Hong Kong ITF
ITF Hong Kong
Description
The Innovation and Technology Fund (ITF) of Hong Kong provides funding support for innovation and technology development through multiple programs. The Enterprise Support Scheme (ESS) offers up to HK$10 million (~$1.3M USD) for R&D projects, while other ITF programs support universities, startups, and technology transfer. Hong Kong's focus on becoming a global innovation hub has increased funding availability significantly.
For ZHC builders, Hong Kong offers several advantages: proximity to mainland China manufacturing, strong IP protection, English/Chinese bilingual environment, and competitive funding programs. The ESS program specifically targets applied R&D with commercialization potential, making it suitable for startups ready to develop products.
Eligibility
Key Programs
Enterprise Support Scheme (ESS)
- Up to HK$10 million per project (~$1.3M USD)
- 1:1 matching required (company contributes 50%)
- Applied R&D with commercialization focus
- Open to Hong Kong-registered companies
Partnership Research Programme (PRP)
- University-industry collaboration
- Up to HK$5 million per project
- IP ownership negotiable
Innovation and Technology Support Programme (ITSP)
- Institution-led research
- Up to HK$5 million per project
- Platform and infrastructure projects
Requirements
- Hong Kong registered company or institution
- R&D project with innovation
- Clear commercialization pathway (for ESS)
- Compliance with ITF guidelines
ZHC-Specific Fit
✅ Excellent for:
- Hong Kong-based startups
- Companies targeting Asian markets
- Manufacturing/R&D integration
- Applied AI and automation projects
- University spinouts
❌ Poor fit if:
- No Hong Kong presence
- Pure research without commercialization
- Cannot provide matching funds (for ESS)
Application Process
Application Process (ESS)
| Step | Timeline | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Prepare proposal | 1-2 months | Technical plan and budget |
| Submit application | Quarterly deadlines | Via ITF online system |
| Initial review | 2-3 months | ITF assessment |
| Expert panel | 1-2 months | External evaluation |
| Approval | 1 month | Final decision |
| Project start | 1-2 months | Agreement signing |
| Total timeline | 6-9 months | From application to start |
Funding Structure (ESS)
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Maximum grant | HK$10 million (~$1.3M USD) |
| Matching requirement | 1:1 (company matches 50%) |
| Duration | Up to 2 years |
| Milestone payments | Based on progress |
Required Materials
- Project proposal and technical description
- Innovation and differentiation
- Commercialization plan
- Budget breakdown with matching funds
- Team qualifications
- Company financials
- IP strategy
- Market analysis