Global Startup Hub 2026 | Startup Thailand

Program Details

ABOUT THE PROGRAM

รายละเอียดโครงการ Global Startup Hub 2026

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

The Global Startup Hub 2026 Program is part of NIA's initiative to drive innovation across four areas: Groom, Grant, Growth, and Global. The program aims to continuously develop the capabilities of startups both in Thailand and abroad, focusing on building readiness in all aspects necessary for growth. This includes strengthening preparedness in business, marketing, access to funding, legal matters, and relevant regulations, as well as reinforcing the overall startup ecosystem in Thailand.

Objectives

Enhance the capabilities of startups to operate efficiently and competitively.
To promote and facilitate business matching and Proof of concept with corporate partners, including large corporations and organizations.
Support access to new markets and foster connections with business partners.
Create opportunities for accessing investment from both domestic and global VCs/CVCs.
Promote and elevate Thailand's startup ecosystem to achieve recognition at the global level.

Focus Areas

Artificial Intelligence – AI

Internet of Things – IoT

Semiconductor

EV & Mobility Technology

Energy Tech

Climate Tech & Sustainability

Program Duration

4 April – 31 August 2026

Application Period

Now - 15 March 2026

Eligibility

Must be a startup that is legally registered as a juristic entity.
Must have a ready-to-use product, service, or solution, with demonstrable traction (e.g. existing users and/or revenue).
Must have a scalable business model with the potential to grow both domestically and internationally.
Must demonstrate a strong intention and readiness to expand into the ASEAN market.
Open to Thai and international startups.

Program Benefits

Intensive OKR Workshop & Mentorship

Receive one-on-one coaching from industry experts to refine your strategic direction and drive measurable growth using the Objectives and Key Results (OKR) framework.

Dedicated Mentor Hours

Get direct access to 20+ specialists through 10+ dedicated One-on-One sessions, designed to solve your specific business challenges.

Business Matching & Proof of Concept (PoC)

Engage in curated business matching sessions and validate your product, service, or solution through PoC collaborations with corporate partners and leading enterprises.

Ecosystem Tour & Networking

Connect with key stakeholders within the startup ecosystem and NIA's partner network, including government agencies, private sector leaders, academic institutions, and industry associations.

Demo Day

Present your business to venture capital firms (VCs), corporates, and international experts, unlocking opportunities for market expansion and regional (ASEAN) investment.

Priority Access to NIA Funding Programs

Priority Showcase Opportunity at SITE 2026

Priority Access to ASEAN Market Expansion Programs

Application & Selection Process

Application Submission: Applicants must complete and submit the official application form to participate in the program.

Pitching Presentation: Startups that pass the initial screening will be invited to present their business proposals to the selection committee.

Announcement of Selected Startups: A total of 30 startups will be selected and officially announced via the Startup Thailand and NIA Facebook pages.

Note: Selected startups are required to participate in program activities as specified by NIA.

Selection Criteria

Startup Selection Criteria

Evaluation criteria for startup selection

No.

Evaluation Criteria

Key Considerations

Product/Service/Solution Potential

Level of technology and innovation (new technology or significant improvement/enhancement of existing solutions)
Availability of supporting research, knowledge, or reference data
Competitive advantage

Market Potential & Scalability

Market size
Go-to-market strategy
Ability to scale rapidly
Adaptability for ASEAN markets (localization)
Business sustainability and growth potential

Team Strength

Experience and expertise of the founding team
Commitment and continuity in business growth

Current Traction & Achievements

Revenue growth and/or user adoption
Fundraising experience
Product validation with customers or partners (PoC)

Suitability and Alignment with the Program

Alignment of the startup's goals with the program's objectives

Note:

The decision of the selection committee shall be considered final.

GLOBAL STARTUP HUB