New Century Elite Development Programme 2026

About the programme

Since 1998, the New Century Elite Development Programme has brought together over 2,000 outstanding university students from around the world. Now in its 24th edition, KCC co-presents this year's programme with the School of Communication at Hang Seng University of Hong Kong, for the first time structured as a full entrepreneurship competition. You're not just a participant. You're a founder in the making.

Eligibility

If you are a full-time university or postgraduate student at any university worldwide, you are eligible to apply. Students from Mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan are all welcome. Team members do not need to be from the same institution.

Flow

Part 1: First Round

Participate individually only. The first round is conducted in the form of an interview.

Part 2: Final

A total of 60 students who pass the first-round interviews will advance to the finals. The organizers will regroup shortlisted students from different countries and regions into teams of 5–6 members, with each team assigned a mentor.

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