Khon Kaen University Science Park (KKUSP), in collaboration with Khon Kaen University Enterprise (KKUE), hosted the “Go Innovation SME Matching Day by MHESI & FTI.” This event, organised with the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI) and the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI), served as a vital platform to match ready-to-use research outcomes with industrial needs, promoting tangible commercialisation and growth.
The event, held on 27 November 2025, at the Administrative Building of the Northeast Regional Science Park 1 (Khon Kaen Province), displayed research results aligned with the North-eastern region’s Industry Flagship priorities. The gathering attracted over 150 entrepreneurs and investors, featuring a dynamic programme of activities.
The welcoming address and special lecture were delivered by Associate Professor Pensri Jaroenwanit, Ph.D., Vice President for Student Affairs and Innovation Commercialisation, Khon Kaen University.
Associate Professor Pensri highlighted the university’s crucial role as an “Innovation Creator” and a key mechanism for driving research commercialisation. She also underscored the university’s commitment to supporting the regional innovation-based business ecosystem.
Insightful lectures were also provided by representatives from government agencies and innovation support institutions:
- Dr. Wattanajak Phoomwiseis, Director of the Science Park Group, Office of the Permanent Secretary (MHESI), spoke on “The Mechanism of Regional Science Parks in Supporting the Private Sector.”
- Dr. Jenkrit Kanatharana, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI), presented on “Understanding the Innovation One Fund for the Private Sector.”
- Mr. Apichit Prasoprat, Vice Chairman of the FTI, discussed “Promoting FTI Membership to Enhance the Competitiveness of Thai Industries.”
- Ms. Paiyada Hanchaisukskul, Director of the National Food Institute (NFI), introduced the “NFI Food NEXT Platform – Driving Future Food Innovation.”
- Ms. Supaporn Kanaprom, Innovation Developer from the National Innovation Agency (NIA), outlined “Government Research Funds from the National Innovation Agency (Public Organisation).”
A panel discussion titled “The Success of Applying Research and Technology in the Industrial Sector” showcased two significant case studies:
- Tubtim Chum Phae Rice Innovation, presented by Assistant Professor Peerayong Wongthanathan, Ph.D., Lecturer at the Faculty of Technology, Khon Kaen University, and an expert in entrepreneur enhancement under the KKU Science Park mechanism.
- “Im Jai Jam” Product, presented by Ms. Chuleeporn Satitphongpipat, Executive Director of Roiphaet Foods Co., Ltd., an entrepreneur supported by the Northeast Regional Science Park 2.
The discussion, moderated by Associate Professor Chayada Surawanichkul, Ph.D., Lecturer at the Faculty of Interdisciplinary Studies, Khon Kaen University, effectively demonstrated the potential of Thai research to generate tangible economic and social value.
The event included workshops and consultation clinics designed to support both entrepreneurs and researchers:
- A workshop on “Techniques for Developing Proposal Submissions for the Innovation One Fund” led by Ms. Saowaphap Rakshapram, Project Consultant from FTI.
- In-depth research problem development consultations offered by the KKU Science Park team.
More than 50 research projects ready for technology transfer were exhibited by Khon Kaen University, its network institutions, and various research units. The exhibition booths covered three core industry groups aligned with the target industries of the Northeast region:
- Food: 27 projects
- Health: 9 projects
- Agriculture: 19 projects
Partners from FTI, including affiliated federations, financial institutions, local entrepreneurs, and global marketing platforms such as Alibaba, also participated in the exhibition.
Interested parties can view the comprehensive research catalogue here: https://www.canva.com/…/z42Zh8o7mONiZrDs10FP6A/view…
During the event, researchers had a direct opportunity to connect with end-users, fostering discussions and collaborations with the industrial sector on various issues. This represents a significant stride in expanding the commercial application of research outcomes. KKUSP and KKUE are committed to continually developing mechanisms for innovation support and technology transfer to strengthen the capacity of entrepreneurs and foster a robust regional innovation ecosystem.
Contact for Collaborative Research and Innovation Commercialisation:
KKU Enterprise (KKUE) Office of the President Building 2, 2nd Floor Telephone: 095-167-1143 Website: https://kkuenterprise.kku.ac.th/
Khon Kaen University Science Park (KKUSP) Telephone: 043-048-048 Email: info@kkusp.com
#KKUSP #KKUE #MHESI #FTI #InnovationMatching #SciencePark #KKU #ApplicableResearch #BusinessInnovation
Photography: Nopadol, Pratya News: Pornchawarat
