SGNSpotlight 🌟Hoang Van Anh 🌟

Driven by a belief that technology should make a meaningful difference in people's lives, Hoang Van Anh is building solutions at the intersection of healthcare, IoT and smart living. 

In this SGNSpotlight, she shares her journey as a cross-border entrepreneur, the challenges of building technology that works in the real world, and her ambitions to grow her R&D presence in Singapore.

Tell us a bit about yourself and what inspired you to join our community.

I run a manufacturing business in Vietnam, currently developing a smart sleep ecosystem (AIRR) that integrates IoT and advanced biomaterials for the B2B healthcare and hospitality sectors. Our focus is on improving patient care in nursing homes and enhancing wellness experiences in hospitality through preventive monitoring.

I joined the Singapore Global Network because I value Singapore's world-class R&D ecosystem and its collaborative innovation culture. As we look to anchor our R&D operations here, I am eager to learn from the local community, share insights on regional manufacturing, and explore how our technology can create practical value within Singapore's healthcare landscape. I look forward to connecting with fellow innovators and tech partners who are passionate about scaling impactful solutions.

Tell us about a cause you’re passionate about, and why it holds a special place in your heart.

I've always cared deeply about how technology can actually improve lives, especially for our seniors. Working on the AIRR smart mattress isn't just a project for me—it’s personal. I’ve seen how much anxiety seniors face when they’re living alone and the physical pain of things like pressure ulcers, and I felt I had to do something about it. For me, the best technology isn't just about collecting data; it's about being there when it counts.

My goal is simple: to make sure no elderly person has to face a health emergency alone in the middle of the night.

What challenges have you encountered with this passion? 

The biggest challenge has been finding that balance between complex engineering and practical usability. Integrating sensitive IoT tech into a physical product like a mattress while keeping it durable for real-world B2B environments isn't easy. Plus, operating a cross-border model—with manufacturing in Vietnam and R&D ambitions in Singapore—comes with its own logistical and regulatory puzzles. It’s definitely a steep learning curve, but it’s pushing me to be much more adaptable and strategic in how I develop my project.

What activities do you enjoy in your free time?

In my downtime, I’m usually spending time with my puppy; training him and finding new ways to make our home environment better for him is a great way to disconnect.

I also enjoy reading about marketing trends or diving into new financial models when I’m feeling curious. And honestly, nothing beats a quiet weekend coffee-chat or a simple walk to clear my head and recharge for the week ahead.

If you’re living abroad, what do you miss about home, and how do you stay connected? 

What I miss most is definitely the fast-paced energy and the warmth of the local community back in Vietnam; it’s something you can't quite find anywhere else. I stay connected by keeping close tabs on the local tech and business landscape, which fuels my drive to innovate. I also make it a point to catch up with my family and friends regularly; it keeps me grounded and reminds me why I’m building what I’m building.

Reach out to me if you’re interested in…: 

Let's connect if you are interested in B2B healthcare technology, the intersection of IoT and smart living, or if you're exploring cross-border business opportunities between Vietnam and Singapore. I’m also always up for a good conversation about R&D strategies, manufacturing, or simply sharing experiences on navigating the startup journey.

Thank you to Van Anh for sharing her journey and her passion for using technology to improve the lives of seniors and communities. If you're working in healthcare, IoT, hospitality, R&D or cross-border business between Singapore and Vietnam, reach out to Van Anh (LinkedIn or email). She'd love to exchange ideas, explore potential collaborations, and connect with fellow innovators.

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