Bangkok:The National Innovation Agency has revealed that Thai innovation has significantly impacted the nation, generating over 138 billion baht and positioning Thailand as an emerging Innovation Nation on the global stage. This announcement was made as part of the National Innovation Day 2026 celebrations, which also honored the innovative contributions of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej through various projects.
According to Thai News Agency, the event, organized by the National Innovation Agency under the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, marked the 22nd year of the National Innovation Awards. These awards celebrate innovators and projects that convert creative ideas into impactful solutions, addressing issues from health technologies and carbon reduction to digital platforms and youth innovations.
Since the inception of the awards, over 6,736 projects have been submitted, with more than 370 receiving recognition. These initiatives have collectively contributed over 138 billion baht in economic, social, and environmental benefits, demonstrating the practical application of Thai innovation.
Deputy Prime Minister Professor Dr. Yotsanun Wongsawat emphasized the importance of developing human capital to build an innovative nation. He outlined plans to support innovation through accelerating government procurement processes, fostering public-private investments, and enhancing research capabilities. The goal is to transform Thailand from a technology user to a creator of innovation and added value.
Dr. Kritphaka Boonfueng, Director of the National Innovation Agency, highlighted that the National Innovation Award serves as a platform for raising awareness and pride in Thai innovation while reflecting its adaptation to global changes.
The 2026 awards received 437 entries across various sectors, showcasing innovations in health, industry, energy, and digital business. Notable projects included brain cancer classification technology from Mahidol University and microbial enzyme innovations from BIOTEC. The NIA aims to connect innovation stakeholders through its Groom - Grant - Growth - Global strategy to enhance Thailand's competitiveness.
The results for the National Innovation Awards 2026 included winners in economic, social, and environmental categories, as well as awards for innovation communicators and innovative organizations. Significant projects recognized included Buzzybees Co., Ltd.'s customer relationship solution, Perceptra Co., Ltd.'s Inspectra MMG, and PTT LNG Co., Ltd.'s cold climate plant innovation.
The Thai Rice Innovation Awards 2026, conducted by the Thai Rice Foundation in collaboration with NIA, also celebrated achievements in industrial and community enterprise groups, further illustrating Thailand's commitment to leveraging innovation for national growth and development.