Empowering Startups in AI and Smart City Innovation

HKD 100K funding. Microsoft & HKSTP ecosystem. Global market access.

Group photo of Microsoft and HKSTP teams at TechConnect Program launch event in Hong Kong

About

The TechConnect Incubator is a collaborative initiative between Microsoft Hong Kong and the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP). This one-year virtual program is designed to empower global startups to enter and scale in the Hong Kong market, with a focus on cutting-edge AI and Smart City innovations.

The program is structured in two phases:

Phase 1: 20 startups will be selected to join the program.

Phase 2: 8 of those 20 will be further selected to advance into the second phase.

At the end of the program year, the 8 selected startups will receive a sponsored trip to Hong Kong for 2-3 days, where they will participate in an immersion tour, engage in networking with investors and industry leaders, and pitch at the final DEMO Day — unlocking opportunities for growth and market expansion in Hong Kong, Greater China, and beyond.

Throughout the year, participating startups can expect a mix of mandatory and optional mentorship and workshops. The mandatory portion consists of 6 to 8 one-hour sessions spread across the program.

Whether you’re an early-stage startup or looking to scale globally, TechConnect Incubator provides the resources, mentorship, and market access needed to succeed in one of Asia’s most dynamic innovation hubs.

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Why Hong Kong?

Hong Kong is a vibrant hub for innovation and technology, known for its strategic location, robust infrastructure, and a diverse talent pool. The city is home to a thriving startup ecosystem supported by government initiatives and a network of investors eager to support innovative ideas.

With a strong emphasis on AI and Smart City development, Hong Kong offers unique opportunities for startups to collaborate with industry leaders and access cutting-edge resources. The local government actively promotes entrepreneurship, making it an ideal environment for startups to flourish.

Join us in Hong Kong, where your innovative ideas can transform into reality!

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Program Sponsors

Microsoft: Microsoft (Nasdaq “MSFT” @microsoft) creates platforms and tools powered by AI to deliver innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of our customers. The technology company is committed to making AI available broadly and doing so responsibly, with a mission to empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more.

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HKSTP: The Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP) is Hong Kong’s largest innovation and technology incubator, serving a vibrant community of over 24,000 professionals. With more than 2,200 tech enterprises and park companies; from 25 countries and regions, HKSTP offers end-to-end incubation support —from ideation to scale-up—alongside world-class R&D facilities and infrastructure. As a leading driver of innovation, HKSTP empowers startups to thrive and grow in Hong Kong and beyond.

Learn more >

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Opportunity Benefits

Funding and Beyond

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Funding Support: HKD 100K equity-free in HKSTP Funding, HKD 1.1M in Microsoft Azure credits, and potential access to HKSTP’s Incubation Programme with up to HKD 1.29M in additional funding.
Sponsored Trip to Hong Kong: 8 companies will be selected and travel to Hong Kong for the demo day and graduation.
Hot Desk Support: Dedicated co-working space at HKSTP to establish and grow in Hong Kong.
Expert Training & Coaching: Expert guidance from Microsoft and HKSTP on tech enablement and business growth.
Full Stack of Development Tools: Free access to GitHub Enterprise, Azure OpenAI, VS Code, and more.
Exclusive Startup Offers: Exclusive perks from LinkedIn, Stripe Atlas, Bubble, and other trusted partners.
Go-to-Market & Co-Sell: Opportunities to bring your solution to market and co-sell with Microsoft.

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Eligibility & Tech Verticals

General Eligibility Requirements

Startups developing innovations in Artificial Intelligence (AI) or addressing Smart City challenges — including sectors such as sustainability, mobility, energy, IoT, property, marketing, and retail technologies.
Open to startups from any country with functional products backed by R&D and proven market traction.
Startups interested in entering the Hong Kong market, leverage Hong Kong as a launchpad into global markets.
Startups currently using or planning to adopt cloud services.
Participants can commit to the 12-month virtual program and attend 6 to 8 mandatory virtual sessions throughout the year.

Tech Verticals

Artificial Intelligence

Smart City

Selection Criteria

Innovation: Uniqueness, creativity, and technical strength of the solution.
Market Opportunity & Fit: Size of the market opportunity and alignment of the solution to market needs.
Traction & Validation: Evidence of market adoption, user growth, partnerships, or revenue.
Team Experience: Strength, expertise, and track record of the founding and leadership team.
Growth Potential: Scalability of the business model and ability to expand across Hong Kong, Greater China, and global markets.
Cloud Readiness: Current or planned adoption of cloud services.
Hong Kong Strategy: Plan for entering the Hong Kong market and leveraging it as a launchpad for regional and global growth.

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Procedure & Timeline

A milestone-driven journey designed to accelerate growth, validate your solution, and prepare you for Demo Day.

Startup incubator 2025-2026 timeline: apply by June 23, 2025; includes interviews, Azure-based development, progress review, final prep, and DEMO Day

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1/ Can I apply as an overseas startup?

Yes. Overseas startups are welcome to apply, provided you’re willing to incorporate a limited company in Hong Kong upon receiving an offer to join the programme.

2/ Can I apply as a Hong Kong-based startup?

Yes, as long as your limited company was incorporated in Hong Kong within two years of the application submission date, and you are not currently, or have not previously been, enrolled in an HKSTP or Cyberport incubation programme (e.g. HKSTP Ideation, Cyberport MicroFund), or the Microsoft Founder Hub Programme.

3/ My company doesn’t fall under the focus areas (AI, Smart City). Am I still eligible to apply?

Absolutely. While the programme prioritizes AI & Smart City solutions, startups from other sectors are also welcome to apply.

4/ Is there additional funding support for overseas startups entering the Hong Kong market?

All eligible startups—local or overseas—will receive equal benefits, including up to HKD 100,000 in support from HKSTP, up to HKD 1.1M+ in Microsoft Azure credit and free access to development tools, and potential access to HKSTP’s Incubation Programme with up to HKD 1.29M in additional funding. For full details, visit HKSTP-incubation . Guidance will also be provided during TechConnect Programme. Eligible startups will also receive co-working space at HKSTP.

5/ Do I need an Azure account?

Yes, to access Microsoft Azure benefits. Don’t worry—you’ll receive step-by-step instructions on activating your account after being admitted to the programme.

6/ When will I know the result of my application?

Notifications will be sent in July - August. All applicants will be informed of their application outcome, whether successful or not.

7/ Who can I contact if I have questions?

For any questions, feel free to reach out to us at info@startuplinkx.com

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Organizers & Partners‍

Program Organizer:

Microsoft Hong Kong

Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP)