EkoCenter: A 10-Year Journey of Community Empowerment in Vietnam

A decade ago, the EkoCenter initiative was launched in Vietnam with a clear and impactful mission: to provide clean drinking water and simple yet essential services to underserved communities. Today, EkoCenter has evolved into a “golden triangle” model, uniting businesses, government, and social organisations to address local needs in health, education, and livelihood.

Tackling Real Challenges, One Center at a Time
In Long An Province, the struggle for clean water during the dry season has become an annual reality. According to the provincial Department of Agriculture and Environment, over 5,000 households—more than 20,000 people—faced water shortages in early 2024.

In response, Swire Coca-Cola Vietnam recently inaugurated its eighth EkoCenter in An Thạnh commune, Ben Luc District. The Center supplies up to 6,000 litres of clean drinking water daily, free of charge, providing a vital lifeline to the local community.

From Clean Drinking Water to Skills Development
Since the first EkoCenter opened in Thu Duc, Ho Chi Minh City, in 2014, over 14 million litres of clean drinking water have been distributed through eight Centers across Vietnam.

While clean water remains at the core, EkoCenters have long expanded their role to serve as community hubs — offering free Wi-Fi, skills training, healthcare access, and educational programmes tailored to the needs of each location.

In 2024, the Ho Chi Minh City EkoCenter partnered with local authorities and the social enterprise Green Connect to provide a free Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics (STEAM) summer programme for underprivileged students.

Meanwhile in Hanoi, in collaboration with the local Women’s Union, we launched the “E-commerce Business Training Project for Ha Thai Lacquer Craft Village”. This initiative aims to increase the visibility of local traditional lacquerware products; boost sales through digital platforms, and improve the livelihoods of local women and artisans. The three-month programme featured hands-on training and expert-led sessions to equip participants with the skills needed to succeed in the digital economy. The project achieved impressive outcomes for over 120 women across 351 training sessions.

A Model Built on Partnership
What sets EkoCenter apart is its collaborative structure. Swire Coca-Cola Vietnam provides financial support, technology, and infrastructure; while local governments and NGOs contribute knowledge, networks, and direct community engagement.

“We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all,” said Mr. Bui Khanh Nguyen, Vice President of Public Affairs, Communications and Sustainability at Swire Coca-Cola Vietnam. “Each EkoCenter is shaped around the unique needs of the community it serves. Our role is to bring in resources and catalyse partnerships that unlock lasting value.”

That localised approach has helped EkoCenter become a flexible, evolving platform that addresses both immediate needs — like clean water — and long-term challenges, such as digital literacy, youth development, and sustainable livelihoods.

As the initiative marks a decade of impact, it offers a compelling example of how business and community partnerships can deliver practical, scalable solutions. Looking ahead, Swire Coca-Cola Vietnam aims to further expand the EkoCenter network and deepen its collaboration with local partners. “EkoCenter is more than a place — it’s a commitment to inclusive, community-driven progress,” said Mr. Nguyen.