LOOKING BACK TO FINNOVATION BOOTCAMP | A JOURNEY OF OVERCOMING CHALLENGES AND SELF-DISCOVERY

“FinTechNovation Credentials aims to create an environment where students can develop innovative ideas, encouraging them to grasp the latest technological trends to address real-world challenges in the finance and banking industry. More importantly, the program equips students with essential skills for the 21st-century workforce: understanding and utilizing digital technology, problem-solving, design thinking, time management and efficiency, teamwork, and leadership. Students are encouraged to experiment, fail, and continuously improve in a safe and supportive environment. This is a journey of learning and development, empowering young people to confidently contribute to the growth of the fintech industry.”

"Finnovation Bootcamp" is one of three primary activities of the FinTechNovation Credentials, jointly organized by University of Economics Ho Chi Minh City and UOB Bank, with the support of the Singapore Business Federation and UOB Group. Centered around the theme "The Next Fintech Thing," the program seeks innovative solutions for businesses in the financial sector, encouraging students to apply knowledge into practice. It offers invaluable opportunities for young individuals to connect with industry experts and businesses, fostering growth and providing a launchpad for their future careers.

On the afternoon of August 24, 2024, Finnovation Bootcamp Final Round marked the conclusion of a challenging yet rewarding journey. This significant event was graced by the presence of esteemed experts from the fields of Technology, Innovation, Finance, and Banking in Vietnam, including Ms. Nguyen Thu Thao, Director of Strategic Development and OFEI (Office for Emerging Finance Initiatives) - Digital and Banking Services at UOB Vietnam; Ms. Nguyen Ngoc Phuong Uyen, Head of Digital Banking Engagement at UOB Vietnam; Mr. Vu Thanh Cong, Deputy General Director – In charge of Products and Digital Growth at M-Service; Mr. Jack Nguyen, Founder and CEO of BlockBase Ventures; and Dr. Le Khanh Duy, Robotics Expert and Advisor for the Technology and Innovation Program at UEH Innovation Institute.

THE MOST OUTSTANDING YOUNG INNOVATORS

With the participation of over 300 students from 24 universities across the city, Finnovation Bootcamp attracted 53 exceptional teams that successfully passed the rigorous selection round. After relentless efforts, 45 innovative ideas were conceived and developed. Ultimately, the top 15 teams were chosen to participate in the acceleration phase. Here, these teams received dedicated support from experts, totaling 1,260 minutes of in-depth consultations. Concurrently, the teams devoted 86 hours to collaborative work, demonstrating unwavering determination and creativity. They also participated in 2 workshops on Prototype Development and Presentation Skills, along with a knowledge seminar featuring insights from seasoned experts.

Over the past two months, top 15 teams have been immersed in the 4-day Intensive Bootcamp, enduring a period of continuous striving. Each individual within these teams has dedicated themselves to learning, innovating, and growing. The Finnovation Bootcamp is more than just a competition; it's a valuable experience where students can explore their potential, push their boundaries, and develop essential skills for the future.

Top 15 teams had the opportunity to participate in a field trip to The Sentry P, an inspiring co-working space. They not only experienced a dynamic and creative workspace but also motivated by sharings from Mr. Tung Phan, Founder & CEO of Teefi, about his entrepreneurial journey and financial education vision for children. Additionally, Ms. Thuy Hoang, COO & Co-Pioneer of The Sentry, shared profound perspectives on The Sentry's commitment to sustainability. This trip not only marked the beginning of the 4-day Intensive Bootcamp but also invigorated and inspired the participants for the challenges ahead.

Top 15 FinNovation Bootcamp Teams and Their Field Trip to The Sentry P

Throughout the 4-day Intensive Bootcamp, the teams gathered on the 15th Floor, a space designed to optimize creativity and enhance group interaction. Participants engaged in various activities such as Mentoring, Workshops, and Knowledge Seminars. The organizers provided tea breaks, lunches, and a modern working environment, creating the best conditions for participants to develop their ideas and perfect their projects.

Accompanying the teams throughout the 4 days were experienced mentors: Dr. Ngo Minh Vu, Lecturer at the Faculty of Finance; Dr. Do Tri Cuong, Lecturer at the Institute of Intelligent and Interactive Technology; Mr. Nguyen Minh Trieu, Manager of OpenLab at UEH Institute of Intelligent and Interactive Technology; Mr. Tran Nhat Hoang, Deputy Director of the Technology and Design Training Center; Ms. Nguyen Thi Phuong Thao - Vice Director of UEH Institute of Innovation; Mr. Huynh Ngoc Quang Anh, Lecturer at UEH Institute of Innovation; Ms. Vu Thi Minh Giang, Lecturer at UEH Institute of Innovation; Mr. Ngo Dang Hoan Thien, Incubator Manager at UEH Institute of Innovation; and Mr. Nguyen Dang Trung, CEO of TagEdu. With their dedicated guidance across various fields such as business, technology, innovation, and finance, the mentors helped the teams refine and orient their ideas and solutions, ensuring the feasibility and creativity of each project.

Finally, the most significant milestone of the Finnovation Bootcamp arrived – the Final Pitching round. This was the moment when the teams demonstrated their ability to persuasively present their solutions to the judging panel, showcasing their confidence, a growth mindset, and striving to surpass their own limits.

The teams presented their solutions to the judging panel

FinNovation Bootcamp successfully found 6 excellent winning teams, and 1 winning team in the Happy Team category: 

GLORY TECH – Champion of FinNovation Bootcamp

FINNZ – Runner-up of FinNovation Bootcamp

FINFORCE & FINTASTIC – Third Prize Winning Teams of FinNovation Bootcamp

THE BLOSSOM & EMIUMĐC – The teams that won the Consolation Prize of FinNovation Bootcamp

IAT – The team won the Happy Team award – an award for the team that captured the most memorable moments during their time at FinNovation Bootcamp.

During this journey, students not only accumulated professional knowledge but also practiced teamwork skills, creative thinking, and the ability to adapt to real-life challenges. Difficulties became opportunities for them to explore and develop themselves, turning differences into advantages. This summer, they dared to be different, to step out of their comfort zones, and to demonstrate their abilities.

In addition to the rewards, Top 4 at FinNovation Bootcamp will be directly selected to the UII Sandbox Program 2024. This is a valuable opportunity for them to continue to develop and turn their ideas into reality, with 10 weeks of incubation as a real startup.

The FinTechNovation Credentials Organizers believe that the experiences and knowledge you have gained will be valuable assets, accompanying you on the journey ahead. We wish you success and continue to maintain the spirit of learning, creativity, and constant striving.

Some other images of the program:

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“FinTechNovation Credentials” is an initiative co-organized by UEH, UOB Vietnam, with the support of Singapore Business Federation (SBF) and UOB Group, implemented by UEH Institute of Innovation. The program includes training courses, intensive coaching and incubation for projects in the fields of Technology, Finance and Banking.