(Hong Kong, 14 November 2024) – The Elite Programme of Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP) aims to nurture both local and international tech ventures with high growth potential. With 24 companies currently active in the programme, including 13 home-grown companies and 11 from overseas, the Elite companies span across different industries, including AI & robotics, life and health tech, e-commerce, and digital marketing. Together, these companies have a combined valuation of US$2.67 billion* with 11 companies now classified as centaurs#. HKSTP hosted the Elite Global Inno Day today, a high-profile event designed to highlight the achievements of the Elite companies and reveal their global expansion plan.
Launched in 2019, the HKSTP Elite programme has supported a total of 42 companies in expanding beyond Hong Kong, helping them become unicorns and public-listed companies.
Thanks to its strategic location, friendly business environment, competitive tax incentives, worldclass research and development capabilities, and strong intellectual property protection, Hong Kong has been an ideal launchpad for companies aiming for global expansion.
Leveraging these unique strengths, HKSTP has significantly increased its support for Park companies in recent years as they embark on their global expansion journeys. Through the programme, HKSTP provides comprehensive assistance to Elite companies, including first-class infrastructure, funding, business expansion, partnership, research and talent acquisition, all of which propel the success of Elite companies.
Mr Eric Or, Acting Chief Corporate Development Officer of HKSTP, said, “As the largest innovation and technology (I&T) ecosystem in Hong Kong, HKSTP continues to foster the success of innovation-driven tech ventures through our Elite Programme, helping them thrive, grow, and, ultimately, achieve their global ambitions, generate significant global impact, and attract international talent to Hong Kong. This also reinforces Hong Kong’s status as a global I&T and talent hub.”
The reach of the Elite companies now extends to 16 international markets across 6 continents, fostering international collaboration and pioneering innovations that are reshaping industries and improving lives worldwide.
Moreover, 12 Elite companies are led by multi-national management teams, and all Elite companies have committed to creating over 1,200 job opportunities in Hong Kong during the 3-year programme period.
Over 200 partners and investors joined today’s Elite Global Inno Day. The HKSTP team also highlighted the extensive support available to the portfolio companies. 17 of the Elite companies participated in the Elite Innovation Pitch, presenting their cutting-edge technological innovations and business strategies to corporate partners, potential investors and channel partners.
*Valuation is calculated when the company is admitted to the Elite Programme
#Centaurs — companies that reach US$100 million of annual recurring revenue.
