Hong Kong Techathon+ 2025: Breaking barriers; nurturing innovation

Hong Kong Techathon+ 2025, co-organized by the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP) and 13 local tertiary institutions, concluded successfully, marking its ninth edition as a global platform for innovation.

This year’s event set a new benchmark, drawing over 1,800 innovators from Hong Kong and around the world. Over 380 teams, including 40 international groups from Australia, the United States, mainland China, Portugal, Brazil, and Asia-Pacific countries and regions, gathered to showcase groundbreaking ideas and collaborative solutions.

For the second consecutive year, Hong Kong Techathon+ welcomed non-local tech talents, with participation from leading institutions like the University of California, San Diego from the US, National University of Singapore, Chulalongkorn University in Thailand, and the University of Queensland in Australia. These participants not only competed but also deepened their understanding of Hong Kong’s thriving innovation ecosystem and its strategic role within the Greater Bay Area.

The competition focused on four pivotal themes: AI and data science; sustainability and ESG; digital economy; and smart cities. Participants were tasked with developing actionable solutions to address contemporary global challenges.

Winning teams earned direct admission into HKSTP’s Ideation Programme and eligible for various incubation support programmes from co-organisers and partners, to turn concepts into market ready solutions.

Derek Chim, Head of Startup Ecosystem and Development of HKSTP, summarized their support based on four characters: FUEL. He explained, “F stands for Forward. We provide a structured process where teams set milestones every six months, assess their progress, address challenges, and seek guidance. This proactive approach ensures we’re more than administrators—we actively support their growth with a clear mechanism in place.”

“U stands for Upskilling with expert and investor support. E represents Exposure opportunities, where we fund and connect teams to international markets. Lastly, L signifies Linking to the ecosystem, with over 300 annual events at HKSTP offering valuable networking and collaboration opportunities,” Chim concluded.

Renato Gomes, founder and president of AI company Pix Force, won the Silver Award in the “Non-local University Group” in the “AI & Digital Economy” category. He praised this competition as the best event he had participated globally, as HKSTP has managed to bring together a diverse group of high-caliber contestants.

“AI technology is faster, more precise and cost-effective than humans in image recognition and interpretation,” he said. “Our company is collaborating with Hong Kong enterprises, planning to establish a branch in Hong Kong, and is negotiating its first contract in the city.”

Gomes noted that the Hong Kong market has unique advantages, including ease of setting up operations and abundant talent resources. “Our initial plan is to form a local two-person team, combining R&D and market development personnel. With business success and revenue growth, there are plans to reinvest and expand the team,” he said.

Hong Kong Techathon+ 2025 has reaffirmed its status as a melting pot of ideas, cultures, and cutting-edge technologies. By connecting diverse talents and fostering entrepreneurial growth, the event plays a crucial role in solidifying Hong Kong’s reputation as an innovation powerhouse, bridging global expertise with local opportunities.