From Struggles to Success in Business
In 1984, after serving in the military, Luong Tien Dung returned to his hometown and started working in foreign trade. With years of experience under his belt, he took a bold step in 2004 by launching his own business focused on buying and processing cinnamon in Mau A commune.
At first, Mr. Dung encountered many challenges, particularly in terms of financing and gaining the skills needed for running a business. He took loans from banks and sought funds from various sources to buy raw materials. Despite facing multiple setbacks and losses, his determination and hard work paid off, allowing him to keep his business afloat and gradually grow it.
Today, after over two decades of hard work, Que Dung Huyen Co., Ltd. stands proudly under his leadership. The company now operates from a production facility covering over 300 square meters in Mau A 2 village and exports nearly 1,000 tons of cinnamon each year. The business generates between 60-80 billion VND in revenue and provides stable jobs for more than 10 local workers, who earn between 8-15 million VND monthly. For Mr. Dung, the true measure of his success goes beyond numbers; it lies in the stable jobs and income he provides for his fellow townsfolk.
“I feel very proud to have built a company that supports my community,” Mr. Dung expressed. “Seeing my business thrive and my workers enjoy stable jobs brings me immense joy.”
Another veteran making an impact is Nguyen Van Quyen, who is involved in the handicraft sector in Lao Cai ward. With a passion for traditional crafts, he left his hometown of Bac Ninh in 2003 to pursue a new life focused on fine art woodworking.
Despite starting with nothing—limited funds, no workspace, and few skilled workers—Mr. Quyen’s passion drove him to establish the Hoa Mai Handicraft Cooperative. His commitment to quality craftsmanship has resulted in a range of valuable products, including beds and tables, which are sold both locally and internationally. Today, his cooperative generates tens of billions of VND in revenue and creates opportunities for many local workers.
In addition to running his business, Mr. Quyen places great importance on teaching woodworking skills, thereby helping to improve the capabilities of local craftsmen and providing stable jobs.
“We have faced many challenges on the battlefield, and now I want to contribute positively to society through my work,” he shared. “As long as I’m able, I will continue to dedicate myself to my craft and support others.”
Building Community Through Business
The entrepreneurial journeys of Mr. Luong Tien Dung and Mr. Nguyen Van Quyen highlight the important role that veterans play in boosting local economies and creating jobs in Lao Cai. Their stories inspire many, and the broader community of veteran entrepreneurs is beginning to take shape.
The Provincial Association of Veteran Entrepreneurs now comprises nearly 175 members across various industries, showing the collective strength of veterans in business. Notable contributions include businesses like Hoa Binh Minh Group Joint Stock Company and Dai Loc Construction Joint Stock Company, among others. Regardless of their size or field, these ventures aim for efficient operations, responsible tax contributions, and the welfare of their employees.
From 2022 to 2025, these veteran-led businesses exceeded total revenues of 13,000 billion VND, contributing nearly 618 billion VND to the state budget and creating approximately 3,000 jobs with monthly incomes ranging from 7 to 8.5 million VND.
The Lao Cai Provincial Association of Veteran Entrepreneurs also embraces social responsibility. In the last five years, they raised nearly 13 billion VND for community welfare initiatives, assisting those in need and promoting social causes. For instance, in just the first nine months of this year alone, they funded the repair and construction of homes for veterans and presented gifts to students as the new school year began.
Mr. Nguyen Quang Dai, Vice Chairman of the Association, stated: “We will continue to encourage our members to grow their businesses while ensuring workers’ rights. Strengthening connections among enterprises will be critical for mutual development. We aim to maintain our commitment to social welfare in our local communities.”
From their days as soldiers to their current roles as entrepreneurs, these veterans exemplify resilience and a commitment to overcoming challenges. Through their successful business ventures and dedication to supporting others, they are making valuable contributions to the prosperity of Lao Cai.
