National Innovation Agency

National Innovation Agency (Public Organization) or "NIA" under the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation of Thailand, is the operational core organization to enhance Thailand innovation system. NIA acts as the key system integrator that facilitates and drives the whole national innovation system in 5 aspects both locally and internationally. This includes innovation policy, innovation capabilities, innovation ecosystem, innovation project, and recognition on innovation Thailand. Startup has become one of NIA's target group due to its potential to harness innovation and to drive Thailand's economic growth. Accordingly, NIA provides comprehensive supports for startup development in Thailand including seed grants, business consultancy, SMART VISA, and market exposure. NIA also launched "Startup Thailand Centre" to be a one-stop-service for both local and international startups, who want to set up their businesses in Thailand. NIA also hosts Thailand's biggest startup event, "Startup Thailand" with more than 60,000 visitors in 2018 event, to promote the international partnership and development of startup ecosystem in Thailand.