The Mekong Institute (MI) was honored to participate in the Isan Creativity and Innovation Summit (ICIS) 2025, held from July 5–6 at Khon Kaen University, Thailand. Organized under the theme of promoting creativity, innovation, and soft power, the event gathered leaders from government, academia, the private sector, and development organizations to explore new pathways for inclusive economic growth in the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS).
Representing MI, Ms. Thongvone Sosamphan, Project Coordinator, delivered a presentation on “Innovation and Creative Economy of GMS Countries” as part of the summit’s academic conference on July 5. Her presentation shed light on ongoing regional initiatives supported by MI to strengthen micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) engaged in the Cultural and Creative Industries (CCI).
Drawing from MI’s project work in five Mekong heritage sites, Ms. Thongvone underscored the transformative potential of combining innovation, digitalization, and knowledge-sharing to uplift CCI entrepreneurs — particularly those preserving local heritage through crafts, design, storytelling, and performing arts.
“Our work focuses on turning cultural assets into economic opportunities,” Ms. Thongvone stated. “By equipping creative entrepreneurs with the skills, tools, and networks they need, we are supporting sustainable livelihoods while safeguarding the region’s unique cultural identity.”
Her remarks emphasized MI’s development approach: one that places community empowerment, sustainability, and cross-border collaboration at the core of regional advancement. The initiatives shared by Ms. Thongvone aim to address the dual challenges of cultural preservation and economic modernization by supporting local innovation ecosystems and expanding market access through digital platforms.
The ICIS 2025 summit served as a strategic platform to amplify these efforts, fostering dialogue on how cultural innovation can drive equitable development and reinforce the Mekong region’s identity in the global soft power landscape.
MI’s participation in ICIS 2025 reaffirms its commitment to supporting regional cooperation and integrated development in the GMS. By championing creative industries as drivers of inclusive growth, MI continues to contribute to shaping a more resilient and culturally vibrant Mekong.
