical device market is forecast to grow by 7% annually, while exports are projected to rise by 7.5%, reflecting Thailand's role as a leading exporter in Asean. Key areas of strength include consumables, diagnostic equipment and rehabilitation devices. Ms See was speaking as her company, in collaboration with state agencies, prepares to hold the 2025 Medical Fair Thailand later this year. The three-day event, to commence on Sept 10 at the Bangkok International Trade & Exhibition Centre, is aimed at showcasing advanced technologies in the medical fields and promote business matching through both online and offline negotiations. The National Innovation Agency is helping local businesses, including startups, to develop medical technologies. "Up to 70% of our financial assistance is given to startups, with the remaining 30% going to small and medium-sized enterprises," said Krithpaka Boonfueng, executive director at the National Innovation Agency. Despite attempts to boost locally-made technologies, Thailand still depends heavily on the importation of medical devices and technologies worth over 60 billion baht a year, said Termsak Sirikirin, director of the National Metal and Materials Technology Centre. The problem is attributed to low investment in R&D as well as inadequate support systems, he said.
Bangkok Post
04-07-2025
- Business
- Bangkok Post
Hylife Launches Innovation Platforms to Elevate Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai, June 30, 2025 – Hylife Group has officially launched two major international innovation competitions—Hylife Hackathon 2025 and the Hylife Innovation Excellence Awards 2025—with the goal of positioning Chiang Mai as a regional centre of innovation and fostering a sustainable digital business ecosystem. Together, the programmes offer more than 7 million baht in prizes and investment opportunities, including the chance to scale up with Hylife Group's support. The official press conference was led by Mr Dhanush Ramachandran Nair, Deputy Group Chief Executive Officer, and Ms Watcharaporn Lin, Executive Director, alongside key representatives from both public and private sectors engaged in Thailand's innovation and technology landscape. Mr Nair stated, 'These two platforms reflect Hylife Group's commitment to transforming Chiang Mai into a regional innovation hub. While their formats differ, both aim to connect creative ideas, technology, and business opportunities to enhance Thailand's long-term economic potential.' Hylife Hackathon 2025 is an international competition focused on idea generation, software, and platform development. Open for registration from 16 June to 31 August 2025, the hackathon welcomes software developers, UX/UI designers, tech students, and startup entrepreneurs. Teams of 3–5 members may register, with 16 teams selected to undergo intensive training in business strategy, prototyping, and pitching. The final round, the 'Prototype Coding Challenge,' will be held on 18–19 October 2025 at the Chiang Mai Marriott Hotel. Participants will develop solutions aligned with Chiang Mai's priority industries: smart living and property tech, smart agri-food and supply chains, smart manufacturing and health products, and smart finance and asset management. The prize pool exceeds 180,000 baht, with an additional 4 million baht in investment opportunities for teams that pass due diligence. Hylife Innovation Excellence Awards 2025, now in its second year, focuses on promoting innovative products and services in real estate, manufacturing, and asset management. Registration is open from 30 June to 16 October 2025. Eligible participants include startups with under one million baht in registered capital and companies established for no more than three years. Each team must comprise at least three members. The top 12 finalists will present their business plans on 28 November 2025 to a panel of distinguished international judges. Awards include over 240,000 baht in prize money and 3 million baht in investment opportunities, subject to due diligence. A highlight of the launch event was a panel discussion titled 'Solving Chiang Mai's Challenges with Startup Power, Innovation, and Technology.' Executives from Hylife Group and its partners discussed how technology can transform urban and community development. Speakers included Ms Atikarn Sutthiwong from the National Innovation Agency, who presented on startup business opportunities in Chiang Mai, and Mr Christopher Mosses, CEO of Manao Software, who explored how software developers can remain relevant in the age of AI. The event concluded with a networking session, promoting collaboration among stakeholders. The initiatives are supported by leading organisations nationwide, including Chiang Mai Municipality, Digital Economy Promotion Agency (depa), National Innovation Agency (NIA), Science and Technology Park, Chiang Mai University (CMU STeP), Thai Programmers Association, Manao Software Co., Ltd., and Inside Lanna.
