TED Fund Leads the Way with TED Youth Startup Social & Environmental Program
The Technology and Innovation-Based Enterprise Development Fund, known as the TED Fund, is spearheading efforts to support and promote technology and innovation-based entrepreneurs in Thailand. Mr. Wannee Nonthasiri, Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation, revealed that the TED Fund has been instrumental in nurturing new entrepreneurs over the past eight years. Since 2016, the TED Fund has supported a total of 1,100 projects, with a funding amount exceeding 960 million baht. This support has not only created economic value but also contributed to societal development, generating over 1 billion baht in added value.
With a vision to be a leading fund in enhancing the potential and support mechanisms for entrepreneurs and the technology and innovation business ecosystem to sustain growth, the TED Fund is gearing up for its initiatives in the year 2025. Mr. Wannee stated that for the funding projects to be implemented in 2025, the TED Fund aims to support Thai entrepreneurs in expanding their presence in the global market. The fund sets a target to support 270 new projects with a total budget of 273 million baht.
Empowering Youth Entrepreneurs
Among the various initiatives planned for 2025, one of the notable programs is the TED Youth Startup Social & Environmental Program. This program aims to provide funding to entrepreneurs focusing on social and environmental initiatives, aligning with the government’s policies. The goal is to support a total of 20 projects with a combined budget of 15 million baht. The funding will be divided into two programs: the Ideation Incentive Program (IDEA) for 10 projects with a budget of 1 million baht, and the Proof of Concept (POC) program for 10 projects with a budget of 14 million baht. Applications for these programs are set to open in mid-2025.
Mr. Wannee emphasized the importance of the TED Youth Startup Social & Environmental Program in addressing the challenges faced in the social and environmental sectors. By supporting innovative projects in these areas, the TED Fund aims to drive positive change and contribute to sustainable development in Thailand. The program seeks to empower youth entrepreneurs to create solutions that not only benefit society but also protect the environment for future generations.
Supporting Sustainable Startups
In addition to the TED Youth Startup Social & Environmental Program, the TED Fund is also focusing on other key initiatives to support sustainable startups. The Startups for Startups program aims to elevate the private sector’s ecosystem for sustainable entrepreneurship. With a target of 15 projects and a budget of 30 million baht, this program aims to foster a network of startups that can collaborate and support each other in their growth journey.
Moreover, the TED Market Scaling Up program targets 45 projects with a budget of 85.5 million baht. This initiative focuses on promoting market expansion and business development for technology and innovation entrepreneurs. By providing financial support and resources, the TED Fund aims to help startups scale their operations and reach new markets both locally and internationally.
Through these initiatives, the TED Fund is committed to fostering a conducive environment for startups to thrive and contribute to the overall economic and social development of Thailand. By supporting innovative and sustainable projects, the fund aims to drive growth, create employment opportunities, and enhance the competitiveness of Thai entrepreneurs in the global market.
Creating Impactful Change
The TED Fund’s efforts to support youth entrepreneurs and sustainable startups are expected to have a significant impact on Thailand’s economy and society. By investing in innovative projects that address social and environmental challenges, the fund is paving the way for a more sustainable and inclusive future. Through programs like the TED Youth Startup Social & Environmental Program, the TED Fund is empowering young entrepreneurs to make a positive difference in their communities and beyond.
As Thailand continues to embrace technology and innovation as key drivers of economic growth, the role of organizations like the TED Fund becomes increasingly crucial. By providing funding, mentorship, and support to budding entrepreneurs, the fund is enabling the next generation of innovators to bring their ideas to life and create lasting change. With a strong focus on sustainability and social impact, the TED Fund is leading the way in shaping a brighter future for Thailand’s startup ecosystem.
