The Thailand RISE Fund represents a significant evolution in the nation's approach to research funding, shifting focus from academic output to real-world economic and social impact. Announced at the Thailand RISE Fund Forum: RISE UP THAILAND, hosted in collaboration with Chulalongkorn University, the initiative aims to accelerate the transition of research from laboratories to practical applications that enhance national competitiveness.
Professor Dr Wilert Puriwat, President of Chulalongkorn University, emphasized that national advancement depends on transforming knowledge into coordinated systems. "A country advances not simply because it produces knowledge, but because it can transform knowledge into a coordinated system that connects policy, research, innovation, and industry," he stated. This perspective underscores the fund's goal of moving research beyond theoretical publication to deliver measurable benefits.
The initiative addresses a critical challenge identified by national leaders: while Thailand's research output has expanded over the past decade, translating that knowledge into tangible value remains essential. Asst Professor Dr Ake Pattaratanakun, Chairman of the Thailand RISE Fund Strategic Communications Subcommittee, explained that the fund is designed as a systemic intermediary. "Thailand RISE Fund is intended to serve as a systemic intermediary, linking research to real economic needs and focusing on proof of impact rather than publication numbers," he said. This represents a strategic shift from quantity to quality and applicability.
Building a cohesive national innovation system requires stronger coordination across sectors. Professor Dr Sompong Klaynongsruang, President of Thailand Science Research and Innovation (TSRI), highlighted the importance of systematic development. "The development of Thailand's science, research and innovation system must be driven systematically - from strategic policy and targeted funding to the practical use of research outcomes in the economy and society," she noted. Cooperation among universities, government agencies, and the private sector is identified as key to achieving meaningful national transformation.
The Thailand RISE Fund operates under a strategic framework built on four pillars: Research, Innovation, Science Excellence, and Ecosystem. The ecosystem pillar specifically emphasizes partnerships among universities, businesses, government agencies, and communities to support a comprehensive innovation economy. This structured approach aims to create a more integrated and effective research-to-application pipeline.
To ensure nationwide participation, the fund is expanding engagement through regional forums and outreach activities. These efforts are designed to help researchers and entrepreneurs develop collaborative projects aligned with local economic strengths, moving from a centralized funding model toward a more inclusive and distributed innovation ecosystem. This geographical expansion could democratize innovation opportunities across Thailand's regions.
The ultimate vision of the Thailand RISE Fund is to transform the role of research in national development. "Our vision is to move Thai research from 'research for journals' to 'research for the nation,'" Dr. Ake said. By focusing on measurable impact and long-term value creation, the initiative seeks to strengthen Thailand's global competitiveness while supporting sustainable economic and social development. The fund's success could serve as a model for other developing economies seeking to maximize the return on research investment.
Thailand Science Research and Innovation (TSRI), the government agency overseeing this initiative, was founded to ensure effective application of strategic policies for science, research, and innovation. More information about TSRI's role in promoting and advancing the national research system can be found at https://tsri.or.th/. The original announcement was published on www.newmediawire.com.
