The Cyberport Incubation Programme (CIP), a flagship initiative, is designed to support digital technology startups through a comprehensive 24-month journey. The program aims to assist entrepreneurs in transforming promising solutions into market-ready products, establishing viable companies, securing strategic investments, and expanding their market presence both within Hong Kong and internationally. It provides a structured pathway for growth, including a specific track for Smart-Living Start-ups (CIP-SLS), which focuses on solutions related to daily living such as e-commerce, education, health, and mobility.
Programme Benefits
• Financial Assistance: Receive up to HK$500,000 in financial support.
• Network Access: Gain entry to the Cyberport Investors Network, Cyberport Enterprise Network, Cyberport Technology Network, Cyberport Professional Services Network, and Cyberport Mentorship Services.
• Comprehensive Training: Access guidance tailored to various start-up stages, from prototype development and market validation to product commercialisation and global expansion.
• Growth Resources: Benefit from business matching, exhibition opportunities, nominations for industry awards, participation in overseas trade shows, and tech-focused recruitment events.
• Workspace and Facilities: On-site incubatees receive rent-free workspace and complimentary access to Cyberport facilities.
Eligibility Criteria
• Company Status: Must be a registered digital tech company limited by shares and incorporated in Hong Kong for less than 7 years upon the application deadline, or be in the process of incorporation.
• Business Plan: A viable business plan with a product or solution ready for marketing within 12-18 months is required.
• Founder Control: Founders must collectively hold at least 51% of the company shares or have absolute control.
• Local Presence: All incubatees must maintain a local presence with at least one authorized representative physically working in Hong Kong during the incubation period.
Funding and Additional Support
• Financial Support: Participants receive up to HK$500,000. Upon graduation, incubatees must submit an Audited Financial Statement or Agreed-Upon Procedures Report showing a minimum expense of HK$400,000 on eligible items such as equipment, training, marketing, professional services, staffing, and business operations.
• Workspace: On-site incubatees are provided with rent-free working space.
• Facility Access: Free use of Cyberport’s shared meeting rooms, conference rooms, co-working spaces, and other facilities is included.
• Alternative Route: Companies not yet incorporated may consider the Cyberport Creative Micro Fund (CCMF) as a potential starting point before joining the Incubation Programme.
Application and Vetting Process
• Step 1 - Profile and Application: First-time users must register and complete a profile. Applicants then select the programme and fill out the application form step-by-step via the Cyberport Entrepreneurship Management System.
• Step 2 - Initial Screening: Cyberport conducts an initial screening to ensure all applications meet the eligibility criteria.
• Step 3 - Vetting: An independent vetting team evaluates the applications after the deadline. Shortlisted applicants are notified by email.
• Step 4 - Presentation Session: Shortlisted candidates are invited to present their application to the vetting panel, followed by a Q&A session. This can be held physically at Cyberport or online.
• Step 5 - Result Announcement: Final selection results are announced by email.
Application Intakes
• June 2026 Intake: Online Application Deadline is 1 Apr 2026, with the Vetting & Presentation Session in May 2026 and Result Announcement in June 2026.
• October 2026 Intake: Online Application Deadline is 3 Aug 2026, with the Vetting & Presentation Session in September 2026 and Result Announcement in October 2026.
• February 2027 Intake: Online Application Deadline is 1 Dec 2026, with the Vetting & Presentation Session in January 2027 and Result Announcement in February 2027.
Notable Alumni
The programme has supported numerous innovative companies that have achieved significant success. Notable graduates include GOGOX, Klook, Snapask, Shopline, Pakpobox, Quantifeed, OneDegree, Bowtie, Pickupp, EventX, Farmacy, Rice Robotics, and Buyandship. Collectively, incubatees have won over 1600 awards and created more than 530 intellectual property rights.
For entrepreneurs and founding teams looking to accelerate their growth, the Cyberport Incubation Programme offers a structured and supportive environment. Interested parties are encouraged to review the detailed application guides and notes. To gain deeper insights, prospective applicants can register for the online Programme Information & Sharing Session to learn more about how the programme can help them achieve their goals.