Bridging the gap between research and development for creative innovation

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Phan Tien Dung, Head of the Department of Technology Application and Deployment - Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology

Q: In your opinion, how do creative innovation and technology transfer impact businesses?

A: Creative innovation is fundamentally important. It not only creates technologically advanced products but also addresses real-life problems. For businesses, creative innovation brings competitive advantages, resulting in products with a significant societal impact.

However, achieving these impacts requires businesses to develop a robust ecosystem for creative innovation, similar to those in developed countries. This is a complex process with multiple stages, from basic research and research orientation to technology development, business development, and market expansion.

While basic research carries low risk, the intermediate stages of technology development and commercialization often present difficulties and high risks. This necessitates supportive policies where the government helps create a foundation for businesses and scientists to develop and bring products to market.

Q: Can you elaborate on the current barriers to creative innovation?

A: One example is Decree No. 70/2018/ND-CP on managing and utilizing assets generated from scientific and technological tasks using state capital. It mandates valuation before transferring research results using the state budget. However, Vietnam's science and technology market is still developing, leaving scientists with limited experience in valuation and access to professional valuation services.

Another barrier is profit-sharing regulations. The Law on Intellectual Property grants scientists 15-20% of the profits. The Law on Science and Technology requires a minimum of 30%. However, Decree 70 requires a portion of the profit be remitted to the state budget based on the contribution rate. This leaves scientists with no profit if the entire funding comes from the state budget.

Moreover, in many countries, scientists can own businesses and develop their researched technologies. However, Vietnam's Law on Enterprises, Law on Cadres and Public Servants, and Law on Officials prevent scientists holding official positions from establishing and managing businesses, limiting them to capital contribution. This significantly hinders applying science and technology practically.

Q: Considering these barriers, what should supporting policies entail?

A: Taking a product from idea to successful commercialization is challenging. Only a few out of hundreds of ideas become successful products. Many research products remain confined to laboratories, highlighting a disconnection between research and reality.

Therefore, the government needs continued investment in scientific research. Additionally, support policies need better synchronization and relevance. Many existing policies lack strength and don't adequately support businesses in commercializing products. Simplifying procedures is crucial to accelerate evaluating and applying research results practically, creating tangible value for society.

Recently, there has been a call to strengthen connections between the "three stakeholders" of the creative innovation ecosystem: the government, scientists, and businesses. Closer and more effective collaboration among these stakeholders is crucial.

Scientists must proactively focus on research that addresses market and societal needs. Instead of pursuing personal interests, they should align their research with market and business requirements. The government should enact policies supporting scientists in their research, leading to market-ready products. Businesses can connect and share resources for research and development.

The Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology is promoting these efforts by raising awareness and understanding of intellectual property rights and commercialization. The academy has also issued policies encouraging scientists to conduct research from ideation to market-ready products, proactively promoting technology transfer, and creating networking opportunities between scientists and businesses.

Thank you!