Supporting research on green transformation projects.

Quang Ninh: Domestic researchers and businesses can access the excellent scientific community through a large funding source of up to 53.5 billion euros from Horizon Europe.

This information was shared by Dr. Jenny Elmaco, Coordinator of Horizon Europe in the ASEAN region (Euraxess ASEAN), at the forum "Digital Transformation and Green Transformation for Sustainable Development" within the framework of the Techconnect and Innovation Vietnam 2023 event, on the morning of September 30th.

Ms. Elmaco stated that Euraxess Asean is one of the businesses present in Vietnam to support researchers. During the cooperation and networking event between Europe and Vietnam, Europe pledged to provide funding for scientists to study and then return to their home countries to contribute.

One suggestion she offered to scientists seeking information was to access the Horizon Europe database. This European Union Commission program for researchers focuses on innovation, addressing climate change, sustainable development goals, supporting innovation policies, and tackling global challenges to promote technological excellence. "This is an opportunity for learning, networking, and information sharing that helps young researchers and businesses join the scientific community," she said.

Dr. Jenny Elmaco speaks about opportunities for Vietnamese scientists and businesses. Photo: Ngoc Thanh

One of the pillars of the program is scientific excellence, aiming to strengthen and expand pioneering research and education institutions. It brings together the best research councils, renowned scientists, and involves many major businesses. Scientists can come from a wide range of disciplines, not just healthcare, but also creative fields, culture, electronics, bioeconomics , agriculture, and the environment.

With a substantial budget of €53.5 billion, allocated to various fields, the organization is ready to offer open opportunities for scientists. It's important to note that individuals need to conduct research with a supporting partner in Europe, and the research must also be carried out in a European Union member state.

For example, the Marie Curie Action Fund's main function is skills training and career development. Here, scientists, regardless of age (25 or 60) and field of study, are evaluated based on the time they dedicate to research. Currently, Vietnam has approximately 15-18 projects participating in this fund.

Individuals participating in the PhD program can seek reciprocal programs to study in Europe. After completing their 8-year PhD, they can continue with a community outreach program. If the European partner is willing to fund, scientists can conduct the program independently and bring their families to Europe, with family allowances provided. The program also offers postdoctoral scholarships, which are a one-way application process. Additionally, businesses can send employees to Europe for study and training, after which they can return to Vietnam to contribute to the country.

Alternatively, the ERC research fund, which supports leading researchers, also has an open funding mechanism for Vietnamese researchers to study in Europe. "Researchers can receive up to 2.5 million euros, with the primary criterion for selection being truly outstanding research," she said, suggesting that researchers could simultaneously apply for support from multiple funds within the program.

Dr. Jenny Elmac stated that Horizon Europe has an open mechanism for Vietnam; interested agencies and organizations can visit the organization's website to view the content. Additionally, to participate, organizations in Vietnam need to find partners in the EU, then collaborate and submit a proposal to the fund.

She stated that the international cooperation program's website also features success stories and funding opportunities. In fact, many organizations that have already registered are often interested in reapplying, so organizations and businesses can refer to this information to find partners and collaborate with them to submit proposals. Vietnamese scientists can also contact research organizations and universities to jointly develop proposals across the program's pillars. "This is a starting point for us to collaborate. This program is expected to expand further in the future," added Dr. Jenny Elmac.

Ms. Do Thi Ngoc Diep shared insights on investment opportunities for green transformation projects. Photo: Ngoc Thanh

From a financial perspective, Ms. Do Thi Ngoc Diep from the International Finance Corporation (IFC) stated that IFC has supported numerous projects, including providing $76 billion in loans for green buildings. In Vietnam, last year IFC provided $300 million in loans, contributing to the expansion of Vietnam's green building market, which can range from warehouses and factories, schools, hospitals, and commercial buildings to even low-income housing, all of which can be assessed as green and eligible for preferential loans.

Regarding opportunities for green technology startups, Ms. Diep stated that the organization offers many financing packages for startups. IFC has a direct investment package, but she noted that most startups find it difficult to meet the investment requirements. Therefore, IFC offers other investment packages through commercial banks that are more suitable for startup businesses. For example, the green finance investment package through VPBank, where IFC invests in the bank and the bank disburses funds to the startup; or businesses owned by women can choose the investment package through SeAbank.

Ms. Diep highlighted the technological focus, with new material technologies and green energy being showcased at the event. According to her, solutions impacting various fields, such as RARE paint, thermal coatings, waste conversion technology, green steel, green cement, and Rang Dong lighting, help organizations access green technologies and create significant collaborative support within the green building network.

The Vietnam Techconnect & Innovation 2023 event is themed "Innovation - Sustainable Development". This year's event is directed by the Ministry of Science and Technology and the People's Committee of Quang Ninh province, and organized by the Department of Technology Application and Development, Quang Ninh Provincial Department of Science and Technology.

The program, taking place over two days on September 29th and 30th, is designed with activities including forums and conferences to exchange information on the topic of technology connectivity and innovation, product demonstrations and technology highlights, and networking to promote investment and research cooperation.

Nhu Quynh

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