Introduction

Hong Kong is setting the stage to become a leading global hub for innovation and technology (I&T) with the recent European Innovation Mixer tour spearheaded by Mr. Albert Wong, CEO of Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP). This strategic initiative aims to showcase Hong Kong's potential and fortify its role as a driving force for technological breakthroughs in Asia and around the globe.

Showcasing Innovation at Mobile World Congress 2025

During the tour, which included participation in the prestigious Mobile World Congress 2025—one of the largest I&T expos worldwide—HKSTP presented the vibrant Hong Kong Pavilion. Drawing in over 7,500 visitors, the pavilion highlighted the city’s dynamic I&T ecosystem, leading to the establishment of over 1,000 business collaboration opportunities with representatives from major global tech companies. This indicates a significant interest in leveraging Hong Kong as a launchpad for cutting-edge technologies and partnerships.

Collaborating for Sustainable Development

In a significant move towards cross-regional collaboration, HKSTP signed a cooperation agreement with 22@Network Barcelona. This partnership is expected to foster sustainable development and innovative technologies, further bridging Hong Kong and European markets to create new growth and investment avenues.

Engaging with UK Universities

The delegation also made stops at renowned UK universities, including Imperial College London, the University of Oxford, the University of Cambridge, and University College London. These visits centered on promoting collaboration in talent development and entrepreneurship, aiming to encourage local talent—especially those of Hong Kong descent—to return home and contribute to the city's evolving I&T landscape.

Nurturing Local Talent

Engaging directly with over 300 students, HKSTP organized sharing sessions focused on career and internship opportunities at Hong Kong Science Park, sparking interest in entrepreneurial paths and careers within Hong Kong’s innovation sector. This initiative underlines HKSTP's commitment to nurturing talent and ensuring a steady supply of skilled professionals to sustain its robust I&T ecosystem.

Seminar on Investment Potential

Furthermore, in London, HKSTP co-hosted a seminar alongside the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, Invest Hong Kong, and the Office for Attracting Strategic Enterprises. The event attracted nearly 100 attendees from the business, academic, and I&T sectors, offering a prime platform to discuss Hong Kong's investment potential. Prominent speakers shed light on the future prospects of the city's I&T landscape and emphasized the importance of attracting global talent.

Commitment to Expanding the Ecosystem

Mr. Wong highlighted that nurturing talent is as essential as advancing research and development, stating, "We are proud to be home to more than 2,200 tech companies from 26 countries and regions, supporting over 15,000 R&D professionals. Our goal is to expand our ecosystem, invest in talent, and continue to develop a sustainable future for innovation in Hong Kong."

Launch of New Talent Programme

To bolster this initiative, HKSTP is set to launch a new talent programme aimed at attracting Hong Kong students and research professionals currently abroad. By offering competitive salary subsidies and accommodation support for returnees, the programme seeks to incentivize talent to come back and contribute to the city’s I&T sector.

Conclusion

This European Innovation Mixer tour marks just one phase of HKSTP's broader strategy to solidify Hong Kong's leadership in the global I&T arena. With these proactive measures, Hong Kong is poised to attract the world’s brightest minds, establishing itself as the premier epicenter for innovation not only in Asia but across the globe. Stay tuned as more exciting developments unfold in Hong Kong's journey to becoming a world-class destination for innovation and technology!