[Infographic] New financial mechanism for strategic technologies
With new mechanisms, Circular No. 49/2026/TT-BKHCN aims to transform how the State utilizes financial resources to advance strategic technologies.
The Minister of Science and Technology has signed and promulgated Circular No. 49/2026/TT-BKHCN issued and effective from August 1, 2026, stipulating financial mechanisms for research and development tasks on strategic technologies under the special national science, technology, and innovation program on strategic technologies.
6 notable highlights:
Heavy investment in high-quality human resources
Remuneration is determined based on position, responsibility, capacity, and deliverables. Chief Engineers can receive up to 300 million VND/month, and Project Leaders up to 150 million VND/month. Domestic and international experts can be hired at market rates, earning up to 300 million VND/month depending on operational needs and project proposals.
Results-based budget management
Resources are allocated based on work packages and milestones, linked directly to progress, deliverables, and outcomes. The "Go/No-Go" mechanism allows projects to be continued, adjusted, or terminated based on actual results.
Allowing experimentation across multiple technology pathways
Multiple independent research approaches can be conducted simultaneously to test, screen, and select the most effective solution.
Mobilizing broader societal resources
Enterprises, organizations, and individuals can participate through counterpart contributions in the form of cash, equipment, infrastructure, technology, intellectual property, and other legitimate resources.
Accepting controlled risks
Technology research is acknowledged to involve risks, provided there is strict accountability, post-auditing, and budget control to ensure alignment with objectives and regulatory compliance.
Ultimate goal The focus is shifting
from input-based financial management to outcome-based investment, creating space for scientists, experts, and enterprises to pursue new, complex, and potentially breakthrough technological challenges.
The ultimate vision is to master technology, create products, promote technology transfer and commercialization, and enhance national autonomy and global competitiveness./.
Copyright belongs to the Vietnam Journal of Science and Technology (VJST-MOST)