To strengthen ties with businesses in scientific research, National Economics University (NEU) is partnering with Red Media Joint Stock Company on the project “Research on Building a Network of Consultants to Support Innovative Small and Medium-Sized Startups in Hai Duong Province.” The project runs from January 2025 to March 2026.

In Hai Duong Province, small and medium-sized enterprises account for approximately 98% of the more than 21,300 businesses in operation. They are considered a very important force in driving economic growth, creating jobs, and delivering considerable value to the locality. However, Hai Duong Province’s startup ecosystem still lacks connectivity, particularly a network of consultants with in-depth expertise who can support businesses throughout their development. In response to this practical need, NEU proposed the project and was assigned to lead its implementation, working with Red Media Joint Stock Company, a company with strengths in communications and network building, to carry out activities within the research remit.

The research team surveys businesses in Hai Duong

Since the contract was signed, the project research team has prepared thematic reports, conducted surveys, and drafted a proposal for a model network of consultants to support innovative small and medium-sized startups in Hai Duong Province. The team surveyed nearly 400 respondents, including individuals, businesses, support organizations, experts, and lecturers, to assess their needs and capacity to participate in the consultant network. The survey results show that more than 80% of businesses reported a strong need to find consultants in areas such as innovative startup consulting, product development, business strategy, digital transformation, intellectual property, and investment fundraising. The team also received expressions of interest in joining the network as consultants or mentors from numerous university experts, businesspeople, and startup founders.

Speaking with leaders of several businesses and representatives of state management agencies in Hai Duong Province, Dr. Vu Tuan Anh, Director of the Center for Economic and Business Research and Consulting and Principal Investigator, said: “A professional consultant network model supporting innovative small and medium-sized startups needs to be implemented to develop the startup ecosystem in Hai Duong Province. The model needs to be extended to other localities nationwide in the context of implementing Resolution No. 57-NQ/TW on breakthroughs in the development of science, technology, innovation, and national digital transformation, and Resolution No. 68-NQ/TW on private sector development.”

Building and developing a network of professional, well-trained consultants with practical knowledge and the ability to connect with resources within and beyond the locality is key to improving the effectiveness of support for innovative small and medium-sized startups, particularly as the country implements Resolution No. 57-NQ/TW on breakthroughs in the development of science, technology, innovation, and national digital transformation, and Resolution No. 68-NQ/TW on private sector development.

The project is expected to complete its final report and formally propose an operating model for the network by the end of 2025, providing a basis for Hai Duong to implement the next phase.

The collaboration between NEU and Red Media Joint Stock Company in carrying out a science and technology project with local applications clearly demonstrates how choosing a research cooperation model involving universities, research institutes, and businesses helps enhance practical applicability and develop the country’s high-quality human resources.

Some photos of the team surveying businesses in Hai Duong:

Article and photos: Center for Economic and Business Research and Consulting

This is an automated translation. If you notice any errors, please contact the Department of Communications, National Economics University at phongtruyenthong@neu.edu.vn.