The National Innovation Agency (NIA) is actively supporting the startup ecosystem with the goal of establishing Thailand as a Global Startup Hub. This initiative is being implemented across three key areas: the Global Startup Hub in Bangkok (BKK), Chiang Mai (CNX), and the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC). In addition to domestic efforts, the NIA is building international cooperation networks through its Bilateral Programs for Parallel Support and Innovation Diplomacy initiatives, which aim to foster collaboration, attract investment, and promote Thailand's image as an innovative nation on the global stage.
Bilateral Programs for Parallel Support
• Operated by: The Innovation for Economy Department.
• Objective: To promote the development of innovations that create both economic and social value and to enhance the capabilities of entrepreneurs in business sectors of mutual interest between Thailand and partner countries.
• Key Activities: Facilitating joint innovation projects, collaborating with international agency networks, providing training for entrepreneurs on target country markets, supporting business-to-business (B2B) networking, and assisting Thai entrepreneurs with international business expansion.
Open Call: Thailand-Israel R&D Cooperation Program
• Collaboration: A joint program between Thailand's National Innovation Agency (NIA) and the Israel Innovation Authority (IIA), established under a 2018 bilateral agreement.
• Program Goal: To support collaborative pilot projects between Thai and Israeli companies that focus on developing innovative products or processes with strong potential for commercialization in global markets.
• Focus Areas: Agritech, Clean Energy, Circular Economy, Foodtech, Manufacturing, Digital Health, and Cyber Security.
• Project Requirements: Proposals must involve at least one eligible Thai company and one Israeli company, focus on piloting a new product or process, demonstrate meaningful contributions from partners in both countries, maintain a balanced collaboration, and have a maximum implementation period of three years.
• Eligibility: Thai applicants must be companies carrying out pilot activities in Thailand. Israeli applicants must be registered companies conducting pilot activities in Israel. Academic and research organizations may participate as subcontractors.
• Intellectual Property: Applicants are required to have an agreement on intellectual property rights and commercialization arrangements, with a Letter of Intent, preliminary agreement, or draft Memorandum of Understanding required at the submission stage.
• Funding (Thailand): The NIA may provide funding for up to 75% of eligible and approved pilot costs.
• Funding (Israel): The Israel Innovation Authority may fund up to 50% of eligible and approved costs in the form of a conditional grant, subject to its national regulations.
• Application Deadline: July 21, 2026.
Innovation Diplomacy
• Objective: To develop and expand strategic cooperation networks with international entities that have strong innovation potential, aiming to elevate the international standing of Thailand's innovation system and promote the country's image as an "innovation nation."
• Target Groups: The initiative focuses on expanding cooperation through diplomatic channels with three primary groups: Government to Government (G2G), Government to Investor (G2I), and Government to Startup (G2S).
• Key Activities: The program organizes meetings, knowledge-sharing seminars, and networking events. This includes conducting online seminars with Thai embassies on various topics and holding exhibitions to disseminate information about innovation diplomacy.
These programs collectively represent a comprehensive strategy to enhance Thailand's innovation landscape, offering structured support for local development and fostering international partnerships. They provide clear pathways for entrepreneurs and companies to access resources, funding, and global networks, reinforcing the country's commitment to building a dynamic and globally connected startup ecosystem.