TSSSU@HKU
Technology Startup Support Scheme for Universities (TSSSU)
Programme Description
The Technology Startup Support Scheme for Universities at HKU (TSSSU@HKU) is a funding programme that supports HKU students, researchers, and faculty members in transforming innovative technologies and research and development outcomes into successful startups.
TSSSU@HKU comprises TSSSU-O and TSSSU+, providing up to HK$1.5 million in funding per year to support technology startups. TSSSU-O offers funding for up to 3 consecutive years, while TSSSU+ provides dollar-for-dollar matching funding for startups that have secured private-sector investment and demonstrated strong growth potential, with support available for up to 3 consecutive years.
Awardees also benefit from access to HKU’s innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem to advance technology development and business growth.
This programme runs annually, with applications typically opening in September.
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Benefits and Support
- From HK$400K to HK$1.5M Funding
- Grant matching opportunity: Up to RMB 1M (HKU TEA Qianhai Base)
- 1-year iDendron Membership
- Community and Networking
- Public Exposure
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Eligibility
Applications must be submitted by a Person-in-Charge (PIC) and meet the following requirements:
- Person-in-Charge (PIC)
- HKU member (student, staff, alumnus, or HKU-affiliated institution member) aged 18+ with a valid Hong Kong Identity Card; or
- Company Director of an existing or prospective HKU IP licensee (with an IP licensing agreement either already signed or currently under negotiation.)
- Company Entity
- HKU member(s) should own at least 20% ownership in the applying company. And
TSSSU-O TSSSU+ (a) Year of establishment - Registered on or after 15 January 2025, i.e. registered for not more than two years as of the Cut-off Date (15 January 2027)
- The two-year eligibility requirement does not apply to a start-up which is recommended for TSSSU-O funding for the second or the third year
- Registered on or after 15 January 2020, i.e. registered for not more than seven years as of the Cut-off Date (15 January 2027)
- The seve n-year eligibility requirement does not apply to a start-up which is recommended for TSSSU+ funding for the second or the third year
(b) Secured private investment - Not required
- Start-ups should submit document proofs (e.g. agreement/ letter of undertaking issued by the private investor, etc.) together with the applications
- Recognised matching period for private investment shall be from 1 April 2026 to 31 March 2027
For full eligibility requirements of the funding programme, please refer to the HKU Guidelines and ITC TSSSU Guidelines, available in the Downloads section.
Notes:
- HKU Staff shall observe and adhere to all relevant policies and regulations related to knowledge transfer and external activities. Prior approval must be obtained from the university management before engaging in any startup and outside activities, including consultancy work. For detailed information, please refer to the HKU Staff Handbook regarding Regulations Governing External Activities.
- Professoriate, academic-related, and research staff who engage in startup activities are required to complete the Online Form of Declaration of Interest (Startup Activities) via the designated HKU online system.
- Person-in-Charge (PIC)
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Application Process and Criteria
Step 1: Read the Guidelines before submitting any application
Step 2: Submit the online application form along with the following supporting documents
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- Pitch Deck (max. 15 slides, English or Chinese)
- 3–5 minute pitch video link (OneDrive or YouTube link preferred)
- Proof of HKU affiliation of the PIC (e.g. student ID, graduation certificate, or staff card)
- HKU IP License Agreement or completed Declaration Form (if applicable)
- Company registration documents (Business Registration Certificate , Certificate of Incorporation, NNC1/NAR1)
- CVs of the PIC and all team members (using the provided template)
- For TSSSU+ only: Investor term sheet/investment agreement and a brief investor profile.
Step 3: Shortlisted applicants should provide the following documents before the Final Pitching:
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- Declaration and Disclosure Form
- Application Form (Annex A)
- 15 pages of Business Plan
Step 4: Attend Final Pitching
Assessment Criteria TSSSU-O TSSSU+ Technology Innovation 40% 30% Team Competence 30% 30% Market Viability 20% 30% Social Impact 10% 10% Use of HKU Technology (HKU IP) 5% 5% -
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Key Documents & Links
2026-27 TSSSU@HKU (New Cohort)
- ITC TSSSU Guidelines [Jul 2025 edition], FAQ [Jul 2025 edition] & HKU TSSSU Operation Plan [Sep 2025 edition]
- Annex A – Application Form (Word version) [Jul 2025 edition]
- Annex A(i) – CV templates (Word version) [Jul 2025 edition]
- All Annexes (pdf version) [Jul 2025 edition]
- Declaration Form of Use HKU IP [Oct 2024 edition]
2025-26 TSSSU@HKU
- ITC TSSSU Guidelines [Aug 2024 edition], FAQ [Aug 2024 edition] & HKU TSSSU Operation Plan [Sep 2024 edition]
- All Annexes [Aug 2024 edition]
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Enquiry
(Email) tsssu@hku.hk / (Tel) 3917 3436