Hong Kong International Corporate Secretaries

HKSTP Incubation Hong Kong: Programmes for Technology Companies

Explore HKSTP incubation programmes for technology companies in Hong Kong. Learn about funding, lab facilities and accelerator support for startups.

HKSTP Incubation Hong Kong: Programmes for Technology Companies

The Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation runs the city’s largest government-backed hub for technology innovation. Its programmes target technology companies at every stage: early-stage startups, growth-stage firms ready to scale, and established enterprises seeking equity backing. For any technology company considering the HKSTP incubation Hong Kong ecosystem, the corporation provides a structured pathway of funding, laboratory facilities, prototyping support and mentorship.

HKSTP manages the Hong Kong Science Park, the InnoCentre and industrial estates. Two programmes form the primary entry points for technology companies seeking startup support: the incubation programme and the accelerator programme. Each carries its own funding ceiling, application window and eligibility criteria. These are updated periodically. Check HKSTP’s website for current figures.

HKSTP Incubation Programme Application

The HKSTP incubation programme application process is open to technology companies less than two years old at the time of application. The programme runs for three years and provides a combination of financial and non-financial support. Applicants must submit a business plan, demonstrate a viable technology product or service, and show that the company is registered in Hong Kong.

The application window is not fixed. HKSTP accepts applications on a rolling basis or through designated intake rounds. The exact funding ceiling and the matching basis for any co-investment component are published on the HKSTP website for each intake. Check the current programme details before preparing a submission. The evaluation criteria cover three areas: the strength of the technology, the market potential and the capability of the founding team.

HKSTP Accelerator Hong Kong

The HKSTP accelerator Hong Kong programme targets technology companies that have moved beyond the initial startup phase and are ready to scale. This programme is shorter than the incubation programme. It lasts six to twelve months and focuses on rapid growth, market expansion and investor readiness.

Participants receive mentorship from industry experts, access to HKSTP’s network of corporate partners and introductions to potential investors. The programme also offers a funding component, structured as a grant or an equity investment. The funding ceiling and the application window vary by cohort. Technology companies in biotech, smart manufacturing and deep tech are particularly well-suited.

Hong Kong Science Park Startup Support

Hong Kong Science Park startup support extends beyond the incubation and accelerator programmes. The Science Park provides a physical ecosystem where technology companies can access shared laboratory facilities, prototyping workshops and co-working spaces. These facilities are available to programme participants. In some cases, they are also available to technology companies that lease space in the park independently.

The startup support includes business development assistance, intellectual property advisory services and access to testing equipment. HKSTP also organises networking events, pitch sessions and industry-specific workshops. For technology companies working on hardware or biotech products, the availability of on-site laboratory facilities and prototyping equipment is a significant advantage over operating from a standard commercial office.

HKSTP Tech Company Funding

HKSTP tech company funding is delivered through the incubation and accelerator programmes, as well as through the HKSTP Venture Fund. The Venture Fund makes direct equity investments in technology companies that are part of the HKSTP ecosystem. The funding is provided on a matching basis in some cases. The company must raise an equivalent amount from external investors.

The funding ceiling for each programme is set by HKSTP and is subject to change. The corporation does not publish a single fixed amount. The ceiling depends on the programme, the cohort and the stage of the company. Review the current programme documentation on the HKSTP website to confirm the available funding. The application process for funding is integrated with the programme application. There is no separate grant application form.

Programme Types and Support Summary

The table below summarises the main programme types and the support they offer. The funding ceiling and application window are not stated here because they change with each programme round.

Programme Duration Target Stage Key Support
Incubation Programme Up to 3 years Early-stage startups Funding, mentorship, laboratory facilities, prototyping
Accelerator Programme 6-12 months Growth-stage companies Funding, investor introductions, corporate partnerships
HKSTP Venture Fund Ongoing Companies in the HKSTP ecosystem Direct equity investment on a matching basis

Facilities and Mentorship

Technology companies accepted into HKSTP programmes gain access to the corporation’s specialised facilities. The Hong Kong Science Park houses laboratories for biotech research, electronics testing and materials science. Prototyping workshops are available for hardware development. The park provides cleanroom facilities for advanced manufacturing.

Mentorship is a core component of both the incubation and accelerator programmes. Each company is assigned a mentor who provides guidance on business strategy, product development and fundraising. HKSTP also organises mentorship sessions with industry veterans, academics and successful entrepreneurs. For technology companies working on pilot projects, the mentorship support helps refine the product and identify early customers.

How to Apply

Technology companies interested in the HKSTP incubation Hong Kong programmes should visit the HKSTP website to review the current programme details. The website publishes the funding ceiling, the application window and the eligibility criteria for each intake. Submit the application online through the HKSTP portal. Include a business plan, financial projections and information about the founding team.

HKSTP is the key government-backed hub for technology innovation in Hong Kong. Its incubation and accelerator programmes support technology companies from concept to commercialisation. For companies in biotech, smart manufacturing, deep tech and other innovation sectors, the HKSTP ecosystem offers a comprehensive package of funding, facilities and mentorship. It is difficult to replicate outside the park.

Sources

More on funding & government support.

Common questions

Can I apply for the HKSTP incubation programme if my company is over two years old?

No, the HKSTP incubation programme is only open to technology companies less than two years old at the time of application. The programme runs for three years and provides a combination of financial and non-financial support. Applicants must also demonstrate a viable technology product or service and show that the company is registered in Hong Kong.

What is the main difference between the incubation and accelerator programmes?

The incubation programme targets early-stage startups and lasts up to three years, focusing on foundational support. The accelerator programme is for growth-stage companies ready to scale, lasting six to twelve months with an emphasis on rapid growth, market expansion and investor readiness. Both offer funding, but the structure and duration differ significantly.

Do I have to be in an HKSTP programme to use the Science Park labs?

Programme participants can access shared laboratory facilities, prototyping workshops and co-working spaces. In some cases, technology companies that lease space in the park independently can also use these facilities. The availability of specialised labs and prototyping equipment is a key advantage for hardware and biotech companies within the ecosystem.

How do I get funding from the HKSTP Venture Fund?

The HKSTP Venture Fund makes direct equity investments in technology companies that are part of the HKSTP ecosystem. Funding is sometimes provided on a matching basis, requiring the company to raise an equivalent amount from external investors. The application process for funding is integrated with the programme application, with no separate form required.

Get help with a funding application

Government schemes turn on eligibility and accounts. Tell us which one you are looking at.

We pass your enquiry to providers whose licence we have checked against the register that issued it. Free to you.