HKSTP's Global Booster Programme: Bridging Hong Kong Startups with Silicon Valley Investors

The Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP), as a key driver of local innovation and technology development, has been committed to nurturing and supporting Hong Kong startups in reaching the global stage. Recently, HKSTP held the inaugural Global Booster Programme graduation ceremony, celebrating the significant breakthroughs of five promising Hong Kong startups in Silicon Valley. This not only signifies international recognition of Hong Kong’s innovative capabilities but also reflects HKSTP’s success in advancing the local innovation ecosystem.

On September 12, 2024, HKSTP's first-ever Global Booster Programme came to a successful conclusion. The programme is designed to help outstanding Hong Kong startups expand into the global innovation hub of Silicon Valley and enhance their international competitiveness. After six months of rigorous training and market development, the five participating Hong Kong tech companies achieved remarkable success in Silicon Valley.

These companies, which span various sectors such as artificial intelligence (AI) and green technology, showcase the diversity and innovative capacity of Hong Kong’s tech industry. Within just a few months, they collectively secured business contracts and raised funding exceeding USD 15 million (approximately HKD 117 million), while also gaining additional partnerships and investment opportunities. This achievement not only demonstrates the strength of Hong Kong startups but also highlights the effectiveness of HKSTP’s support programme.

The success of the Global Booster Programme would not have been possible without HKSTP’s close collaboration with the global innovation platform Plug and Play, as well as numerous investors and partners. The programme provided each participating startup with tailored training, business development, and fundraising support to help them establish a foothold in North America and other overseas markets, while also connecting with investors and strategic partners.

The five startups participating in this programme are: PolyU Glass, which focuses on the research and manufacturing of new vacuum glass building materials; ÖKOSIX, which produces biodegradable medical-grade materials; RaSpect, which provides AI-based smart city and building inspection solutions; Nova Robotics Limited, specializing in the development of intelligent robots; and GoGoChart, which has developed an AI-powered digital advertising management platform. These companies are all partners of HKSTP’s incubation and acceleration programmes, representing the future direction of Hong Kong’s innovation and technology sector.

Mr. Albert Wong, CEO of HKSTP, expressed high praise for the programme's achievements, emphasizing that it not only demonstrated the ability of Hong Kong startups to enter international markets but also highlighted HKSTP’s mission to drive the success of its partner companies. With the success of the inaugural programme, HKSTP is now preparing to launch the second Global Booster Programme in 2025, doubling the number of participating startups to ten.

The success of the first Global Booster Programme is not only a recognition of the participating startups but also a testament to the strength of Hong Kong’s entire innovation ecosystem. As HKSTP continues to accelerate innovation and collaboration, Hong Kong’s position in the global innovation landscape is expected to rise. This will create more opportunities for emerging entrepreneurs and help Hong Kong become a true international innovation and technology hub. Looking forward, we anticipate seeing more Hong Kong startups shine on the global stage, bringing their innovative solutions to positively impact the world.