The 2025 OCIE SBDC Vietnam Trade Mission has come to an end. Below is an archive of the daily events.
The OCIE SBDC Trade Mission successfully completed an impactful journey to Vietnam, where participating businesses engaged in high-level meetings, industry visits, and cultural exchanges. The March 2025 mission provided invaluable insights into Vietnam’s growing economy and facilitated meaningful connections that will support long-term global expansion.
✈️ Saying Goodbye to Vietnam – Until Next Time!
As our OCIE SBDC Trade Mission comes to an end, we say goodbye to Vietnam, reflecting on the incredible experiences, connections, and insights gained along the way.
💼 Valuable business meetings & partnerships
🎓 Stronger academic collaborations
🏭 Eye-opening industry visits
🌿 Unforgettable cultural experiences
A huge thank you to our amazing hosts, partners, and new friends who made this journey so impactful. Vietnam, we’ll be back! 💙
Strengthening Academic Ties: Visit to Foreign Trade University
As part of our OCIE SBDC Trade Mission, we’re visiting Foreign Trade University (FTU) in Hanoi to explore partnership opportunities with CSUF. 🌍📚
Key discussion points:
Student Exchange & Study Abroad – Expanding global learning experiences.
Collaborative Research – Exploring joint projects between faculty and students.
Business & Entrepreneurship – Strengthening academic-industry connections.
Excited to build stronger educational and cultural ties between Vietnam and the U.S.!
Our OCIE SBDC Trade Mission delegation had an exciting and insightful day in Hanoi, exploring opportunities for innovation, trade, and collaboration. First, we visited ASSA ABLOY Smart Technology Vietnam, a global leader in digital door locks and access solutions. Touring their state-of-the-art facility in Vinh Phuc Province, we got a firsthand look at how advanced manufacturing is driving the future of smart security worldwide. We then met with the U.S. Commercial Service team in Hanoi for a market debrief, diving into key insights on:
Vietnam’s economic landscape and market growth trends
U.S.-Vietnam trade & investment opportunities
How U.S. businesses can successfully expand into the Vietnamese market
We finished the day with an impromptu visit to the Hanoi Association of Women Entrepreneurs!
Huge thanks to ASSA ABLOY and the U.S. Commercial Service for sharing their expertise and helping businesses connect, innovate, and grow internationally. Excited to bring these insights back to support small businesses at home!
✈️ Next Stop: Hanoi!
Our OCIE SBDC Trade Mission is on the move! After an insightful stay in Ho Chi Minh City, we’re boarding our flight to Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital and a key hub for trade, industry, and government relations. Excited for new connections, business opportunities, and exploring the dynamic landscape of the North!
Exploring Vietnam’s Innovation Landscape with FPT Corporation
Our OCIE SBDC Trade Mission delegation is honored to engage with FPT Corporation, Vietnam’s largest information technology service company, to delve into the nation’s advancements in Manufacturing, Education, and Technology Services. Established in 1988, FPT has evolved into a global leader, operating across sectors such as technology, telecommunications, and education. Their commitment to innovation and excellence has positioned them at the forefront of Vietnam’s digital transformation.
Key Discussion Points:
– Manufacturing: Vietnam’s strategic initiatives aim to attract high-tech manufacturing, positioning the country as a competitive alternative in Southeast Asia.
– Education: FPT’s educational initiatives, including FPT University, play a pivotal role in developing a skilled workforce, enhancing Vietnam’s competitiveness in the region.
– Technology Services: Vietnam’s tech sector is rapidly expanding, with companies like FPT leading the charge in digital innovation and services, contributing to the nation’s growing reputation as a tech hub in Southeast Asia.
This collaboration offers invaluable insights into how Vietnam’s sectors compare and compete within the broader Southeast Asian landscape, providing our delegation with a deeper understanding of regional dynamics and opportunities.
Inside Vietnam’s Manufacturing Powerhouse: LOTA Factory Tour
Today, our OCIE SBDC Trade Mission delegation got an inside look at LOTA, the world’s largest and most respected decorative plumbing manufacturer. With a legacy of innovation, quality, and global leadership since 1990, LOTA has set the standard in faucets, showering products, and plumbing solutions.
During this exclusive factory tour, we’re gaining firsthand insights into Vietnam’s advanced manufacturing capabilities, infrastructure, and supply chain dynamics — essential knowledge for businesses looking to expand globally!
Kicking Off in Ho Chi Minh City!
Our OCIE SBDC Trade Mission is diving right in with an exclusive market briefing hosted by the U.S. Commercial Service at the American Center – Diamond Plaza. 🏢✨ This session is equipping our delegation with key insights on Vietnam’s business landscape, trade opportunities, and strategies for success. A crucial first step toward making impactful connections! 🌏📊
Touchdown in Saigon! Time to Explore
After a long journey, our OCIE SBDC Trade Mission team is hitting the streets of Ho Chi Minh City for a well-deserved city tour! We’re soaking in the culture, energy, and vibrant sights of Vietnam before diving into business. Excited for what’s ahead! 🌏✨
Off to Vietnam!
The OCIE SBDC Trade Mission is officially taking off! Our delegation of ambitious businesses is en route from Los Angeles to Ho Chi Minh City, ready to explore new markets, build global connections, and unlock exciting opportunities in Vietnam. Stay tuned for updates from the journey! 🌍✨
Funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration.
Funded in part through a grant with the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development.
Mike Daniel is the network director of the Orange County Inland Empire SBDC Network, which assists aspiring entrepreneurs and current business owners throughout Orange, San Bernardino and Riverside counties. Mike was formerly the director of the SBDC office at Long Beach City College. As business owner and entrepreneur himself, he started his career as the owner of a Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory location in Manhattan Beach and went on to open a second location in Long Beach in 2001. In 2007, Mike sold the Manhattan Beach store for an above-market offer then invested in several additional locations as a minority shareholder. Mike further expanded his candy empire with venture located in Shoreline Village in Long Beach called Sugar Daddies Sweet Shoppe, based on fill-it yourself candy options.
Mike has a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from California State University, Fullerton.
