Cambodia advances national research funding mechanisms to strengthen innovation ecosystem

PHNOM PENH, Mar. 27, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodia has taken a significant step toward strengthening its innovation ecosystem with the launch of national research funding mechanisms, officials said Friday.

Speaking at the opening of a technical workshop on research and development financing, Hem Vanndy, Minister of Industry, Science, Technology and Innovation and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the National Research Foundation, described the establishment of the fund as a historic milestone. “This progress reflects the Royal Government’s commitment to supporting research and development with transparency, sustainability and effectiveness,” he said.

The workshop, held as part of National Science, Technology and Innovation Day 2026, gathered regional experts to share experiences on funding models and governance of research systems. Vanndy noted ASEAN states are increasingly prioritizing investment in R&D to generate new knowledge and enhance value added products and services.

He acknowledged challenges including insufficient investment, weak infrastructure, limited alignment with national priorities and private sector needs, and inadequate linkages between institutions and enterprises.

Eng Netra, Executive Director of the Cambodia Development Resource Institute, said CDRI has secured three year funding from Canada to provide technical assistance to the foundation, aiming to strengthen research capacity, improve absorption of financing and promote evidence based policymaking.

The National Research Fund will support both public and private institutions, promote human capital development and foster collaboration, contributing to Cambodia’s transition toward an innovation driven economy.