The Global Fast Track (GFT) 2025 is the eighth edition of an international programme designed to help FinTech and innovative technology companies expand into Asia through Hong Kong. As part of Hong Kong FinTech Week x StartmeupHK Festival 2025, the initiative offers direct access to investors, corporates, regulators, and global networks. The programme combines one-on-one business matchmaking, mentorship, and a pitching competition to support growth and market entry strategies.
Programme Overview
- Format: Hybrid programme featuring 1-2-1 meetings, mentorship, consultations, and a pitching competition
- Application Deadline: 21 September 2025
- Pitching Competition:
- Semi-finals on 3 November 2025
- Grand Finale on 4 November 2025 at Hong Kong FinTech Week
- Organisers: InvestHK, Hong Kong FinTech Week, StartmeupHK Festival, and Finoverse
- Programme Reach: 35,000+ FinTech leaders, 1,000+ companies supported from over 50 countries
- Cost: No application fee
Eligibility
- Open to companies with existing solutions aligned with featured tracks
- Pitching competition applicants must:
- Have at least $250,000 annual recurring revenue or the same in investment secured
- Be planning expansion into Asia within 24 months
- Companies of all sizes, stages, and geographies may apply, from Angel to Series D
Featured Tracks
FinTech
- Payments & Digital Finance
- Embedded Finance
- RegTech & SupTech
- WealthTech & Capital Markets
- Cybersecurity & Fraud Detection
Artificial Intelligence
- Responsible AI Governance
- Generative AI & LLM
- Agentic AI & Autonomous Systems
- Machine Learning & Analytical AI
- AI-Driven Industry Change
Green Tech
- Sustainability & Green Investing
- Carbon Capture & Offsetting
- ClimateTech & Conservation
- Social Enterprise
- PropTech
Blockchain & Digital Assets
- Real-World Asset Tokenization
- Institutional & Enterprise Blockchain
- DeFi & DAO
- Web3 & Gaming Economies
- CBDC & Stablecoins
InsurTech & HealthTech
- Devices & Diagnostics
- On-Demand Insurance
- FemTech & Elderly Health 2.0
- Lifestyle & Longevity
- Insurance Model Innovation
Innovation and Technology
- Advanced Technology
- Robotics & Manufacturing
- Low-Altitude & Space Commercialisation
- BioTech & FoodTech Frontiers
- Supply Chain Management
Benefits for Participants
- Investor and Corporate Access: Connect with 120+ investors and corporates across Asia and beyond
- Matchmaking: Year-round 1-2-1 business matchmaking tailored to corporate and investor needs
- Mentorship: Industry experts and GFT alumni provide feedback and strategy support
- Exposure: Pitching opportunities on stage at Hong Kong FinTech Week
- Networking: Complimentary passes to the main conference and extensive international exposure
- Global Network: Access to InvestHK’s international support structure
Judging Criteria
Companies will be assessed on:
- Market opportunity
- Problem/solution fit
- Team and founder background
- Traction and funding to date
- Competitive advantage
- AI implementation and strategy
Timeline of Key Dates
- Mid-April – Mid-September 2025: Application period
- 21 September 2025: Application deadline
- End September 2025: Shortlist announcement
- 3 November 2025: Semi-final pitching at Hong Kong FinTech Week
- 4 November 2025: Grand Finale at Hong Kong FinTech Week
- May onwards: Matchmaking, alumni activities, and 1-2-1 meetings
Global Fast Track 2025 provides a pathway for FinTech and technology innovators to scale in Asia through Hong Kong’s international hub. By combining matchmaking, mentorship, pitching opportunities, and global exposure, the programme creates opportunities for startups to connect with corporates, investors, and regulators while advancing their expansion strategies in one of the world’s leading financial centres.