The National Technology Innovation Fund (NATIF) under the Ministry of Science and Technology has disclosed its state budget execution report for the first nine months of 2026, with expenditure estimated at over VND3.91 billion ($156,460).
The figure represents 72.5 percent of its full-year state budget expense allocation of nearly VND5.4 billion ($215,670). All budget allocations fall under the science and technology, innovation, and digital transformation operational sector.
Specifically, the 2026 budget allocated for regular operational support stood at VND5.1 billion ($203,800), and VND3.9 billion ($156,460) of which or 77 percent has been spent in the nine-month period.
Additionally, NATIF was allocated VND296.9 million ($11,870) for bonus funds under Decree No. 73/2024/ND-CP, with no disbursements recorded at the time of publication.
In enterprise support activities, NATIF announced in September that it is accepting applications for technology innovation projects applying artificial intelligence (AI).
State funding provides up to VND3 billion ($120,000) per project for an execution period not exceeding 12 months. Supported projects target developing practical AI products, services, processes, or operational models.
NATIF is also currently assisting businesses in accessing the second phase of interest rate subsidy policies.
However, delivering support programs to businesses continues to face operational hurdles. Speaking at a forum in early October, NATIF Director Bui Quang Minh highlighted a persistent gap between initial corporate interest and actual application submissions.
He noted that while enterprises express enthusiasm during discussions, actual application submissions remain low due to concerns over post-support liability associated with state budget funds. Additionally, many businesses struggle with unfamiliarity regarding application workflows and documentation requirements.
To resolve these bottlenecks, NATIF is designing an online submission workflow and expanding guidance through direct dialogue sessions, including five workshops scheduled in October alone.
The fund aims to shorten appraisal timelines and simplify procedures, enabling businesses to proactively apply and undergo review based on program criteria.
According to NATIF leadership, simplifying procedures does not imply lax oversight. The fund will maintain strict post-inspection mechanisms to ensure public resources are utilized properly. Beneficiary enterprises must demonstrate the tangible effectiveness of investments, guaranteeing that state capital achieves intended goals and generates practical value.
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