The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) has partnered with GPTX Investment Management Limited (GPTX), a leading digital investment firm based in Hong Kong, to promote innovation and entrepreneurship in sectors such as artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, and healthcare. This collaboration, known as the UniVenture Program, will focus on nurturing student-led startups by providing essential resources, including investment support, mentorship, and opportunities for industry networking.
Designed to enhance HKUST’s existing innovation ecosystem, UniVenture reflects a dual emphasis on education and venture capital. The program establishes a comprehensive entrepreneurship education and incubation pathway that integrates classroom learning with real-world project development and commercialization. Co-founded by HKUST’s Division of Integrative Systems and Design (ISD) and the Entrepreneurship Center, UniVenture aims to empower students in their entrepreneurial pursuits.
Initially, the program will cater to graduates of HKUST’s MPhil in Technology Innovation and Entrepreneurship (TIE). However, it plans to expand its reach to all student-led technology startups at the university in upcoming phases. The MPhil in TIE, part of the ISD Division, is designed to cultivate leaders who can merge innovative research with entrepreneurial ventures. Graduates of this program will be well-prepared to make meaningful contributions to the global innovation landscape.
Startups selected for the UniVenture Program will benefit from seed funding, with a minimum of HKD $750,000 allocated for equity investments in each startup. GPTX will play a crucial role in this initiative, leveraging its expertise in digital investments and extensive networks to amplify the program’s impact. Mentorship sessions will also be organized, connecting student entrepreneurs with industry leaders to refine their fundraising strategies and scaling plans.
HKUST Provost Prof. GUO Yike expressed appreciation for GPTX’s commitment to supporting the university’s entrepreneurial spirit. He stated, “Since 1999, HKUST has been dedicated to sowing and nurturing the seeds of Hong Kong’s entrepreneurial spirit. The success of our innovation ecosystem owes much to partners like GPTX, which helps translate research outcomes into real-world applications, address market needs, and empower startups to enter the global market.”
Echoing this sentiment, GPTX Investment Management Limited CEO Ms. Ophelia GAO highlighted the alignment of the UniVenture Program with GPTX’s strategic priorities. She noted, “As a top research-oriented university in Asia, the HKUST UniVenture Program aims to establish a high-quality platform that facilitates the transition of students’ technological entrepreneurship projects from concept to realization.” Ms. Gao also emphasized GPTX’s extensive experience in industrial investment and capital operation, which will support startups throughout their journey.
The collaboration signifies a strategic alignment of strengths, allowing both institutions to achieve resource synergy. HKUST has a long-standing commitment to entrepreneurship, having established its Entrepreneurship Center 26 years ago and initiated the One Million Dollar Entrepreneurship Competition. These efforts, along with initiatives such as the Entrepreneurship Fund (E-Fund) and the Founders’ Club, illustrate HKUST’s dedication to fostering a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem.
By investing in both financial resources and multidisciplinary educational programs like the TIE, HKUST aims to create an environment where groundbreaking research translates into tangible outcomes. This approach prepares the next generation of technology leaders and entrepreneurs to make significant impacts not only in Hong Kong but also throughout the Greater Bay Area and beyond.
In summary, the partnership between HKUST and GPTX through the UniVenture Program marks an important step forward in driving innovation and entrepreneurship in critical fields. With a focus on student empowerment and real-world application, both organizations are set to contribute significantly to the technological advancements and economic growth of the region.
