The 2025 Sao Khuê Awards, renowned as one of the most prestigious accolades for information technology (IT) advancements, were officially launched on January 6, 2025, at a press conference held by the Vietnam Software and IT Services Association (VINASA) in Hanoi. Established under the auspices of the Ministry of Information and Communications, the Sao Khuê Awards have been celebrating excellence since 2003. This annual event endeavors to recognize and honor outstanding individuals, businesses, and technologies within the industry.
Over the past two decades, the Sao Khuê Awards have celebrated over 1,715 entries, showcasing exceptional IT products and services. The awards aim to spotlight digital platforms and solutions, reinforcing Vietnam's nationwide goal of digital transformation. Each year, between 150 and 180 frameworks and services are recognized for their contribution to tech innovation and public service improvement.
Nguyễn Thị Thu Giang, Vice President and General Secretary of VINASA, highlighted the importance of these awards, which serve not only as recognition but also as misdirection for companies to innovate and compete within the burgeoning digital market. "We have pioneered the task of seeking and honoring excellent digital platforms and services, providing them visibility among government agencies, organizations, and the public," she expressed at the launch.
This year, the Sao Khuê Awards have introduced nine categories, accommodating the diverse fields of digital technology. These categories include:
- Government and Public Sector: Recognizing outstanding IT solutions enhancing management and public service quality.
- Community and Citizens: Highlighting products and projects improving life quality and reducing digital gaps.
- Business Management: Focusing on IT platforms aiding business management and operational efficiency across industries.
- Economics – Industry: Celebrations for solutions aiding automation and competitiveness within major economic fields.
- Market and Consumption: Promoting digital solutions transforming active market dynamics.
- Infrastructure and Digital Technology: Awarding outstanding digital infrastructures and advanced technology applications.
- Innovation: Recognizing startups and platforms advocating innovative approaches and technologies.
- New Products and Services: Celebrations for groundbreaking software, solutions, and services.
- Digital Services: Highlighting commendable digital services driving transformation.
The Sao Khuê Awards are set to accept applications until March 20, 2025, exclusively through their online channel at https://dangky.giaithuongsaokhue.vn. The awards ceremony will take place on April 19, 2025, in Hanoi, attended by over 700 distinguished guests, including senior officials from various ministries, large corporations, as well as numerous media representatives.
This award aims not just to commend local enterprises but to advance Vietnam's position on the global technology stage. Winners of the Sao Khuê Awards will be invited to participate in various forums, seminars, and significant tech events organized by VINASA, such as the Vietnam – Asia Smart City Conference and the Vietnam DX Summit. These events will provide opportunities for award recipients to broaden their market reach and connect with potential clients.
To maximize the awards’ impact, the organizing committee plans to intensify promotional activities and collaboration efforts. Activities aimed at introducing relevant digital solutions federally will be emphasized, particularly focusing on pivotal sectors like manufacturing, agriculture, and e-commerce. Award-winning products will participate in panel discussions and podcasts with experts, fostering closer engagement with the technology community and users.
“The goal is to create synergy between the winners and the market, enabling these extraordinary solutions to penetrate more deeply and serve our community effectively,” added Giang during her announcement.
Clearly, as Vietnam embarks on its ambitious digital transformation agenda fueled by recent decrees, such as Politburo Resolution No. 57-NQ/TW signed by General Secretary Tô Lâm, the Sao Khuê Awards position themselves at the forefront of this revolution. Emphasizing integration and international outreach, the awards will help awardees connect through about 20 trade promotion missions, international trade fairs, and technology forums across key global markets, including Japan, Korea, Europe, and burgeoning markets like China and Taiwan.
The Sao Khuê Awards will undoubtedly serve as the landing pad for Vietnam’s innovative software products, bridging the gap between local solutions and international competition. The commitment to visibility and market orientation fuels hopes for many as Vietnam strives for recognition on the global technological map.