Science and tech funding disbursement set to accelerate
The Ministry of Science and Technology is making efforts to increase the national disbursement rate of funds allocated to science and technology innovation and digital transformation to increase efficiency and promote innovation and the commercialisation of research results
The national disbursement rate for science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation funds hit nearly 42 percent by October 26, with provinces contributing almost 38.5 percent. This data was unveiled during a Ministry of Science and Technology conference on October 27, attended virtually by provincial departments of science and technology.
The conference aimed to evaluate the progress of fund distribution, exchange experiences, and discuss challenges in these sectors. Hoang Thi Phuong Luu, director general of the MST's Department of Planning and Finance, reported that the total budgeted expenditure for science, technology, and innovation across the nation as of October 26 amounted to around VND52.7 trillion ($2.1 billion).
Disbursements have reached VND21.7 trillion ($867.6 million), representing 41.2 percent of the total. Locally, the allocated budget exceeds VND28 trillion ($1.12 billion), with 38.5 percent disbursed, prompting local authorities to intensify implementation efforts. Disbursement rates varied by sector, with 47.15 percent for science, 27.5 percent for innovation, and approximately 30 percent for digital transformation.
Funding sources showed a disbursement rate of nearly 44 percent for development investment expenditure. Seven localities - Thai Nguyen, Hue, Tuyen Quang, Can Tho, Quang Tri, Khanh Hoa, and Danang - achieved a disbursement rate of 50 percent or higher. Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi make up 44 percent of the local government sector's total disbursement value.
Participants discussed measures to expedite task implementation in the final months of the year while ensuring funds are used appropriately and linked to specific outcomes. The Law on Science, Technology, and Innovation mandates focused state budget allocations in this sector, emphasizing task results and effectiveness. Decree 267/2025/ND-CP sets a 120-day deadline for task proposal submission to contract signing.
The Law also grants the state rights to manage, utilize, and own task results, based on funding provided. Organizing tasks is differentiated between commissioned tasks addressing local challenges and grant-funded projects supporting businesses in technological innovation. The National Digital Transformation Agency clarifies investor liability in price quotation processes and concurrent approval of detailed designs and cost estimates.
To meet 2026 targets, localities are urged to identify and address delays in disbursement promptly and strengthen collaboration with businesses and associations to foster innovation and digital transformation projects.
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