Ricoh Hong Kong Drives AI Development in Hong Kong with InnoAI Program

Ricoh Hong Kong has launched the Ricoh InnoAI Program and established the Ricoh InnoAI Center at Cyberport, with the goal of supporting AI startups and enhancing Hong Kong's position as a global innovation hub.

As Hong Kong navigates its AI application development landscape, many small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) face significant challenges, including a lack of technical resources and unclear pathways to commercialization. In response to these pain points, Ricoh has introduced this initiative to assist these businesses in overcoming obstacles and embracing AI technologies.

In the launch ceremony, Kei Uesugi, Managing Director of Ricoh Asia Pacific, stated, "We believe that the Ricoh InnoAI Program will foster technological innovation and drive economic growth across various industries in Hong Kong." The Ricoh InnoAI Center is set to become an international research hub for AI, led by Chief Scientist Dr. Dong Bin. 

Supported by initial funding exceeding HK$ 50 million, the program aims to provide startups with advanced AI resources, commercialization opportunities, and business development assistance. Key components include the recruitment of 20 developers, access to cutting-edge AI tools, and a dedicated sales team to promote products to approximately 30,000 corporate clients.

Simon Chan Sai-ming, Chairman of Hong Kong Cyberport Management Company Limited, emphasized, “Cyberport is home to its AI Supercomputing Centre, driving AI innovation and empowering digital transformation across various industries.” The collaboration with Ricoh will enhance Cyberport's AI ecosystem, benefiting over 350 startups focused on AI and data science.

In her speech, Ms. Cheong Man Lei, Lillian, JP, Under Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, remarked, "In the rolling tide of AI, Hong Kong has not been absent. On the contrary, Hong Kong has prepared itself early and is also actively aligning with the national 'AI+' initiative, driving AI development through comprehensive policies." 

The Ricoh InnoAI Program will offer comprehensive technical and business development support, including mentoring and strategic partnerships, to help participating companies flourish. By fostering collaboration, this initiative aims to stimulate the growth of AI startups and contribute to Hong Kong's emergence as a leading global hub for AI and innovation technologies.