The Green Startup Study Tour organized by BSA took place on the morning of November 28 at TIM Corp, offering young entrepreneurs practical exposure to technology, agricultural products, and new development directions for the F&B sector through the lens of Vietnamese cacao.
As Vietnam’s economy continues to grow dynamically, small and medium-sized enterprises and the start-up community remain a fundamental force driving resilience and innovation. These are the individuals who tirelessly create products, generate jobs, and nurture the belief that Vietnamese people can create meaningful value on Vietnamese soil. Programs like Green Startup play a vital role in connecting resources, sharing knowledge, and fostering creativity within the young business community.
TIM Corp – A Modern R&D Space Supporting Young Entrepreneurs
During the study tour, Mr. Trần Dương Xuân Vũ – Founder & CEO of TIM Corp – personally welcomed the delegation and shared the company’s vision for supporting start-ups. He expressed that TIM Corp has long followed and highly valued BSA’s Green Startup program, as it remains one of the rare initiatives in Vietnam offering professional support for small businesses and start-ups. Hosting the delegation at TIM Corp’s Lab system and R&D Center reflects both the company’s appreciation for BSA and its aspiration to contribute to the ecosystem through science, technology, and practical research-based solutions.
The delegation had the opportunity to explore the cacao garden located within the TIM Corp campus, learning about cultivation techniques and the development journey of Vietnamese cacao. The Lab system – featuring ChocoLab, Dairy Lab, Bakery Lab, Coffee Lab, Beverages Lab, and the F&B Experience Center – provided a comprehensive view of the product development pathway, from raw ingredients to formula testing and final F&B applications.
Discovering the “Bean to Bar” Journey Through a Chocolate Workshop Led by an International Expert
One of the highlights of the study tour was the chocolate workshop conducted by Mr. Olivier Nicod, a French expert with over 25 years of experience. During the session, he walked participants through the full “bean to bar” journey, helping young entrepreneurs understand each step from cacao bean to finished chocolate bar. The production process at TIM Corp was demonstrated using specialized equipment such as roasters, winnowers, and the Tono Ice technology—introduced for the first time in Vietnam—to create chocolate with a thin shell, smooth filling, and distinctive flavor.
Beyond techniques, the workshop offered deeper insights into the value of Vietnamese agricultural products. Mr. Olivier Nicod praised the quality of Bến Tre cacao and emphasized the pivotal role of farmers within the chocolate value chain. Additionally, local ingredients such as coconut nectar wine and palm sugar were incorporated into TIM Corp’s chocolate creations, contributing to the storytelling of Vietnamese agriculture through a modern and emotive lens.
A Study Tour that Bridges Young Entrepreneurs with Real Market Opportunities
According to Ms. Vũ Kim Anh – Deputy Director of BSA – this study tour was designed as a “touch – see – understand” experience, allowing start-ups to directly engage with technologies, production models, and product-development mindsets. By observing real-world operations at TIM Corp, young entrepreneurs gained broader perspectives on agricultural products from the Mekong Delta—especially cacao—and how technology and experiential learning can elevate product value.
BSA’s study tours have long served as a crucial bridge that helps young businesses stay aligned with emerging trends, refine their products, and seek potential collaborations. With TIM Corp’s participation, this journey becomes even more complete, as businesses come together to support each other toward sustainable development.
TIM Corp’s Commitment to Supporting Vietnam’s SME and Start-Up Ecosystem
The study tour at TIM Corp not only offered practical experiences but also reinforced confidence in the power of collaboration. TIM Corp believes that the growth of SMEs and start-ups is fueled by knowledge sharing, technological connection, and a spirit of “businesses supporting businesses.” We would like to extend our sincere thanks to BSA, Ms. Kim Hạnh, Ms. Kim Anh, and the entire Green Startup delegation for an inspiring and meaningful day.
In the coming period, TIM Corp will continue to leverage its strengths in science, technology, research, and application to support young enterprises in perfecting product quality, elevating standards, and confidently entering the market—together building a more innovative, prosperous, and compassionate Vietnam.