The Sun
20-06-2025
- Business
- The Sun
NIA Invites You to Countdown to 'SITE 2025' Southeast Asia's Largest Innovation
BANGKOK, THAILAND - Media OutReach Newswire - 20 June 2025 - The National Innovation Agency (Public Organization) or NIA, under the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, has announced its readiness to host the Startup x Innovation Thailand Expo 2025 (SITE 2025) under the theme: 'Global Innovation Partnership – AI & Sustainability: The Next Era of Innovation,' to be held from July 4–6, 2025, at Paragon Hall, 5th Floor, Siam Paragon. This year marks a significant milestone as SITE evolves into a truly regional platform for innovation. Thailand is positioning itself as a Global Innovation Collaboration Hub, uniting the strength of 10 leading partner countries: Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong, Singapore, Czech Republic, Hungary, Finland, Switzerland, Qatar, and Chile—spanning Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and Latin America. In addition, over 100 organizations will participate, including 20 international agencies, 12+ leading private-sector companies, 7 professional associations, and 50 universities from across Thailand. 'More Than an Expo – A Global Collaboration Platform' Dr. Krithpaka Boonfueng, Executive Director of NIA, stated: 'SITE 2025 is more than an expo—it's a platform where meaningful global collaboration takes place with depth, inclusivity, and a shared purpose. With AI and sustainability at the core of the global economy, our goal is to drive real-world impact across business, investment, and innovation policy.' The 2025 edition of SITE will feature more than 30 seminars, covering the full spectrum of global innovation across three major stages: Main Stage – the 'heart' of the event, where international thought leaders will share visionary insights and the latest trends in AI, sustainability, and cross-border collaboration. Global Stage – in-depth policy and strategy sessions exploring opportunities, challenges, and pathways to bring innovation to the global market. Pitch Stage – a dedicated arena for Thai and international startups to pitch their ideas, promote technologies, and scale their ventures in front of global investors. Highlights: From Global Policy to Groundbreaking Pitches One of the major highlights on the Pitch Stage will be the National Pitching Startup Thailand League 2025, alongside the 100 Startup Pitching showcase, featuring cutting-edge technologies such as AI, Deep Tech, and sustainability-driven innovation. The expo will also include exhibitions from over 300 startups and leading innovation organizations, presenting real products, prototypes, and market-ready solutions. More than 30 Business Matching sessions will be held to facilitate direct connections between entrepreneurs, investors, technology owners, and partners from both Thailand and abroad. The Prime Minister Awards, a prestigious national honor, will recognize organizations, startups, and collaborations that have created significant and measurable impact both nationally and internationally. Dr. Krithpaka concluded: 'NIA invites everyone with a creative spirit—innovators, investors, entrepreneurs, students, or those seeking new opportunities—to be part of SITE 2025. This is a platform to connect with global players, update on future trends, and create meaningful change together. It's also a critical opportunity to help drive Thailand forward in alignment with the 'Groom – Grant – Growth – Global' strategy.' The 30+ Business Matching rounds are designed to help entrepreneurs meet with investors and technology owners in a targeted and impactful way. Special Panel at the Press Conference: 'Accelerating Innovation Through Global Partnerships' This session highlighted cross-sector collaboration driving Thai innovation to the global stage. From the government perspective, Mr. Pariwat Wongsamran, Deputy Executive Director of Innovation System at NIA, said: 'Innovation today knows no national borders. What NIA is doing is not just about giving opportunities to entrepreneurs—it's about laying the foundation for an ecosystem that connects Thailand to the world in a tangible way. Through partnerships in Europe and Asia, we're not only focusing on current innovations but also building infrastructure to support long-term growth so that Thai startups can scale more sustainably.' Ms. Salinee Phonprapai, Deputy Director-General of the Department of International Economic Affairs, added: 'Innovation is now a key engine driving Thailand's economy. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is pushing Thai startups onto the global stage through a network of 98 embassies and consulates worldwide. We're also working with partners like NIA, BOI, EEC, depa, and the Department of Trade Negotiations to promote investment, open new markets, and facilitate trade deals. In addition, visa policies are being introduced to attract global talent to enhance Thailand's innovation ecosystem.' On the private sector and innovation business side, Na Ranong, President of the Thai Venture Capital Association (TVCA), emphasized: 'Global partnership is the heart of modern investment. It increases business expansion opportunities and leads to higher value exits, particularly in hot sectors like AI and Deep Tech, which are drawing attention from global investors. Today's investors are looking for startups that can truly connect to the global network.' Mr. Thanawit Tonkanya, President of the Thai Startup Association (TSA), said: 'Thai startups must dream big, embrace international perspectives, and develop pitch skills that appeal to investors. SITE 2025 is a real-world arena for testing, connecting, and growing global networks.' 'Be part of the global change! and connect with innovators, creators, and investors shaping the future at SITE 2025.' The event will take place from July 4–6, 2025, at Paragon Hall, 5th Floor, Siam Paragon. Free entry! Register at: For more updates, follow on Facebook: NIA - National Innovation Agency Thailand, and Startup Thailand Hashtag: #NIA #SITE2025 #StartupThailand #InnovationThailand #DeepTech #AI #Sustainability #GlobalInnovationPartnership The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
