CUHK Business School launches the Greater Bay Area funding scheme for young entrepreneurs
The Greater Bay Area Entrepreneurship Scheme, organised by BESGO FoundRise of the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) Business School, was officially launched on 31 January.
This two-year entrepreneurship funding and incubation programme is supported by the Home and Youth Affairs Bureau through the Funding Scheme for Youth Entrepreneurship in the Greater Bay Area under the Youth Development Fund. It is designed to empower students and young alumni to transform innovative business ideas into successful ventures.
This cycle attracted nearly 90 applications, spanning more than 30 industries, including education, agriculture, energy, sports and music. Following a rigorous selection process, 14 teams were selected. Each will receive funding of up to HKD 600,000, supported by the HKSAR Government and matching funds from CUHK.
In his keynote address, Professor Allen Chan Kwan-chee, associate vice-president (knowledge transfer) of CUHK, shared insights from his own entrepreneurial journey, highlighting both the opportunities and challenges of starting a venture. He encouraged the winning teams to stay committed to their vision and uphold the aspirations behind their ventures.
Professor Zhou Lin, dean of CUHK Business School, expressed sincere gratitude to the Home and Youth Affairs Bureau for its strong support of youth entrepreneurship. He noted that the scheme conveys a powerful message that CUHK Business School is prepared to invest in the next generation’s creativity and entrepreneurial drive.
Ms Chan Wing-man, MH, convenor of the action group of the Youth Development Fund and programmes, reiterated the Government’s firm commitment to supporting Hong Kong youth who aspire to start businesses in Hong Kong and Chinese Mainland cities in the Greater Bay Area, through funding and incubation services.
Beyond financial support, the scheme offers a comprehensive startup support platform, including expert guidance and industry mentorship. The programme aims to equip participants with the skills, networks, and perspectives needed to navigate their entrepreneurial journeys and scale their ventures for meaningful social and economic impact.
In his closing remarks, Dr Ku Kei-tat, associate dean (undergraduate studies) of CUHK Business School, highlighted that through a holistic approach, the programme is committed to nurturing the next generation of change-makers and social entrepreneurs who aspire to contribute to social good in Hong Kong and the region.
