The Science Park of Khon Kaen University, in collaboration with the Science Parks of Ubon Ratchathani University and Mahasarakham University, has strengthened its support for north-eastern entrepreneurs entering modern retail markets. A cohort of entrepreneurs developed under the technology business development initiative was selected to showcase and sell their products at the “2nd Tops Thongthin Open House 2026: Scouting the Best of 4 Regions”. Held from 5 to 7 June 2026 at Central Khon Kaen Shopping Centre, the event aimed to provide local entrepreneurs with market linkage opportunities, business networking, and pathways to domestic and international distribution channels.
During the event, Professor Thidarut Boonmars, D.V.M., Ph.D., Vice President for Enterprise and Societal Sustainability at Khon Kaen University, highlighted the importance of supporting entrepreneurs through the application of science, technology, and innovation, noting that such integration strengthens competitive capabilities and supports knowledge-based economic growth. Dr Apirachai Wongsriworaphon, Director of the Science Park at Khon Kaen University, also attended to offer encouragement to the participating entrepreneurs.
The opening ceremony was presided over by Mr Brian Hill (Chirathivat), Head of International Business and Partnerships at Central Food Retail, alongside Mr Sarawut Sukloerttrakul, Khon Kaen Region 1 Director of the Government Savings Bank (GSB), who outlined their respective institutional roles in supporting Thai entrepreneurs and expanding market opportunities. Associate Professor Chawalit Thinvongpituk, Director of the Science Park Project at Ubon Ratchathani University, and Associate Professor Kiattisak Sriprouteep, PhD, Manager of the University–Industry Cooperation Centre at Mahasarakham University Science Park, also participated, sharing strategic approaches to supporting regional science park networks as drivers of the country’s innovation-based economy. 
The “Tops Thongthin Open House 2026” offers entrepreneurs a platform for direct business negotiations with the Tops procurement team through Business Matching activities, with the chance to have their products selected for nationwide distribution through the Tops network. Exclusive Talk sessions provide further industry insights from successful entrepreneurs, building the commercial knowledge and business acumen of emerging entrepreneurs.
Dr Apirachai Wongsriworaphon, Director of the Science Park at Khon Kaen University, stated that this event reflects the pivotal role of the KKU Science Park as a central hub connecting knowledge, technology, and innovation with the business sector. This initiative creates new opportunities for Thai entrepreneurs to develop products, add value to commodities, and expand their competitive potential in both national and international markets, ultimately strengthening the country’s foundational and innovation-driven economies in a sustainable manner.
The project aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), by supporting entrepreneurs and generating new business opportunities; SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), by promoting the use of science, technology, and innovation to create value-added products and services; and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), reflecting multi-sectoral collaboration between universities, the private sector, and financial institutions in building conditions conducive to the growth of Thai entrepreneurs and long-term sustainable development.
News/Photos: Section of Enterprise and Societal Sustainability, Khon Kaen University