The Sun
20-06-2025
- Business
- The Sun
NIA Invites You to Countdown to 'SITE 2025' Southeast Asia's Largest Innovation and Startup Expo, uniting 10 Countries and Over 100 Organizations to Drive Global Innovation Collaboration
BANGKOK, THAILAND - Media OutReach Newswire - 20 June 2025 - The National Innovation Agency (Public Organization) or NIA, under the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, has announced its readiness to host the Startup x Innovation Thailand Expo 2025 (SITE 2025) under the theme: 'Global Innovation Partnership – AI & Sustainability: The Next Era of Innovation,' to be held from July 4–6, 2025, at Paragon Hall, 5th Floor, Siam Paragon. This year marks a significant milestone as SITE evolves into a truly regional platform for innovation. Thailand is positioning itself as a Global Innovation Collaboration Hub, uniting the strength of 10 leading partner countries: Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong, Singapore, Czech Republic, Hungary, Finland, Switzerland, Qatar, and Chile—spanning Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and Latin America. In addition, over 100 organizations will participate, including 20 international agencies, 12+ leading private-sector companies, 7 professional associations, and 50 universities from across Thailand. 'More Than an Expo – A Global Collaboration Platform' Dr. Krithpaka Boonfueng, Executive Director of NIA, stated: 'SITE 2025 is more than an expo—it's a platform where meaningful global collaboration takes place with depth, inclusivity, and a shared purpose. With AI and sustainability at the core of the global economy, our goal is to drive real-world impact across business, investment, and innovation policy.' The 2025 edition of SITE will feature more than 30 seminars, covering the full spectrum of global innovation across three major stages: Main Stage – the 'heart' of the event, where international thought leaders will share visionary insights and the latest trends in AI, sustainability, and cross-border collaboration. Global Stage – in-depth policy and strategy sessions exploring opportunities, challenges, and pathways to bring innovation to the global market. Pitch Stage – a dedicated arena for Thai and international startups to pitch their ideas, promote technologies, and scale their ventures in front of global investors. Highlights: From Global Policy to Groundbreaking Pitches One of the major highlights on the Pitch Stage will be the National Pitching Startup Thailand League 2025, alongside the 100 Startup Pitching showcase, featuring cutting-edge technologies such as AI, Deep Tech, and sustainability-driven innovation. The expo will also include exhibitions from over 300 startups and leading innovation organizations, presenting real products, prototypes, and market-ready solutions. More than 30 Business Matching sessions will be held to facilitate direct connections between entrepreneurs, investors, technology owners, and partners from both Thailand and abroad. The Prime Minister Awards, a prestigious national honor, will recognize organizations, startups, and collaborations that have created significant and measurable impact both nationally and internationally. Dr. Krithpaka concluded: 'NIA invites everyone with a creative spirit—innovators, investors, entrepreneurs, students, or those seeking new opportunities—to be part of SITE 2025. This is a platform to connect with global players, update on future trends, and create meaningful change together. It's also a critical opportunity to help drive Thailand forward in alignment with the 'Groom – Grant – Growth – Global' strategy.' The 30+ Business Matching rounds are designed to help entrepreneurs meet with investors and technology owners in a targeted and impactful way. Special Panel at the Press Conference: 'Accelerating Innovation Through Global Partnerships' This session highlighted cross-sector collaboration driving Thai innovation to the global stage. From the government perspective, Mr. Pariwat Wongsamran, Deputy Executive Director of Innovation System at NIA, said: 'Innovation today knows no national borders. What NIA is doing is not just about giving opportunities to entrepreneurs—it's about laying the foundation for an ecosystem that connects Thailand to the world in a tangible way. Through partnerships in Europe and Asia, we're not only focusing on current innovations but also building infrastructure to support long-term growth so that Thai startups can scale more sustainably.' Ms. Salinee Phonprapai, Deputy Director-General of the Department of International Economic Affairs, added: 'Innovation is now a key engine driving Thailand's economy. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is pushing Thai startups onto the global stage through a network of 98 embassies and consulates worldwide. We're also working with partners like NIA, BOI, EEC, depa, and the Department of Trade Negotiations to promote investment, open new markets, and facilitate trade deals. In addition, visa policies are being introduced to attract global talent to enhance Thailand's innovation ecosystem.' On the private sector and innovation business side, Na Ranong, President of the Thai Venture Capital Association (TVCA), emphasized: 'Global partnership is the heart of modern investment. It increases business expansion opportunities and leads to higher value exits, particularly in hot sectors like AI and Deep Tech, which are drawing attention from global investors. Today's investors are looking for startups that can truly connect to the global network.' Mr. Thanawit Tonkanya, President of the Thai Startup Association (TSA), said: 'Thai startups must dream big, embrace international perspectives, and develop pitch skills that appeal to investors. SITE 2025 is a real-world arena for testing, connecting, and growing global networks.' 'Be part of the global change! and connect with innovators, creators, and investors shaping the future at SITE 2025.' The event will take place from July 4–6, 2025, at Paragon Hall, 5th Floor, Siam Paragon. Free entry! Register at:
