Join ASCEND (Advancing Social innovation through Collaborative Enterprise for Next-gen Digital inclusion), a 2-year incubation programme empowering youth-led startups to create tech-driven solutions for digital equity in Hong Kong’s smart city future.
ASCEND supports startups in developing user-centric technologies and digital literacy programmes to empower digital marginalised communities.
Apply Now for Batch 2!
- Programme Period: 1 September 2025 – 31 August 2027
- Funding: Up to HK$3 million per successful applicant
- Deadline: 30 April 2025 (Wednesday)
Who Can Apply?
- A Hong Kong-registered company or startup with at least 2 full-time governance team members.
- Young startup team with at least 3 core team members who are Hong Kong permanent residents aged 35 or below.
- 2+ years of proven track record in delivering innovative services addressing social needs.
- Commitment to the 24-month programme and a clear social impact measurement framework.
Why Join ASCEND?
Information Days
Session 1
- Date: 3 April 2025 (Thursday)
- Venue: Event Room 2-3, 8/F, Building 19W, Science Park
- Time: 2:30pm - 4:00pm
- Language: Cantonese (supplemented with English)
Session 2
- Date: 7 April 2025 (Monday)
- Venue: Training Room 1-2, Core F, L3, Cyberport 3
- Time: 2:30pm - 4:00pm
- Language: Cantonese (supplemented with English)
Key Dates
Assessment Criteria
Get Started Today!
Download Application Materials:
Required Supporting Document
- The 15-slide pitching deck in PDF
- A link to a 3-minute pitching video
- Registration documents (e.g. Business Registration Certificate, Certificate of Incorporation, Proof of Charity (Section 88 IRD Certificate))
- Resume of each of the core managing members of the entity
- Supporting documents from previous funding projects (if applicable)
- Partnership Declaration and Consent Form
- Project Declaration
- Budget Plan
Ready to Apply?
Have Questions?
Contact us at info.ascend@polyu.edu.hk or send WhatsApp message to 9380 2085 (message ONLY).
