HKTDC Start-up Express 2026

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.

Who can apply?

• Start-ups incorporated on or after 1st January 2019;
• 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 including but not limited to: EdTech, FinTech, Health Tech, Prop Tech, Smart City, Sustainability
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Seeking for HKUST EC nomination to Start-up Express 2026

HKUST students/ startups who are interested and would like to seek for HKUST EC nomination to the Start-up Express Programme, please complete our EC Fast-track Form after completion of the official application to HKTDC. Deadline of seeking HKUST EC nomination is on 20 Apr 2026.

Click here for HKUST EC Fast-track Form (to be filled AFTER you submit your official application to HKTDC)!

Key Dates of the HKTDC Start-up Express 2026:

• 20 Apr 2026 (Mon): Deadline for seeking HKUST EC nomination to Start-up Express 2026
• 28 Apr 2026 (Tue): Official deadline of HKTDC Start-up Express 2026

More details: 

https://portal.hktdc.com/startupexpress/en/

Enquiry for HKUST Nomination: Yolanda Cheung (HKUST Entrepreneurship Center), ecenter@ust.hk

Enquiry for Programme: startupexpress@hktdc.org