How to Apply for the Innovation & Technology Fund (ITF) in Hong Kong? | ITF Hong Kong Application Guide 2025
- Derek Lee
- Sep 30
- 5 min read
Updated: Oct 19
Why ITF Matters for Startups in Hong Kong?
Hong Kong’s Innovation & Technology Fund (ITF) is one of the most powerful tools for startups and SMEs seeking to grow through research and development. It provides critical financial support for hiring research staff and carrying out projects that strengthen innovation capacity. For founders entering Hong Kong, understanding the ITF is essential, but navigating the application process can be daunting without expert guidance.
This article outlines what ITF is, who can apply, the general steps in the process, and common pitfalls to avoid. The ITF consists of several sub schemes. For illustration, we highlight the Research Talent Hub (RTH) scheme in this article while noting that other schemes such as the Enterprise Support Scheme (ESS) are also available.
As of April 2025, over 78,700 projects have been approved under ITF with total funding commitments of HKD 53.1 billion. Within RTH specifically, more than 15,000 projects have been funded with HKD 8.04 billion approved. These figures underline the scale of support available through ITF. We share enough insights to help you get started, but since every applicant has different project specialties and angles, tailored advisory through consultation is needed to address individual cases effectively.
Article Outline
What is the Innovation & Technology Fund (ITF)?
Who is Eligible to Apply for ITF?
Step by Step Application Process
Documents and Requirements Checklist
Common Mistakes to Avoid in ITF Applications
How Long Does the ITF Approval Take?
How to Maximise Your Chance to Get the Funding?
Conclusion
Related Reads
FAQs
1. What is the Innovation & Technology Fund (ITF)?
The ITF is a government backed scheme designed to promote innovation, technology development, and talent training in Hong Kong. It supports enterprises in hiring research staff and conducting applied R&D projects.
Key highlights:
Overseen by the Innovation and Technology Commission (ITC).
Covers different sub programmes, including Research Talent Hub (RTH) for hiring research staff.
Funding can cover salaries of qualified research staff, subject to salary caps.
Source: RTH ITF Guide (Sep 2024)
Maximum Subsidy Background (Illustration)
For illustration, we use the Research Talent Hub (RTH) scheme under the ITF. Note that ITF also covers other schemes such as ESS, but here we highlight RTH as an example. Under the Research Talent Hub scheme, a company can engage up to four research staff members at any given time within a 36 month project period. The maximum subsidy available is equivalent to 144 months of salary support. Based on the latest caps, this translates to:
Candidate Type | Monthly Cap | Maximum Subsidy (144 months) |
PhD | HKD 35,000 | HKD 5.04 million |
Master’s degree | HKD 23,000 | HKD 3.31 million |
Bachelor’s degree | HKD 20,000 | HKD 2.88 million |
Note: The above information is subject to the latest release and discretion of the RTH scheme.
This structure makes ITF a substantial resource for companies planning to grow through research talent hiring.
2. Who is Eligible to Apply for ITF?
Eligibility depends on the chosen ITF programme. Generally, applicants must:
Be a registered company in Hong Kong.
Undertake R&D related work or innovation driven projects.
Commit to hiring eligible research staff (degree holders in STEM disciplines).
Show capacity to manage and supervise research projects.
Certain categories, such as NGOs and public research institutions, may also be eligible depending on the scheme.
3. Step by Step Application Process (Overview)
The ITF application process typically involves:
Identify the right ITF sub programme (for example RTH for hiring research staff).
Prepare an application form with project details, budget, and staff requirements.
Submit through the ITF online system to the Innovation and Technology Commission.
Evaluation and vetting by ITC officers and external experts.
Approval and funding agreement signed with ITC.
Note: This is an overview. A successful application requires tailoring project descriptions, aligning with ITC’s objectives, and providing strong justification, which goes beyond what we disclose here.
4. Documents and Requirements Checklist
At a high level, applicants should prepare:
Business registration and company details.
