TSSSU@HKU

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.

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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.

Apply for the Programme (Deadline: 12:00noon, 20 October 2026) Apply for Briefing Session (18 September 2026)

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

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.

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%

TSSSU@HKU

Programme Description

Apply now

Benefits and Support

Eligibility

Application Process and Criteria

Key Documents & Links

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