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HKPC to launch One-Stop, Cross Business & Technology “InnoPreneur Network”with Successful Debut of “InnoPreneur Forum” on Food Tech Development

(Hong Kong, 26 March 2021) The Hong Kong Productivity Council (HKPC) will launch a new O2O (online-to-offline) one-stop SME and startup platform, “InnoPreneur Network”, in April, to share on the latest technology applications and strategies on technological transformation and commercialisation of startup solutions with a resourceful network of manufacturers, industry advisors and government funding assistance. A series of “InnoPreneur Forum” will also be held in conjunction to introduce new technology trends in different industry sectors and facilitate exchanges between SMEs and startups to help them foster new business ties, adapt to industry cultures and explore new market opportunities.

The “InnoPreneur Forum” made its successful debut today, with the theme of “FoodTech – Transformation of Local Brands.” A panel of experts shed light on the application of technology in the local food supply market and its assistance in modernising traditional brands. Participants also picked up useful tips from HKPC technical team on the latest food manufacturing technologies to enhance productivity and competitiveness. 

Mr Mohamed Butt, Executive Director of HKPC, said in his welcoming address, “SMEs is an integral part of the Hong Kong economy, while startups are regarded as the engine for driving economic growth. Innovative technology is critical in making these two forces the locomotive for the advancement of the local economy.”

He continued, “This new ‘InnoPreneur Network’ is a one-stop, cross-business, cross-network and cross-technology platform, aiming to promote exchanges among different industry sectors on new technology applications, problems and innovative ideas due to technology changes, as well as entrepreneurial stories. The platform has been well-supported by local chambers of commerce and industry consultants. Through concreted efforts in bringing SMEs and startups together, along with HKPC’s all-round support, this platform can certainly offer a powerful safeguard for the business expansion of SMEs and startups, also advancing Hong Kong’s productivity and making enterprises smarter.”

Initiated by HKPC, this brand new “InnoPreneur Network” draws upon the rich experience of HKPC’s “Inno Space” in breeding and supporting startups, as well as the edges of “SME One” in matching the appropriate Government’s funding schemes and other support measures for SMEs. Making use of O2O medium, the platform enables SMEs to get acquainted with different types of startups for strengthening mutual ties, exchanging technologies and expanding businesses. It will also bring together the startup communities and the traditional manufacturers, enabling both sides to jointly explore new business collaboration opportunities on one hand and helping the startup communities to look for manufacturing partners on the other.

In terms of online services, “InnoPreneur Network” will host a series of thematic webinars and online exhibitions, covering technology applications, marketing, funding schemes, etc., to keep enterprises abreast of latest information and facilitate exchanges between startups and SMEs. Also, “eClinics” will feature different industry strategic partners and offer one-on-one consultation services relating to technology and operation, from manufacturer support, industry advisors, government funding, technology solutions to feature topics for enterprises. Moreover, “eBooths” will be available for startups free-of-charge to promote their business to SMEs and expand their market networks. To coincide with the “FoodTech – Transformation of Local Brands” forum, a “FoodTech” themed online exhibition will run from April to July. Startups in food manufacturing or with the related technology are welcome to apply for a free eBooth: http://u.hkpc.org/InnoPreneurForum

As for offline services, “InnoPreneur Network” will hold seminars on technologies of different industries regularly to keep enterprises abreast of the latest development and market trend. A variety of training courses will also be on offer for enterprises to upskill themselves and enhance market competitiveness, while study missions and seminars on the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and the emerging Association of Southeast Asian Nations markets will help them grasp the development opportunities from potential markets, also intensifying exchanges and cooperation, as well as tapping into a wider market.

For more information about the “InnoPreneur Network”, please contact HKPC’s Ms Ho on +852 2788 5792.

- Ends -

Addressing the welcoming remarks at the “InnoPreneur Forum”, Mr Mohamed Butt, Executive Director of HKPC, said the new ‘InnoPreneur Network’ is a one-stop, cross-business, cross-network and cross-technology platform, aiming to promote exchanges among different industry sectors on new technology applications, problems and innovative ideas due to technology changes, as well as entrepreneurial stories.Addressing the welcoming remarks at the “InnoPreneur Forum”, Mr Mohamed Butt, Executive Director of HKPC, said the new ‘InnoPreneur Network’ is a one-stop, cross-business, cross-network and cross-technology platform, aiming to promote exchanges among different industry sectors on new technology applications, problems and innovative ideas due to technology changes, as well as entrepreneurial stories.

Mr Mohamed Butt, Executive Director of HKPC (middle) and his teammate took a group photo with the guest speakers.Mr Mohamed Butt, Executive Director of HKPC (middle) and his teammate took a group photo with the guest speakers.

Mr Arist Wong, Founder, Central Kitchen One Ltd (first from left), Mr Raymond Mak, Co-founder & CEO Farmacy Hong Kong (second from left), Mr Pius Chan, Managing Director, Tai Po Chun Hing (middle) and Mr Jeff Law, Founder, Topsoya (second from right) shared views on how technology has transformed the food industry in Hong Kong, with Dr Toa Charm, Founder and Chairman, Dr. Charm & Co. as moderator (first from right).Mr Arist Wong, Founder, Central Kitchen One Ltd (first from left), Mr Raymond Mak, Co-founder & CEO Farmacy Hong Kong (second from left), Mr Pius Chan, Managing Director, Tai Po Chun Hing (middle) and Mr Jeff Law, Founder, Topsoya (second from right) shared views on how technology has transformed the food industry in Hong Kong, with Dr Toa Charm, Founder and Chairman, Dr. Charm & Co. as moderator (first from right).