Project proposal (objectives, deliverables, R&D focus).
CVs of proposed research staff.
Budget estimates (salary breakdown, allowable costs).
Supporting documents (academic qualifications, project timeline).
For consultation, we provide guidance on how to structure these documents effectively, but since every applicant’s project has different specialties and angles, tailored advisory is necessary. Full documentation preparation or submission is not included within consultation scope.
5. Common Mistakes to Avoid in ITF Applications
Vague project scope:
Applications without clear objectives are often rejected.
Misaligned deliverables:
Proposed outcomes must match ITC’s funding priorities.
Incomplete documentation:
Missing attachments or inconsistent data can delay approval.
Overestimating budgets:
Exceeding salary caps or including ineligible costs risks rejection.
6. How Long Does the ITF Approval Take?
Initial vetting:
usually 1 to 2 months.
Full approval:
typically 3 to 6 months depending on project complexity.
Disbursement:
funding is released in tranches after project milestones are confirmed.
Timelines vary, so applicants should plan well ahead of hiring schedules.
7. How to Maximise Your Chance to Get the Funding
To unlock the millions available under ITF, applicants must go beyond filling forms. Success depends on:
Carefully assessing eligibility before committing resources.
Avoiding mistakes that cause delays or rejections.
Structuring project descriptions to align with ITC’s funding priorities.
Clarifying budgeting and staff planning within ITF guidelines to meet salary cap rules.
Mini Case Example:
A local biotech SME engaged us to review their ITF readiness. Through consultation, we identified gaps in their project proposal and aligned their deliverables with ITC expectations. The result was a successful approval to hire two PhD researchers under the RTH scheme, unlocking over HKD 2 million in subsidies. While every case is different, this illustrates how tailored advisory can significantly increase chances of success.
Next Step:
Book a FREE consultation with Mr. Discovery to maximise your chance of securing ITF funding.
Start preparing today and do not miss millions in potential subsidies before deadlines close and opportunities are no longer available. Mr. Discovery acts as the key partner to unlock access to funding opportunities in Hong Kong.
For full application management, ask about our extended project services.
8. Conclusion
The Innovation & Technology Fund (ITF) represents a major opportunity for startups and SMEs in Hong Kong to secure government support for R&D. By understanding the basics of eligibility, documentation, and process, founders can start preparing with confidence.
However, success depends on precise alignment with ITC objectives and disciplined preparation, areas where expert consultation adds real value. As of April 2025, ITF had supported more than 78,700 projects with HKD 53.1 billion committed in funding, including over 15,000 RTH projects with HKD 8.04 billion approved. These figures highlight the substantial opportunity available for companies that approach the application process strategically.
Final CTA: Need help preparing for ITF? Book a FREE consultation with Mr. Discovery TODAY to start your funding journey the right way. Do not miss millions in potential subsidies before deadlines close and opportunities are no longer available.
9. Related Reads
Hong Kong Startup Funding Guide 2025
Cyberport vs HKSTP: Which is Right for Your Startup?
BUD Fund Case Studies (upcoming)
Hong Kong Go to Market Strategy 2025
10. FAQs on ITF in Hong Kong
Q1: What does ITF cover?
It mainly covers salaries of eligible research staff and related R&D project expenses, subject to salary caps.
Q2: Who can apply for ITF?
Registered Hong Kong companies, institutions, and eligible organisations involved in R&D or innovation driven projects.
Q3: How long does ITF approval take?
On average, 3 to 6 months depending on project complexity and ITC’s vetting process.
Q4: Does consultation include full application preparation?
No. Consultation provides strategic guidance, but full documentation preparation, submission, and project management are separate services.
Q5: How can I maximise my chance of securing ITF funding?
By assessing eligibility early, avoiding common mistakes, aligning project descriptions with ITC funding priorities, and ensuring budgets comply with salary caps. Tailored consultation can significantly increase the likelihood of approval and unlock millions in potential subsidies.