Business & Startup Scene in Vientiane, Laos
1. Vientiane Center
Modern shopping mall with a wide range of international and local brands, also houses several cafes and restaurants. Solves the challenge of finding diverse retail options.
- International Brands: Offers popular international brands not found elsewhere in Vientiane
- Dining Options: Provides a variety of dining choices, from fast food to high-end restaurants
- Central Location: Conveniently located in the heart of Vientiane's commercial district
2. TechPark Laos
IT and startup hub offering co-working spaces, incubation programs, and networking events. Addresses the need for a supportive ecosystem for tech entrepreneurs.
- Incubation Programs: Offers tailored support for startups, including mentorship and resources
- Co-working Spaces: Provides flexible workspaces to encourage collaboration and innovation
- Networking Events: Hosts regular networking events to connect startups with investors, mentors, and potential partners
3. Laos International Trade Expo
Annual trade show featuring a wide range of products, services, and networking opportunities. Helps businesses expand their market reach in Laos and abroad.
- Product Variety: Showcases a diverse array of local and international goods
- Business Networking: Offers opportunities for businesses to connect with potential partners, suppliers, and customers
- Market Expansion: Provides a platform for businesses to explore new markets and learn about industry trends
4. Laos-Japan Technical Training Center
Vocational training center offering courses in various business-related fields, supported by the Japanese government. Helps bridge the skill gap in the Lao workforce.
- Skill Development: Provides training in high-demand areas such as IT, finance, and management
- Japanese Support: Receives support from the Japanese government, ensuring high-quality instruction
- Affordable Training: Offers affordable training options for Lao residents looking to upgrade their skills
5. Laos International Business School (LIBS)
University offering business and management degrees, with a focus on preparing students for the regional job market. Solves the challenge of access to quality education in business.
- Regional Focus: Curriculum is designed to meet the demands of the ASEAN region
- Quality Education: Led by experienced faculty with international qualifications
- Practical Experience: Offers internships and real-world project opportunities to students
6. Vientiane Business Association (VBA)
Business association representing various sectors in Vientiane, offering networking events, advocacy, and business advice. Addresses the need for a unified voice for businesses in Vientiane.
- Networking Opportunities: Hosts regular networking events to connect businesses with potential partners
- Advocacy: Represents the interests of its members to government agencies and regulatory bodies
- Business Advice: Provides advice on starting, growing, and managing a business in Vientiane
7. Vientiane Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI)
Chamber representing businesses across various sectors in Laos, offering training, networking, and advocacy. Addresses the challenge of navigating the complex business environment in Laos.
- Training Opportunities: Offers training programs for businesses on various topics, such as export/import regulations
- Networking Events: Hosts regular networking events to connect businesses with potential partners and clients
- Advocacy: Represents the interests of its members to government agencies and regulatory bodies, advocating for favorable policies
8. Vientiane Night Market
Open-air market selling a variety of goods, from clothing to electronics. Provides an opportunity for small businesses to sell their products to tourists and locals.
- Tourist Attraction: A popular tourist destination, attracting a high volume of visitors
- Local Products: Offers unique Lao handicrafts and souvenirs not found elsewhere
- Affordable Prices: Prices are generally lower compared to other retail outlets in Vientiane
9. Mekong Business Forum
Annual conference focusing on regional business trends, investment opportunities, and policy discussions. Addresses the need for businesses to stay informed about the ASEAN market.
- Regional Focus: Focuses on business opportunities in the Mekong region, including Laos
- Expert Speakers: Features industry experts and government officials as speakers
- Networking Opportunities: Offers opportunities for businesses to connect with potential partners, suppliers, and investors
10. Vientiane Coffee Shops
Coffee shops serving a variety of coffee drinks, providing a casual setting for meetings, work, or relaxation. Addresses the need for a comfortable space to relax and network.
- Casual Atmosphere: Offers a relaxed environment conducive to informal discussions and networking
- Good Coffee: Serves high-quality coffee drinks, some imported from neighboring countries
- Affordable Prices: Prices are generally affordable compared to Western standards
11. Vientiane Food Market
Large market selling fresh produce, meats, and seafood, as well as prepared foods. Offers an opportunity for food entrepreneurs to showcase their products.
- Fresh Produce: Sells a wide variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, and other produce
- Food Variety: Features a diverse range of prepared foods, from traditional Lao dishes to international cuisines
- Local Experience: Provides an authentic Lao market experience for visitors
12. Vientiane Startup Weekend
Annual event where participants form teams to develop and pitch business ideas. Addresses the challenge of connecting entrepreneurs with resources and potential partners.
- Idea Generation: Offers a platform for ideas to be developed, pitched, and refined
- Resource Access: Provides resources such as mentorship, workshops, and networking opportunities
- Potential Partners: Connects entrepreneurs with potential partners, investors, and mentors
13. Vientiane Business Incubator
Business incubator offering resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities to early-stage startups. Addresses the challenge of finding support for new businesses.
- Resources: Offers resources such as workspace, business advice, and training programs
- Mentorship: Provides mentorship from experienced entrepreneurs and industry experts
- Networking Opportunities: Offers opportunities for startups to connect with potential partners, investors, and customers
14. Vientiane Entrepreneurship Forum
Annual forum discussing entrepreneurship trends, challenges, and opportunities in Laos. Addresses the need for entrepreneurs to stay informed about the local business landscape.
- Insights: Provides insights into current trends and challenges facing entrepreneurs in Laos
- Networking Opportunities: Offers opportunities for entrepreneurs to connect with potential partners, investors, and mentors
- Expert Speakers: Features industry experts and government officials as speakers
15. Vientiane Startup Community
Online community for entrepreneurs in Vientiane, providing resources, support, and networking opportunities. Addresses the challenge of finding a supportive network for entrepreneurs.
- Resources: Offers resources such as business advice, templates, and case studies
- Supportive Network: Provides a supportive network of entrepreneurs who can offer advice and encouragement
- Networking Opportunities: Offers opportunities for entrepreneurs to connect with potential partners, investors, and mentors