BINKS is a standout example of how a simple technological idea can evolve into a globally relevant innovation, born from a very down-to-earth problem: toxic chemicals in children’s art supplies. At a time when consumers are increasingly concerned about health and environmental impact, BINKS took a different path by developing inks and paints made from discarded fruits and vegetables. This approach not only helps reduce food waste but also creates safe products for young users.
After more than two years of research and experimentation, BINKS successfully developed an eco-friendly production process using natural sources like beetroot, purple cabbage, turmeric, and pandan leaves to extract color. The biggest challenge in this journey was not the idea itself, but ensuring the quality and colorfastness of the final products compared to conventional industrial inks. The founding team invested significant time in the R&D phase, testing extraction ratios and combinations of ingredients to create a diverse palette while maintaining color stability across various types of paper.
The first minimum viable product (MVP) was piloted at several kindergartens in Ho Chi Minh City, where teachers and parents expressed clear interest in the safety aspect for children. The initial positive feedback gave BINKS the confidence to scale up, invest in equipment, and upgrade production processes to meet child safety standards. Quality certifications—such as natural cosmetic safety standards, toxicology reports, and color durability tests—issued by independent domestic and international laboratories have helped build consumer trust and paved the way for entry into global markets.
Beyond technical improvements, BINKS also invested in sustainable packaging technology by using biodegradable materials and reusable packaging designs. This green commercial strategy not only enhances brand image but also enables compliance with strict import regulations in European markets, where single-use plastics and packaging waste are tightly regulated.
In August 2024, BINKS once again earned the Champion title at the STARTUP RUNWAY DUE 2024 competition. Building on this success, the startup went on to win second place at the SURF 2024 Startup and Innovation Competition. Notably, BINKS solidified its position as a leading innovation-driven startup from Vietnam by winning the Excellence Prize in the Outstanding Scientific Research category at the 37th Management Grand Awards held in Seoul, South Korea.
The most valuable lesson BINKS offers the startup community is the importance of perseverance during the technology development phase—especially when working with raw materials as variable as fresh produce. Investing thoughtfully in research, resisting the temptation to scale prematurely before perfecting the core product, and being willing to test solutions in real-world environments were the three key strategies that allowed BINKS to break through.
In today’s startup ecosystem, where ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) standards are increasingly emphasized, BINKS stands as a powerful testament to how social responsibility and technological capability can be combined to build a business model with not only growth potential but also long-term community value.
