What you get
Up to HK$100,000 over one year, paid in three tranches
A year-long start-up programme for tech founders with an idea backed by R&D and a business plan. The grant is paid in three tranches, each released once a milestone in your one-year plan is assessed as met, and graduates have a route into HKSTP's Incubation Programme.
Who can apply
- Individuals: a Hong Kong ID holder aged 18 or over
- Companies: a Hong Kong limited company incorporated less than two years before the application window opens
- Teams can apply before forming a company, but must incorporate a Hong Kong limited company within two weeks of approval
- An innovative idea supported by R&D and business planning
Timeline
- Application window31 Aug to 14 Sep 2026, noon to noon
- Pitch deck review by a panel (shortlisted only)Late September to late October 2026
- Online due diligence meetingEarly to late November 2026
- ResultsLate November 2026
- Programme startsJanuary 2027
Tips
- Apply through the online portal well before noon on the closing day: late or emailed applications aren't considered, unless a technical problem is reported in advance.
- Windows open three times a year, in January, May and September, so missing one costs a few months, not a year.
- Read the eligibility rules twice. Most rejections are about company age, ownership or where the work happens, not the idea.
- Plan cash flow. Many schemes pay in instalments or reimburse costs after you spend them.
- Keep records from day one. Every scheme audits spending, and clean books make the next application easier.
General tips from our funding guide.