Deadline: 30-Jun-2026
The General Support Programme (GSP) is a Hong Kong funding initiative launched in 1999 to strengthen industry development and promote innovation and technology awareness. It supports non-research and development (non-R&D) initiatives that encourage public engagement with science, technology, and industrial advancement.
The programme aims to build a stronger innovation ecosystem by supporting educational, promotional, and industry-focused activities across Hong Kong.
Programme Objectives and Focus Areas
The GSP focuses on non-R&D initiatives that contribute to industrial and technological development. Key focus areas include:
- Industrial upgrading and development initiatives
- Promotion of innovation and technology culture
- Popular science education and outreach activities
- Industry conferences and professional seminars
- Technology exhibitions and public showcases
- Educational workshops and training programmes
- Science communication and public engagement
- Innovation awareness campaigns
- Capacity building in industry and technology sectors
Eligible Activities
Funding may be used for a wide range of non-R&D activities, including:
- Conferences and industry forums
- Seminars and professional workshops
- Public exhibitions and science fairs
- Promotional and outreach campaigns
- Educational science engagement programmes
- Technology awareness and innovation events
- Community-based science activities
Ineligible Activities
The programme does not support:
- Projects promoting specific commercial products or services
- Purely commercial marketing initiatives
- Activities without public or industry benefit
- Research and development (R&D) projects
Eligible Applicants
Eligible organisations include Hong Kong-based entities such as:
- Non-profit trade or industry associations
- Chambers of commerce
- Public bodies
- Charitable organisations registered under Section 88 of the Inland Revenue Ordinance
- Local universities and tertiary institutions
- District Councils
- Local incorporated or unincorporated companies
Funding Requirements and Co-Financing
- Applicants must contribute at least 10% of total project cost as sponsorship
- Higher sponsorship requirements may apply for repeat applicants
- Funding is designed to complement rather than fully finance projects
- Co-financing ensures stakeholder commitment and project sustainability
Programme Purpose and Impact
The GSP aims to strengthen Hong Kong’s industrial ecosystem by promoting innovation awareness and fostering a strong science and technology culture. It encourages public participation in innovation-related activities and supports industry collaboration, knowledge exchange, and science education.
How the Programme Works
- Eligible organisations design non-R&D innovation or science promotion projects
- Applications are submitted under the GSP framework
- Projects are evaluated based on relevance, impact, and feasibility
- Approved projects receive funding support with required co-sponsorship
- Activities such as events, exhibitions, and workshops are implemented
- Outcomes focus on public engagement and industry development
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting R&D-focused proposals instead of non-R&D activities
- Including commercial product promotion or marketing content
- Failing to meet minimum 10% sponsorship requirement
- Weak alignment with innovation and technology objectives
- Lack of public engagement or educational value
- Overly narrow industry-specific benefit without broader impact
Tips for a Strong Application
- Focus on innovation awareness and public engagement
- Design interactive and educational activities
- Ensure strong industry or academic collaboration
- Clearly demonstrate benefits to the wider community
- Provide realistic budgeting and sponsorship plans
- Align closely with innovation and technology promotion goals
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the General Support Programme (GSP)?
- It is a Hong Kong funding programme supporting non-R&D innovation and science promotion projects
- It aims to strengthen industry development and public science engagement
- Who can apply?
- Hong Kong-based non-profit organisations, universities, chambers of commerce, and companies
- Public bodies and District Councils are also eligible
- What types of projects are funded?
- Conferences, exhibitions, seminars, workshops, and science outreach activities
- Innovation and technology awareness programmes
- What is the funding requirement?
- Applicants must contribute at least 10% of total project cost
- Are commercial promotion projects eligible?
- No, projects promoting specific products or services are not supported
Conclusion
The General Support Programme (GSP) in Hong Kong supports non-R&D initiatives that promote innovation culture, industrial development, and public science engagement. By funding educational and industry-focused activities, it strengthens awareness of technology and supports a more innovation-driven society.
For more information, visit Innovation and Technology Commission.