Innovation Competition 2024: Expanding subjects and scale
The competition organized by the Polytechnic University in collaboration with the Department of Science and Technology of Ho Chi Minh City aims to encourage innovative startup ideas from pupils, students and startup groups nationwide.
Initially, the competition was only for students at the Polytechnoc University in Ho Chi Minh City, then it expanded to students from universities in Ho Chi Minh City and neighboring areas, and then to high school students. Howevew, this year, the competition is open to startup groups nationwide.
Upgrading the competition, according to Assoc. Prof. Mai Thanh Phong, Rector of Ho Chi Minh City Polytechnic University, is a necessary trend, as the University has turned startup innovation into its important strategy, striving to become a startup university according to international standards.
The competition field is based on science and technology in various areas, such as digital transformation, artificial intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), healthcare, environmental engineering, chemistry, electronics, and etc. Projects participating in the competition need to be innovative, develop products (goods or services), processes, have new or significantly improved features, and have the potential for commercial application.
Between the competition rounds, teams are supported with knowledge and skills training on innovative startup through short-term training courses, consultations/advice from experts, using Innovation FabLab to develop prototype products, field trips... The main language used throughout the competition is English.
The competition consists of three categories: Start-up category for startup teams (projects from businesses registered for less than 5 years); Student category for students, alumni (graduated within 2 years at the time of registration), master's students from universities, colleges; and High school student category.
The competition runs until October 5, 2024, with a total prize value of over 500 million VND. In addition, the winning teams are supported to develop their startup ideas. Among other things, the winning teams have the right to participate in project development activities, such as using the Innovation Fablab at the Polytecnic University, a consulting package (legal, intellectual property registration, 1:1 advisor, etc.).