Deadline: 18-May-2026
The Ideation Programme is a year-long startup support initiative designed to help early-stage tech entrepreneurs transform innovative ideas into viable businesses. It focuses on guiding founders from the idea stage through to structured business development and investment readiness.
The programme combines mentorship, training, and funding to strengthen startup foundations and accelerate growth within Hong Kong’s innovation ecosystem.
Key Objectives
- Support early-stage startup development
- Transform innovative ideas into viable businesses
- Strengthen research-driven entrepreneurship
- Build strong business models and strategies
- Improve investment readiness and pitching skills
- Support market validation and customer testing
- Strengthen Hong Kong’s startup ecosystem
Focus Areas
- Startup formation and early-stage development
- Business model design and validation
- Innovation and technology development
- Research and development (R&D) integration
- Market validation and testing
- Pitching and investor readiness
- Entrepreneurial ecosystem engagement
Programme Benefits
- Seed funding of up to HKD 100,000
- Dedicated account managers for coaching and guidance
- Structured training in business modelling and validation
- Pitching and investor readiness workshops
- Access to co-working spaces (subject to availability)
- Connection to startup ecosystem networks
- Nomination to incubation programmes
Eligibility Criteria
- Individuals aged 18 or above holding HKID
- Companies incorporated in Hong Kong for less than 2 years
- Startup teams planning to incorporate in Hong Kong within 2 weeks of approval
- Applicants must have an innovative, research-supported idea
- Strong business planning foundation required
Evaluation Criteria
- Team competency and capability
- Innovation and uniqueness of the idea
- Business development potential
- Strength of research and development base
- Market opportunity and scalability
- Readiness for startup execution
How the Programme Works: Step-by-Step
- Develop an innovative tech-based business idea
- Prepare basic research and business planning materials
- Apply to the Ideation Programme
- Undergo evaluation based on innovation and team strength
- If selected, join the 1-year accelerator programme
- Receive mentorship, training, and structured support
- Access seed funding of up to HKD 100,000
- Develop and validate business model
- Prepare for investment and incubation opportunities
- Progress toward startup incorporation and scaling
Key Learning Components
- Business model creation and refinement
- Market validation techniques
- Pitch development and presentation skills
- Startup strategy and planning
- Investor readiness preparation
- Product and service development support
Why This Programme Matters
- Bridges gap between idea and startup creation
- Provides structured long-term entrepreneurial support
- Strengthens tech innovation ecosystem in Hong Kong
- Improves startup survival and investment readiness
- Encourages research-based innovation commercialization
- Connects entrepreneurs with investors and mentors
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting ideas without clear innovation or R&D basis
- Weak or undeveloped business plan
- Lack of commitment to incorporate in Hong Kong (if required)
- Poor understanding of market validation process
- Incomplete team capability or structure
Pro Tips
- Clearly demonstrate innovation and technical value
- Show strong research backing for your idea
- Prepare a realistic and scalable business model
- Highlight team expertise and execution capability
- Focus on market need and validation strategy
- Be ready to act quickly on incorporation requirements
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What is the funding amount? Up to HKD 100,000 in seed funding
- Who can apply? Individuals, teams, and early-stage companies in Hong Kong
- How long is the programme? 1 year
- Is incorporation required? Yes, for teams not yet incorporated in Hong Kong
- What support is provided? Mentorship, training, funding, and ecosystem access
- What stage is it for? Very early-stage tech startup ideas
- Is co-working space guaranteed? No, it is subject to availability
Conclusion
The Ideation Programme supports early-stage tech entrepreneurs in Hong Kong by providing funding, mentorship, and structured training over one year. It helps innovators turn ideas into viable startups by strengthening business models, validating markets, and preparing ventures for investment and long-term growth.
For more information, visit HKSTP.