Thailand
Chulalongkorn University Partners with Founder Institute to Launch Global Startup Bootcamp: Chulalongkorn University has joined hands with the Founder Institute to launch the “Go Global Startup Bootcamp: Chula – DC Silicon Startup Bridge,” a landmark initiative aimed at preparing Thai startups to compete on the global stage.
The program, spearheaded by the university’s Innovation Hub, is designed to connect emerging entrepreneurs with international markets, particularly in the United States, while strengthening Thailand’s position in the global innovation ecosystem.
Driving Thai Startups to Global Markets
The orientation for the bootcamp was held on December 18–19, 2025, bringing together academic leaders, entrepreneurs, and industry experts. Vilelert Poorivac, President of Chulalongkorn University, inaugurated the program, emphasizing its role in elevating Thai startups beyond national boundaries.
“This initiative will propel Thai startups onto the global stage, connecting innovation from Thailand to Silicon Valley and beyond,” he said, highlighting the importance of international collaboration in fostering economic growth and innovation.
Vice President Pornanong Aramvit added that the program reflects the university’s commitment to nurturing innovation-driven enterprises capable of generating global impact and revenue for Thailand.
Industry Insights and Global Expertise
A key highlight of the event was a panel discussion on “Winning Go-to-Market Strategy for Global Scale,” featuring Guc Ozenci, Managing Director of the Founder Institute in Washington, D.C.; Chonchayong Trairatkayoon, CEO and Founder of INCREDEBLE Juice, Inc.; and Jittima Laknakul, Director of the Chulalongkorn University Innovation Center.
Ozenci highlighted the strength of the Founder Institute’s global network, which includes over 8,000 companies across more than 200 cities, offering Thai startups access to mentorship, funding opportunities, and international partnerships.
A Gateway to Silicon Valley and Washington D.C.
The bootcamp will guide startups through a structured development pathway, with participation from entrepreneurs nationwide and 33 selected spin-off teams from Chulalongkorn University. The program aims to equip participants with the tools, knowledge, and connections needed to scale internationally.
Top-performing teams will earn the opportunity to participate in startup and tech events in the United States, including exposure to innovation hubs in Silicon Valley and Washington, D.C.
Strengthening Thailand’s Innovation Ecosystem
The collaboration marks a significant step in bridging Thailand’s academic research capabilities with global startup ecosystems. By leveraging the expertise of the Founder Institute and Chulalongkorn University’s research-driven approach, the initiative seeks to elevate Thai startups to international standards.
As Thailand continues to invest in innovation and entrepreneurship, programs like the “Go Global Startup Bootcamp” are expected to play a pivotal role in transforming local ideas into globally competitive ventures, reinforcing the country’s position in the global digital economy.
