Announced at a ceremony in Ha Noi on April 17, the project aims to strengthen links between Viet Nam, the Republic of Korea (RoK) and global markets, while fostering the country’s climate tech ecosystem. It will support start-ups and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in accessing finance, scaling innovation and contributing to Viet Nam’s transition towards net zero emissions.
Co-funded by KOICA and GGGI, the programme comprises two closely linked components. The first focuses on enhancing the market readiness of climate tech SMEs and start-ups through accelerator support, expert mentoring and investor connections. The second aims to improve policy frameworks at both central and local levels, including green project appraisal, policy analysis, and the integration of net zero and green growth targets into provincial socio-economic plans for 2026–2030.
Le Viet Anh, Deputy Director General at the Ministry of Finance, said the project would prioritise sectors with strong transformation potential, including agriculture, the circular economy, waste management, transport and energy. These areas, he noted, are central to Viet Nam’s emissions reduction roadmap and could drive innovation and competitiveness.
Representatives from KOICA and GGGI highlighted their experience in supporting start-ups and promoting green investment. They emphasised that the partnership would help strengthen carbon neutrality policies and improve the investment climate.
Despite recent progress in policy development and industrial capacity, climate tech firms in Viet Nam continue to face challenges in commercialisation, market expansion and access to finance. Growing international interest in the Vietnamese market has also underscored the need for more streamlined regulatory access and stronger local partnerships.
As part of the initiative, the “Climate Tech Catalyst: Viet Nam and Beyond” accelerator programme was unveiled. It will select 15 companies per round in 2026 and 2027, offering mentorship, market entry support and funding opportunities of up to 240,000 USD.
The launch comes ahead of the RoK President’s state visit to Viet Nam later this month, highlighting deepening bilateral cooperation in advancing global net zero ambitions.
