On November 13–14, 2025, the University of Danang – University of Science and Education (UD-UED), in collaboration with the Danang Department of Science and Technology, successfully organized the Agricultural and Medicinal Innovation Startup Forum 2025. The event, sponsored by the People’s Committee of Da Nang City, drew nearly 500 participants, including scientists, entrepreneurs, policymakers, investment funds, startup incubators, lecturers, and students.

In his keynote address, Mr. Ho Quang Buu, Vice Chairman of the Da Nang City People’s Committee, commended the university’s efforts to foster startup and innovation activities. He emphasized the importance of these initiatives in spreading new ideas, connecting knowledge, and driving breakthroughs in agriculture and medicinal products - fields with substantial growth potential.

Da Nang City is committed to supporting scientists, businesses, and startups in translating research outcomes into practical applications that benefit the community and contribute to socio-economic development, Mr. Ho Quang Buu stated.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Vo Van Minh, Rector of UD-UED, noted that the forum aimed to strengthen collaboration among four key stakeholder groups: educational institutions, scientists, policymakers, and businesses. With the theme “The Journey of Commercializing Innovative Startup Products in Agriculture and Medicinal Fields,” the event underscored the importance of leveraging local resources and knowledge to drive innovation.

The forum advanced the message: “Learn to Innovate - Research to Contribute - Transform to Develop,” aligning with Resolution No. 57 of the Politburo, which calls for breakthroughs in science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation to harness the region’s natural and intellectual advantages.

Startup initiatives are not just about business; they represent a way of thinking - how students, lecturers, scientists, policymakers, and entrepreneurs envision value and direction in response to new challenges, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Vo Van Minh remarked. He stressed the importance of integrating academic knowledge with practical applications to achieve sustainable development rooted in green agriculture.

UD-UED has made significant progress in research on ginseng and medicinal plants native to the Central region. Early results show promise in genetic preservation and propagation, paving the way for the development and commercialization of high-value products.

The forum featured three working sessions and eight thematic reports, focusing on identifying development potential, analyzing startup pathways, and exploring strategies for commercializing agricultural and medicinal products. Discussions also highlighted the crucial role of educational institutions in fostering innovation ecosystems.

As part of the event, UD-UED’s Innovation and Startup Hub signed cooperation agreements with five partners, including businesses and investment funds. The forum also hosted exhibitions titled “The Journey of Commercializing Research Outcomes – Agriculture and Medicinal Products 2025” and “Scientific and Technological Achievements by UD-UED: 50 Years of Connection and Development.”

The forum not only fostered collaboration but also laid the groundwork for advancing innovation and sustainable development in agriculture and medicinal fields, reinforcing the university’s role as a catalyst for regional progress.

UD Media