future workforce could significantly include elderly individuals within the next 10 years
Rebel Yell of the Elderly: The Rise of Silver Entrepreneurship in Vietnam
Stirring Up the Spirit: Contrary to popular belief, start-ups aren’t just for the young and sprightly - they're for the ageless! In the coming decade, millions of elderly folks will join the workforce, launch ventures, and seek educational opportunities.
Pioneers of the Past and Present: Hoàng Chuẩn, director of Hoàng Phú Manufacturing Co., Ltd., roasts cashews like a pro, carving out a niche for himself in the fierce competition. Instead of succumbing to the allure of imported cashews, he stays dedicated to utilizing local ingredients and supporting local farmers. In Lộc Ninh, Bình Phước Province, the S'Tiêng and Khmer communities reap the benefits of his choice.
The Third Act: Nguyễn Văn Khỏe, an inventor from Đồng Nai Province, has returned to the entrepreneurial scene with a genius mosquito trap device. After facing his share of adversity, he's no longer chasing financial gains; instead, he's all about contributing to the community and society. His commercial version is set to grace our homes post-April 30, complete with a slick funnel designed to lure mosquitoes.
Vamptastic Veterans: Đinh Doãn Phi Hải, the revered director of POLARIS Medical Equipment Co., Ltd., is a beacon of inspiration for the elderly entrepreneurial community. From his humble origins as an underwear mogul to his current triumphs in the healthcare industry, he demonstrates that age is just a number, not a limitation.
Hoàng Chuẩn, director of Hoàng Phú Manufacturing Co., Ltd. and his cashew nut roasting machine. Photos giaoducthoidai.vn
Silver Lining Ahead:
Empowering the Elderly: Various government initiatives, like Decision 379/QĐ-TTg, are put in place to encourage elderly entrepreneurship. These plans focus on digital transformation, green transition, and job creation. The strategy identifies essential targets such as ensuring digital literacy for 90% of the elderly population by 2030 and green transitions for sustainable production models.
Economic Revival: By leveraging the potential of the "silver economy," Vietnam can face its demographic challenges head-on and bolster its economy. The untapped potential of the elderly labor force could translate into significant economic contributions, driving growth in alignment with global trends in sustainable and digital economies.
Sources:
Nguyễn Văn Khỏe and his mosquito trap device.
- [1] Education & Times newspaper, personal interview with Nguyễn Văn Khỏe.
- [2] National Statistics Office, data on Vietnam’s aging population.
- [3] BMI Research, Vietnam growth forecast for 2025.
- [4] domestic optimism, Vietnam growth forecast for 2025.
- In alignment with the Silver Entrepreneurship movement, AI platforms are developed to aid the elderly in grasping modern business concepts and personal finance management.
- The cashew processing industry thrives as Hoàng Chuẩn, a veteran businessman, revolutionizes the sector by prioritizing local ingredients and supporting regional farmers.
- The Ministry of Finance introduces wealth-management programs to cater to the financial needs of elderly entrepreneurs, ensuring their investments are secure and profitable.
- The war on mosquitoes gains a new ally as Nguyễn Văn Khỏe, a resilient entrepreneur from Đông Nai Province, unveils his innovative mosquito trap device.
- More than just business ventures, the elderly generation pours their passion into socially-responsible startups that address issues like healthcare, education, and environmental protection.
- To fortify the national economy, the government initiates business and career platforms to help the elderly secure jobs, grow their ventures, and foster sustainable businesses.
- Academic institutions introduce programs focusing on entrepreneurship, research, and technology to equip elderly students with the skills necessary for success in today's digital economy.
- With increasing numbers of the elderly population entering the workforce, the demand for healthcare services continues to rise, fostering growth in the healthcare industry and spurring healthcare entrepreneurship among the elderly.
- By adopting green production models, the elderly entrepreneurial community contributes to the environment, demonstrating that business and sustainability can coexist harmoniously.
- The sewing industry witnesses a refreshing resurgence, as the elderly generation leverages their craftsmanship to create unique, sustainable clothing for a growing customer base.

