Chulalongkorn University took a major step toward placing Thai startups on the European map during Viva Technology 2026, held in Paris from June 15 to 19. The university’s CU Innovation Hub used the global gathering to forge alliances spanning accelerators, quantum computing firms, and academic institutions.
The move signals Bangkok’s growing ambition to plug into deep tech and venture networks beyond Southeast Asia. As competition for high-value innovation intensifies worldwide, universities increasingly function as bridges between local research and global capital. Chulalongkorn sees itself as that connector for Thailand.
Meetings with France’s WILCO accelerator produced plans for a Chula–French Acceleration Track. WILCO, which has backed more than 1,500 startups, would assist Thai ventures with soft-landing support, market validation, and investor matchmaking across Europe.
Meanwhile, talks with Carve Startup Labs focused on a Cross-border Soft Landing initiative and co-incubation program. The aim: create two-way pathways for entrepreneurs moving between Asian and European markets.
The delegation also met Business France Thailand to explore startup exchange programs. Discussions centered on French Tech, Station F, and Paris&Co as entry points for Thai founders. Deep tech sectors including HealthTech, GreenTech, and FoodTech drew particular attention.
Quantum computing entered the conversation through Pasqal, a European leader in the field. Company representatives voiced interest in piloting projects within Thailand’s innovation ecosystem. A separate meeting with SimpleIP covered integrated intellectual property management platforms.
Academic partnerships rounded out the agenda. Pôle PSL Innovation, part of Université PSL, and Rice University’s Global Paris Center discussed joint incubation, researcher exchanges, and advanced research collaboration.
Chulalongkorn now aims to convert these dialogues into concrete opportunities. The expected outcome: stronger international competitiveness for Thai innovation-driven businesses and a clearer route into Europe’s startup economy.
