Thailand’s National Innovation Agency (NIA) has significantly advanced its commitment to green technology by selecting four promising sustainability-focused startups, aiming to cultivate 1–2 homegrown “unicorns” (startups valued over $1 billion) within the next three years. These companies specialize in critical areas such as artificial intelligence (AI), energy efficiency, and carbon management, positioning Thailand as a burgeoning hub for global green innovation.
The selected trailblazers include Vekin, a developer of AI-powered carbon auditing tools; AltoTech.AI, a provider of smart energy management systems; MUI Robotics, focused on industrial robotics and environmental monitoring; and Ion Energy, a leader in solar energy solutions. This initiative underscores the Thai government’s strategic vision to foster a new generation of enterprises capable of competing effectively on the international stage.
Vekin distinguishes itself with its AI and blockchain integration for comprehensive sustainability performance measurement, particularly in energy and carbon asset management. Its flagship AI Carbon Auditor, a recipient of the 2023 Geneva Invention Award and patented in over 30 countries, offers a cost-effective alternative to traditional carbon auditing. Vekin’s CTO, Ekasit Phermphoonphiphat, notes its efficacy in enabling clients, especially ESG-compliant listed companies and exporters targeting European markets, to achieve net-zero targets.
AltoTech.AI targets the building sector with an end-to-end solution spanning carbon footprint assessment, efficiency upgrades, and carbon credit management. The company reports substantial client success, including a collective reduction of 5.8 GWh in electricity consumption—equivalent to planting 115,000 trees. Recognized as one of Asia-Pacific’s Top 100 Startups by e27 in 2024, AltoTech.AI operates across Thailand, Hong Kong, and Singapore, backed by strategic partnerships with Microsoft and Nvidia.
In environmental monitoring, MUI Robotics employs advanced sensors and AI to detect and analyze odors and pollutants, safeguarding ecosystems and public health. Its applications extend to sectors like food and agriculture, with notable clients such as Betagro and Charoen Pokphand. Meanwhile, Ion Energy, a subsidiary of Bangkok Cable Group and Thailand’s pioneering solar power company, facilitates energy transition through Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) and provides real-time monitoring via a dedicated app. The company boasts projects across more than 20 cities globally, with an impressive total installation capacity of 110 MWp.
This national focus on green technology aligns with a rapidly expanding global market. Research and Markets projects the green tech and sustainability sector to grow from US$25.5 billion in 2025 to US$73.9 billion by 2030, reflecting increasing consumer and investor interest in climate solutions. NIA Executive Director Krithpaka Boonfueng emphasizes that the current momentum in sustainability presents a robust growth opportunity for Thai startups, reinforced by the agency’s provision of funding and industry expertise for international expansion.
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