Rajamangala University of Technology Srivijaya (RUTS) supports the development of local start-ups and businesses by providing entrepreneurial training in the food and machinery sectors, promoting the adoption of technology and innovation, and monitoring the application of research outcomes in local communities. These initiatives aim to strengthen the knowledge and practical capabilities needed for business development while expanding access to the university’s research and expertise. Through these activities, the university seeks to foster entrepreneurship, enhance local economic opportunities, and support sustainable business growth in Southern Thailand.
Developing Entrepreneurship in Food Innovation
On 27–28 April 2025, the Office of Innovation Management and Technology Transfer organized a training program entitled Food Innovation Management for Professional Entrepreneurship at Songkhla Ballroom, BP Samila Beach Hotel, Songkhla Province. The activity was conducted under the Reinventing University project, with the source document identifying its budget year as fiscal year 2024. The program focused on developing knowledge and competencies in food innovation management to prepare participants for professional entrepreneurship and support the development of food-related businesses.
Accelerating Business Growth through the Tech Accelerator Platform
The Business Acceleration Platform (BAP) team under the Office of Innovation Management and Technology Transfer organized the Local Ingredient Foods and Machinery Boot Camp as part of the Tech Accelerator Platform research project. The initiative aims to develop a platform that accelerates business growth through technology and innovation in Southern Thailand.
The first boot camp was held on 28–29 May 2025, followed by the second on 2–3 August 2025. Both activities took place at Siva Royal Hotel in Phatthalung Province.
The third boot camp was subsequently held on 6–7 November 2025 at the same venue. These activities form part of the university’s efforts to strengthen entrepreneurial capabilities and encourage local businesses to apply technology and innovation in developing products, improving production processes, and expanding business opportunities.
On 7 May 2025, the project team visited Khuan Sato Subdistrict Administrative Organization in Khuan Don District, Satun Province, to monitor a technology-transfer initiative involving a network of mushroom farmers. Assistant Professor Kitisak Chumthong, the project leader, presented the application of appropriate technologies to improve product quality and address production challenges. The initiative aims to support farmers’ income-generating opportunities and strengthen livelihood security [1].
By supporting food entrepreneurs, machinery-related businesses, and community-based producers, RUTS promotes opportunities for economic participation and self-reliance. These efforts may contribute to poverty reduction by improving business capacity and supporting more sustainable livelihoods. The documented activities include entrepreneurship training, three boot camps under the Tech Accelerator Platform, and the monitoring of seven research projects, including a field visit to a mushroom-farming network in Satun Province.