Microsoft and Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP) have launched a twelve month co-incubation programme to boost local and global start-ups in the Hong Kong market. “TechConnect” will focus mainly on innovation in smart city technologies, particularly within property technology, marketing technology, and retail solutions.

The “TechConnect” programme offers benefits to accelerate the growth and success of participating start-ups, which will be supported by the resources of Microsoft Hong Kong and HKSTP.

Microsoft Hong Kong will offer financial and technical support and business matching opportunities, including over HKD$1,100,000 in Microsoft Azure credits, granting start-ups free access to a range of Microsoft tools and exclusive offers, including GitHub Enterprise, Azure OpenAI Service, and VS Code. Participants will also benefit from training workshops by industry experts covering areas such as business strategy, technology development, and market entry.

HKSTP will offer up to HKD$100,000 through its Ideation Programme. Start-ups will also gain access to co-working space. Eligible start-ups will have the opportunity to apply for additional funding via HKSTP’s Incubation Programme.

Both parties will jointly provide expert training, coaching, and unlimited learning resources on technology enablement and business growth. Exclusive start-ups offers, such as perks from LinkedIn, Stripe Atlas, Bubble, and other trusted partners, will also be included.

Henry Li, Head of Global Partner Solutions at Microsoft Hong Kong said, “By combining our cutting-edge technology resources and global industry expertise with HKSTP’s invaluable local market insights and established network, we are creating a powerful, synergistic ecosystem for innovation and accelerated growth, which will significantly reduce the hurdles start-ups face when they wish to establish presence in the Hong Kong market. We are eager to witness the tangible and positive impact these start-ups will have on Hong Kong’s future, driving technological advancement and improving the lives of our citizens.”

Derek Chim, Head of Start-up Ecosystem and Development at HKSTP said, “By providing essential support from funding, infrastructure to strategic support tailored to the unique challenges start-ups commonly encounter, we are empowering local and global innovators to scale up by bringing their transformative solutions to our city. We are looking forward to receiving exciting proposals that will create positive impact to Hong Kong’s innovation and technology landscape.”

Application to the “TechConnect” programme is now opened.