Institute for Research and Development and NIA Launch “SidUP-Isan” to Drive Social Innovation in the Upper Northeastern Region

On May 15, 2026, the Institute for Research and Development, Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University, in collaboration with the National Innovation Agency (Public Organization) or NIA, launched the “Social Innovation Driving Unit for the Upper Northeastern Region (SidUP-Isan).”

The event aimed to promote and strengthen social innovation capacity among communities, social entrepreneurs, researchers, and network partners in the region. It also provided information on the 2026 call for social innovation project proposals in key areas, including food innovation, climate tech innovation, and digital innovation.

The program featured a discussion session on “Extending Ready-to-Use Innovations toward Value Creation in Communities,” along with experience sharing from four model projects that had previously received funding support. More than 66 participants attended the event.

This initiative marks an important step in driving social innovation through collaboration among the public sector, academic institutions, researchers, entrepreneurs, and communities to create positive local impact and support sustainable development.

This activity aligns with SDG 1: No Poverty, SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, and SDG 13: Climate Action.