Innovation can happen anywhere.

(GLO)- In the context of science and technology becoming a new growth driver, the young business community in Gia Lai is striving to find a sustainable direction, going beyond the limits of traditional agriculture and forestry.

Talking to reporters of Gia Lai Newspaper and Radio and Television, Mr. Vu Hong Quan - Chairman of Binh Dinh Young Entrepreneurs Association, who also runs many enterprises in Gia Lai - shared his vision, solutions and specific steps to form an innovation ecosystem.

Mr. Vu Hong Quan - Chairman of Binh Dinh Young Entrepreneurs Association participated in giving opinions at the association's specialized AI training course. Photo: Hai Yen

* Science and technology are considered the key to regional economic development. How do you view this opportunity for the young business community?

- I think this is a pivotal moment for young businesses to break through. Previously, many businesses in Gia Lai relied mainly on agriculture and forestry. But science and technology, especially AI, big data, or microchip design, are opening new doors.

If we know how to take advantage, businesses can go beyond traditional limits to expand their development space. The important thing is that we do not take shortcuts, but go step by step, creating concrete values ​​from the lab, from young engineers, not just stopping at slogans.

* In reality, what activities has the Binh Dinh Young Entrepreneurs Association done to materialize that spirit?

- Since the beginning of the year, the Association has coordinated with universities to organize many meaningful events. For example, the Pitching Portfolio Competition 2025, Professional AI Showcase 2025, or the QNU Job Fair 2025 with 9 member booths, bringing more than 2,000 job and internship opportunities to students.

In addition, we also participate in major programs such as Multi-channel Digital Marketing at the International Center for Interdisciplinary Science and Education (ICISE); training conferences on e-commerce and digital transformation, as well as the 6th National Innovative Startup Forum in the province. These activities not only connect businesses, but also create a practical environment for technology application.

Binh Dinh Young Entrepreneurs Association signed a digital transformation cooperation agreement with MISA Joint Stock Company. Photo: Hai Yen

* In the context of a shortage of high-tech human resources, what do you think is a sustainable direction?

- People always come before infrastructure. I am very happy that the Provincial People's Committee has implemented the AI ​​and STEM training project. But to have a truly sustainable workforce, we need a "20 - 5 - 2" selection model. That is, from 20 interns, 5 core staff will be selected, then 2 chief engineers in charge of technology and products will be formed.

Enterprises must proactively order research for universities, take advantage of tax deduction mechanisms for training costs; especially invite domestic and foreign experts to provide direct training.

A specific example is the possibility of building a lab at a university under the public-private model, where businesses contribute capital, the school provides infrastructure, and experts undertake training.

* Some people say that chip or semiconductor production requires too many resources, beyond the capacity of young local businesses...

- It is true that building a “billion-dollar factory” is too much, but we can absolutely choose “small links”. For example, designing specialized microchips, or applying AI in management, smart agriculture. These are all within reach, but the value they bring is huge.

From April to June this year, the Association organized a workshop on AI in management, signed a digital transformation cooperation agreement with MISA Joint Stock Company, and participated in many training programs on energy and e-commerce. These are small steps, but they contribute to improving management capacity and connecting new knowledge for members.

* So can small businesses with few resources participate in this technology game?

- I believe so. Small businesses can start with seemingly small things: Sponsoring scholarships for technology engineers, supporting startup incubation, or connecting overseas experts to serve as advisors. If done properly, these things will create big changes. Not every business can become a technology center, but any place can initiate innovation.

* What message do you want to send to the young business community?

- Young entrepreneurs must dare to try, dare to do, dare to take responsibility. No need to do it quickly, just do it firmly; no need to do it big right away, just do it right.

It is this perseverance and sustainable steps that will create long-term progress. When private enterprises join hands with the government and schools, an inter-regional innovation ecosystem in the South Central Coast - Central Highlands will certainly gradually take shape. And that is the new driving force for sustainable development.

* Thank you!

Source: https://baogialai.com.vn/bat-cu-noi-nao-cung-co-the-khoi-phat-doi-moi-sang-tao-post565969.html