HKSTP leads an expanded start-up delegation to TechCrunch Disrupt SF 2018

(Hong Kong, 5 September 2018) - Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (“HKSTP”) is leading an expanded force of 14 start-ups to TechCrunch Disrupt SF 2018 in San Francisco, the United States. The line-up is nearly twice the size of last year’s delegation and it is tangible evidence that HKSTP’s significantly increased investment in R&D is paying off, with a host of commercially-viable solutions to be showcased at the global event. 

The innovative solutions confirm that HKSTP’s strategic focus on the technology platforms of artificial intelligence and robotics, smart city, biotechnology and healthy ageing is also bearing fruit. They include AI-powered solutions for optimising investment strategies, restaurant bookings and fashion buying experiences, as well as robotics for construction and elderly care. There are biomedical innovations such as a saliva-based self-testing solution and wearables for physical and mental wellness monitoring. Smart city applications include technologies to reduce fleet driver accidents, improve logistics for e-commerce and help children and parents stay connected. 

The winner of HKSTP’s 2017 Elevator Pitch Competition, Cathay Photonics, which impressed judges with its sapphire-based, ultra-hard and scratch-proof thin film for electronic devices, is also part of the delegation to Disrupt SF 2018.

HKSTP is the city’s leading incubator and nurture base. Its incubation programmes are among the most comprehensive in the region, covering biotechnology, IoT, FinTech, robotics and electronics. The programmes offer a complete roadmap for start-ups, from pre-incubation to go-to-market, nurturing and supporting start-ups at different stages.

“Taking Hong Kong start-ups overseas to promote their R&D results and connect them with international counterparts and investors at major global events is a key initiative of HKSTP,” said Albert Wong, Chief Executive Officer of HKSTP. “The technologies from our 14 start-ups demonstrate that Hong Kong Science Park is a globally competitive base where disruptive ideas have room to grow and take hold.”

“As well as showcasing the R&D results of the start-ups, we’re keen to impress upon disruptors from around the world that Hong Kong is committed to supporting innovators who have outside-the-box ideas. With the recent HK$10 billion boost in government funding to expand the city’s technology R&D infrastructure and support services, HKSTP is ready to welcome innovators and investors to connect with Hong Kong’s vibrant innovation and technology ecosystem and tap opportunities in the Greater Bay Area encompassing 11 dynamic cities in southern China.”

To make the most of the trip, the Hong Kong start-ups also joined a day-long Hong Kong Technology Mission to San Francisco and Silicon Valley on September 4, prior to the start of TechCrunch Disrupt SF 2018 on September 5. The start-ups and their innovations include: