In the past, Thailand had only the innovation development fund under the administration of
the National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA). The government’s
vision of how Thailand could be transformed into an innovation/technology-driven country
led to the establishment of the NIA, which was considered as a change agent
(Intarakumnerd, 2005). The NIA, established in 2003, was charged with undertaking and
supporting innovation and technology development for firms, especially in the
manufacturing sector. Other objectives of the NIA include developing linkages between
innovators and financial organisations, introducing conceptualization and definition of
innovation (products and process) to industry, and promoting and implementing knowledge
and creativity management.