Bangkok SME Transformation Lab

In Collaboration with DIPRROM Creative-Next

Bangkok SME Transformation Lab, in collaboration with DIPROM Creative Next, supports SMEs in upgrading their products, services, materials, production processes, business models, and market readiness. As part of CIS’s City Transformation Platform, the program represents the enterprise-focused dimension of urban transformation, demonstrating how creative city development can be advanced by strengthening the SMEs that shape Bangkok’s creative and productive economy.

DIPROM Creative-Next is a powerful incubation program by the Department of Industrial Promotion (Ministry of Industry, Thailand) designed to elevate Thai SMEs through design and innovation. Launched in 2023, this initiative empowers entrepreneurs with hands-on experiences in creative workshops, idea camps, and expert consultations. Participants explore global design trends, strengthen their innovation capacity, and enhance their competitiveness in international markets. Over five transformative months, selected SMEs collaborate with top designers and business leaders to reimagine their products, communication, and business models. The program also supports participants in entering prestigious international design awards—laying the foundation for sustainable, design-driven growth.

Program Outcomes

Global Design Perspective

Participants gain insights into global design trends, international user needs, and cultural contexts. They learn to benchmark their products and strategies against international standards, preparing them to navigate diverse markets and expand their business with globally competitive, user-centered design.

Innovation-Driven Organization

Through design-thinking and new product development training, participants learn how to embed innovation into their organizational culture. This fosters agile thinking, encourages experimentation, and equips SMEs with the tools to continuously evolve their offerings in response to changing markets.

Creative Adaptability for Future Challenges

Participants develop the mindset and practical skills to respond creatively to uncertainty and market disruption. By working closely with experts and peers, they learn how to adapt, pivot, and reimagine their business with resilience and originality in a fast-changing world.

Key Activities

Creative Design Workshop

Hands-on workshops led by renowned designers introduce participants to the principles of design thinking, branding, and communication design. These sessions provide foundational knowledge and inspire SMEs to apply creative approaches in real business contexts.

Creative Idea Camp

An immersive camp where SMEs collaborate with design and innovation experts to explore new ideas, prototype solutions, and refine their business models. The camp encourages cross-sector dialogue, creativity, and co-creation in a supportive, high-energy environment.

Design Expert Consultations

Personalized mentoring sessions with design professionals and industry leaders allow SMEs to receive targeted feedback on their products, branding, and business strategy. These consultations help tailor innovation to each SME’s context, pushing their business toward international readiness.

January-August 2025

DIPROM Creative-Next 2GETHER

September 2023 - February 2024

DIPROM Creative-Next