MIT $50K Vietnam Entrepreneurship Competition

WHAT IS MIT $50K VIETNAM?

"Vietnam is entering a critical window to build its next generation of startups"

We are proud to launch the MIT $50K Vietnam Entrepreneurship Competition, with a mission to discover and empower innovative, technology-driven ventures that create sustainable development and positive social impact.

Inspired by the prestigious MIT $100K Entrepreneurship Competition in the United States, MIT $50K Vietnam is designed to connect early-stage ideas, entrepreneurial talent, and access to investment.

Through this initiative, the MIT Sloan ASEAN Office and the Lawrence S. Ting Foundation aim to foster sustainable growth within Vietnam's entrepreneurial ecosystem.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Technology-Driven Innovation

Ventures must leverage technology as a core driver — not just a tool — to create scalable, differentiated solutions.

For-Profit Viability

Proposals must demonstrate a credible path to commercial sustainability, with a clear business model and revenue potential.

Meaningful Social Impact

Ventures should generate measurable positive impact — for Vietnam, ASEAN, or the world — alongside financial returns.

WHO IS IT FOR?

  • Graduate-level students
  • Individual applicants or teams
  • Currently enrolled at a university in Vietnam
Students collaborating on a venture

PRIZES

Non-dilutive funding for winning teams, in line with competition rules.

PRIZE DETAILS
1st Place $30,000
2nd Place $15,000
3rd Place $5,000

KEY MILESTONES

10.2026

Applications Open

Submit your project proposal, then check your inbox for the result.

Upcoming

12.2026

Finalists Announced

The top 5 teams are selected as finalists to advance to the Finals. Finalists should begin preparing their pitch and business plan.

03.2027

Finals & Awards

Winners will be announced at the conclusion of the final round.

READY TO BUILD
SOMETHING NEW?

APPLY NOW Applications open on October 1, 2026