The Inspiring Startup Journey of “Cô Mới” – From Village Teacher to Western Vietnam Specialty Brand Owner
Phạm Thị Mới – a name as humble as the woman herself – has become a beacon of entrepreneurial inspiration for hundreds of women in Vietnam’s riverine regions. Once a village schoolteacher living up to her parents’ hopes for a stable life, few could have predicted she would take a bold turn into a path full of challenges yet fueled by passion—the journey of becoming the founder of Cô Mới, a standout local brand for agricultural and seafood specialties from the Mekong Delta.
From 140,000 VND to 20+ Local Products
With no significant capital or business background, Ms. Mới launched her venture with only 140,000 VND in hand—a modest amount, but one that held enormous determination. Over 8 years and through 7 different jobs, she gained valuable experience and nurtured a deep resolve to transform her life.
Starting with just one product—salted sesarmid crabs (ba khía muối)—by 2022, she had expanded her product line to over 20 items made from local ingredients, contributing to the added value of regional agriculture and creating jobs for people in her community.
SVF – A Turning Point Called Hope
In 2023, Ms. Mới joined the Startup Incubation Program for Innovation and Entrepreneurship organized by SVF, where she found what she calls the "missing piece." Through the program, she gained in-depth knowledge of business management and strategy, engaged in hands-on experiences, and—most importantly—connected with like-minded changemakers.
A key milestone was winning the “Lan Tỏa” (Impact) Award in the program’s pitching competition. This recognition became a powerful boost of confidence that helped her step beyond her comfort zone.
The Sweet Rewards of Perseverance
After completing the program, she invested in upgraded packaging, better equipment, a professional e-commerce website, and expanded her customer base through connections with supermarkets and restaurants nationwide. Her online orders surged from 100 to 400–500 per month, and the “Cô Mới” brand began to make its mark in the Vietnamese specialty food market.
Beyond business success, she has also helped foster a community of women entrepreneurs, where mutual support, learning, and inspiration thrive.
Incubation: The Starting Point of Transformation
At SVF, incubation means more than nurturing ideas—it means nurturing resilience.
Ms. Mới’s story is a powerful testament to this belief: when women are given the chance to access knowledge and a supportive environment, they can reshape their destinies with their own hands and unwavering hearts.
