Bridging Innovation: A Founder’s Playbook for the Vietnam – Australia Corridor

In this article, AVPI Fellow, Cong-Thang Huynh draws on over a decade of experience building startup ecosystems to outline how both countries can better support two-way innovation flow. From addressing gaps in government-led programs to creating founder-first platforms like the Go Global Program and the Vietnam Innovation Summit (VIS 2025), Thang offers actionable insights on what’s needed to build lasting commercial bridges between Vietnam and Australia. 

Key takeaways

• Vietnam’s startup ecosystem is scaling rapidly, with over 3,800 startups, but international expansion remains a key barrier, especially for SMEs and emerging tech firms. 
• Western Australia is positioned as a strategic launchpad, offering a mature innovation ecosystem, active venture capital landscape, and government-supported entry points like the Austrade Landing Pad. 
• The Go Global Program and West Tech Fest (Dec 2025) are catalysing outbound growth by helping Vietnamese startups pitch, partner, and engage with Australian innovation hubs. 
• VIS 2025 (Nov 6 – 7) in Ho Chi Minh City aims to reverse the inbound-outbound imbalance by offering Australian startups a tailored immersion program for market entry into Vietnam. 
• Thang stresses that not only policy but also trust is the foundation of successful cross-border partnerships. Informal networking, peer circles, and alumni communities are critical for building lasting ties. 
• Key gaps remain, including sector-limited programs and a lack of commercially-driven infrastructure connecting the two ecosystems. Thang recommends establishing an InnoLab Asia presence in Australia and formalising landing pad pathways for Vietnamese startups.