The HKUST Entrepreneurship Center recently hosted the 1km & Beyond Startup Pitch Competition at The BASE, bringing together deep-tech startups, investors, industry representatives, and innovation leaders to explore opportunities in technology commercialization and cross-border collaboration.

Co-organized with Shanghai State-owned Capital Investment and Shanghai Science and Technology Venture Capital Group, the event also marked the first Hong Kong edition of the Westart Top 100 Pitch Competition, providing startup teams with a platform to connect with Shanghai's innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem.

The event opened with remarks from Dr. Shin Cheul Kim, Associate Vice-President for Research and Development (Knowledge Transfer) of HKUST, and Mr. Zhu Min, Chairman of Shanghai Science and Technology Venture Capital Group. Both speakers highlighted the importance of bridging scientific research and market applications, while fostering greater collaboration between Hong Kong and Shanghai in advancing innovation and technology development.

More than 30 deep-tech projects from Hong Kong, Mainland China, and overseas participated in the competition, covering sectors including biotechnology, artificial intelligence, and advanced technologies. Following a series of pitching presentations, three teams were selected for top honors and secured fast-track access to the semi-finals of the Shanghai Municipal Innovation and Entrepreneurship Competition.

Champion: Pleryon Therapeutics (Biotechnology)

Pleryon Therapeutics was recognized for its polymer-based therapeutic platform, which utilizes injectable hydrogel technologies to address unmet clinical needs in ophthalmology and orthopedics. The solution illustrates the potential of advanced biomaterials in supporting next-generation medical treatments.

First Runner-up: Shenzhen Biorocks Co., Ltd. (Biotechnology)

Biorocks presented an automated embryo vitrification and warming system designed for in vitro fertilization and livestock breeding applications. The technology aims to improve embryo preservation outcomes through automation and process standardization.

Second Runner-up: Edaige Ltd. (Artificial Intelligence)

Edaige showcased an AIoT-powered rehabilitation platform that combines three-dimensional human motion recognition and real-time exercise guidance. The solution seeks to improve access to rehabilitation services through personalized training and remote support.

In addition to the pitching competition, participating teams engaged in a dedicated one-on-one capital matching session with investors and industry representatives. The session provided opportunities for founders to exchange ideas, explore partnership opportunities, and gain feedback on business development and commercialization strategies.

The competition reflects ongoing efforts to strengthen connections between research, entrepreneurship, and industry while supporting the growth of innovation-driven ventures. Through platforms that facilitate exchange between startups, investors, and ecosystem partners, the HKUST Entrepreneurship Center continues to contribute to the development of a vibrant innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem in Hong Kong and beyond.