START-UP EXPRESS 2025 A Journey to Success for Hong Kong Start-ups
Aim
Start-up Express is Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC)’s highly curated start-up development programme that targets start-ups offering innovative and tech products or solutions, as well as those with strong desire to enter the international market. The programme aims to assist local start-ups in building capability and connections, exploring markets, seeking business and funding partners, and enhancing brand awareness. The programme offers start-ups with unique opportunities to learn, grow and connect. Each year, 10 winners will be selected as the annual cohort who will be exposed to vigorous marketing activities and earned attention from investors, media and potential partners.
What to Expect?
- Capacity Building Workshops
- Power Meet-ups with Business Leaders
- Exploratory Mission to GBA
- Local and Overseas Trade Promotion
- Business Matching
- Extensive Media Coverage
- Investor Pitching
- Becoming Alumni of HK Startup Society
Entry Criteria
- Start-ups incorporated on or after 1st January 2020;
- Start-ups raising less than USD10 million in funding;
- Start-ups with a valid business registration in Hong Kong;
- Start-ups with a focus on technologies related to the following categories;
- EdTech, FinTech, Health tech, Prop tech, Smart city and Sustainability
Timeline
- Application deadline 7 May 2025
- Final 40 announcement 9 May 2025
- Close Door Pitching 14 May 2025
- Final 20 announcement 21 May 2025
- Final Pitching Day 11 June 2025
Program Website: https://portal.hktdc.com/startupexpress/en/