A development programme launched by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) in 2018, Start-up Express, is all set to return for its third edition to help local start-ups build connections, explore markets, seek partners and enhance brand awareness. The 20 winning start-ups can explore business opportunities with potential investors and partners through power meet-up sessions with successful business leaders and a wide range of activities, including exploratory missions, business-matching sessions and local and overseas exhibitions. Start-up Express targets start-ups with products or services suitable for the mass consumer market and that have a strong desire to build an international presence. The programme helps start-ups to realise their vision by providing a platform to grow through learning and exchanging ideas. To be eligible to apply for Start-up Express, tech start-ups must have been established for less than five years; have raised less than US$10 million in funding; and have a core or substantial operations in Hong Kong with a focus on artificial intelligence (AI) & robotics, big data, biotech, the Internet of Things (IoT), fintech or smart city. The application deadline is 8 May 2020. A total of 50 start-ups will be shortlisted for closed-door pitching, and selected finalists will join the pitching contest in June. HKTDC Assistant Executive Director Stephen Liang said that Start-up Express has been giving tremendous support to local start-ups over the past two years, helping them explore global markets. Some of the participating companies have even sealed major orders and won international awards. โStart-ups can help Hong Kong diversify its economy and facilitate social innovation, which is why supporting them is a priority for the HKTDC. To offer start-ups more opportunities to explore new markets by participating in overseas exhibitions, we have increased the number of Start-up Express beneficiaries to 20 this year, up from 10 in previous years. We hope to promote Hong Kongโs entrepreneurial spirit by empowering relatively mature start-ups and helping them operate at a profit through sustainable development,โ Liang added.
